Assam’s traditionally woven handloom product ‘gamosa’ with its distinctive red border and floral motifs has earned the geographical indications (GI) recognition. The product will now get legal protection to prevent its unauthorised use. The application for GI tag was filed by the Institute of Handicraft Development of Golaghat district in October 16, 2017.
The Geographical Indication Registry journal of October 24 said: “Gamosa is a traditional textile of Assam. It bears great significance for the people of Assam. Gamosa is one of the unique identities of Assamese society. It is a symbol of Assamese culture. This is a handloom product which has high esteem and wide usage in Assamese culture. In earlier times ‘Gamosa’ was also known as ‘Phali’. Furthermore, as it was used to wipe face, that is why it was also known as ‘Mukhosa’.”
There are nine different types of gamosas woven in the state, Indian media reports cited the journal as saying.
