Meetei bell metal craft 'Senga' poised for GI tag
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, May 10 2024: With the state government initiating process to obtain Geographical Indication (GI) tag for the Meetei's indigenous bell metal craft "Senga", used in decoration and ceremonies and relatively unfamiliar to the present generation, the indigenous product is likely to receive the GI tag soon, informed handloom and handicrafts director K Lamlee.

K Lamlee revealed the development during the release function of the book titled "Bell-Metal Crafts in Manipur" written by Mutua Bahadur, held at the conference hall of the directorate of Handloom and Handicrafts in Lamphelpat, on Friday.

In his review of the book, K Lamlee also discussed the evolution of bell-metal craft in the state, as well as its current status.

He said that producing a book on bell-metal craft could contribute significantly to revive the endangered art form.

Moreover, the handloom and handicraft department is actively pursuing the GI tag for "Senga" and hopefully will be achieved very soon.

Lamlee further noted that "Senga" is predominantly used in wedding ceremonies but is relatively unknown to the present generation.

Its historical significance dates back to the era of the Kings when it was widely used.

Recognising its cultural and ceremonial importance, the government is striving to secure the GI tag for "Senga".

In Assam, a similar metal craft named "Horai" is also widely used and gifted as presents to eminent persons during major events.

This practice has contributed to the increasing community of artisans in Assam engaged in metal crafting.

Likewise, we also need to promote "Sanga", K Lamlee stressed while adding that since written documents on "Senga" is needed to get GI tag, the book released today will certainly serve as a supporting document in the GI tagging process.

Speaking as guest of honour, Handloom and Handicrafts joint director Elangbam Jiten said that the department has been providing financial assistance to handicrafts artisans who had received awards under modernisation scheme since 2008-09 to help them expand their business and increase their source of income.

Initially, over a hundred artisans received this assistance, but presently, the number has dwindled significantly to only 8-9.He also said that a number of items have been flooding in the state from outside and replacing the products of the state due to their lower price.

To safeguard and promote local artisans, it is necessary to capture markets beyond the state borders.

This necessitates improved equipment, workspace, and a deeper appreciation for the value of time.

Presided over by NID designer Sukumar Haobam, the function was also attended by crafts state awardee in crafts Aheibam Gopeshwar as guest of honour.

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