Assam’s traditional jewellery, known as ‘Axomiya Gohona’, has been awarded the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag, marking a significant milestone in preserving and promoting the state’s rich cultural heritage. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma shared this “golden news” on April 2, 2025, highlighting the importance of this recognition for the state’s artisans and cultural legacy.
The Significance of the GI Tag for Axomiya Gohona
The GI tag is a form of intellectual property protection that identifies a product as originating from a specific geographical location, possessing qualities or a reputation inherent to that region. For Axomiya Gohona, this recognition not only safeguards the authenticity of these traditional ornaments but also enhances their marketability on national and international platforms.
In the 2018-19 budget, the Assam government proposed securing GI tags to protect local artisans and their crafts. The realization of this initiative underscores the government’s commitment to preserving Assam’s cultural heritage. CM Sarma expressed his satisfaction, stating, “I distinctly remember that in the 2018-19 Budget, we had proposed to secure GI tag to protect our artisans. Happy to see these efforts have been realised.”
Craftsmanship and Cultural Significance of Axomiya Gohona
Axomiya Gohona encompasses a range of handcrafted ornaments, including necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings. These pieces are renowned for their intricate designs that reflect Assam’s flora, fauna, musical instruments, and cultural symbols. Common motifs include:
- Birds: Fan-tailed pigeon (Lokaparo) and hawk eagle (Hensorai).
- Musical Instruments: Traditional drum (Dhol) and horn pipe pair (Juripepa).
- Animals: Household lizard (Jethi).
- Cultural Symbols: Assamese headgear (Japi), crescent moon (Jun), and boat (Bena).
These ornaments are typically crafted from high-purity gold (22 carats or above) and silver (92.5% or above), adorned with vibrant gemstones and enamel work. The artisans, known as ‘Sonaris’, employ traditional techniques passed down through generations, ensuring each piece embodies the essence of Assamese culture.
Historical Context and Evolution
The tradition of crafting Axomiya Gohona dates back over a millennium, with references to gold usage in Assam found in classical texts such as the Arthashastra. During the Ahom dynasty, the art of gold ornament manufacturing flourished, supported by the abundant availability of gold dust in the sands of Assam’s rivers, particularly the Subansiri, a tributary of the Brahmaputra. The Sonowal Kacharis, a community historically engaged in gold-washing, played a pivotal role in sourcing this gold, contributing to the prosperity of Assamese jewellery craftsmanship.
Impact on Artisans and the Local Economy
Securing the GI tag for Axomiya Gohona is expected to have a profound impact on the local artisan community and the broader economy. This recognition not only validates the unique skills of Assamese jewellers but also opens up new avenues for economic growth through increased demand and fair pricing. By distinguishing genuine Axomiya Gohona from imitations, the GI tag ensures that artisans receive due recognition and financial benefits for their craftsmanship.
Government Initiatives and Future Prospects
The Assam government’s proactive approach in obtaining GI tags for traditional products demonstrates a strategic effort to preserve and promote the state’s cultural assets. In April 2024, 19 traditional products and crafts of Assam, including ‘Bihu Dhol’, ‘Jaapi’, and several items of the Bodo community, were accorded the GI tag. These efforts not only protect the intellectual property rights of local artisans but also enhance the cultural tourism potential of the region.
Looking ahead, the GI recognition of Axomiya Gohona is poised to boost the jewellery sector in Assam, encouraging younger generations to engage in this traditional craft. It also paves the way for collaborations with designers and markets beyond the state, fostering innovation while staying true to cultural roots.
The awarding of the GI tag to Axomiya Gohona is a landmark achievement in preserving Assam’s rich heritage. It not only honors the meticulous artistry of Assamese jewellers but also ensures that this cultural treasure continues to shine on both national and international stages. As Assam embraces this recognition, it reinforces the importance of safeguarding traditional crafts and the artisans who keep these traditions alive.
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