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Madurkathi Mats

Know about Madurkathi Mats for UPSC Prelims. Key facts on this GI-tagged West Bengal craft, origin, weaving process, and significance.

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Why in News?

  • Madurkathi mats face losses as of Post Covid Market slowdown

About

  • Madurkathi mats, or Madur, are mats woven in West Bengal from a reed called madurkottir, or Madurkathi, a sedge of the family Cyperaceae

  • The mats are woven mainly by weavers of Mahishya caste, and predominantly by women

  • They are made of natural fibres, and are non-conductive and sweat-absorbing

  • These mats are also used for religious purposes

  • In 2018, Indian Patent Office granted the Government of West Bengal a GI Tag for Madurkathi