GI Products of Madhya Pradesh

About Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh lies in the heart of India, with the Vindhya and Satpura ranges, the Narmada river and large tracts of forest, including tiger reserves such as Kanha and Bandhavgarh. It is home to tribal communities such as the Gond, Bhil and Baiga, and to historic sites including the Khajuraho temples, Sanchi's stupas and the fort town of Gwalior. Its cultural life mixes central Indian, Rajput and Maratha influences.

Crafts, food and farm traditions

Chanderi fabric is the best-known GI from the state in this catalogue, woven in the town of Chanderi in Ashoknagar district. The state also has other crafts such as Maheshwari weaving, Bagh printing, Gond painting and Dhokra metalwork, which reflect both royal and tribal traditions. Many of these are the work of small communities with generations of expertise.

Visiting and buying

For Madhya Pradesh products, look for the state's Mrignayani emporia and weavers' cooperatives in Chanderi and Maheshwar, and ask for handloom labels. This page lists the Madhya Pradesh products in this catalogue, along with a guide to recognising real Chanderi and where to buy it.

Best time to go and practical notes

October to March is the best season, when days are warm and nights cool. Chanderi is a small town in Ashoknagar district, and the nearest major railway hubs include Jhansi and Lalitpur, with Gwalior a larger city to the north. Weavers work from home as well as in cooperative sheds, so visits are easiest through the local handloom office. Summers are extremely hot, and the monsoon can make village roads muddy.

Things to know before you buy

Chanderi comes in pure silk, silk-cotton and cotton versions, and each has a different drape and price. Ask which blend you are buying and check for the handloom mark and the GI label. Woven motifs such as coins, peacocks and small geometric patterns should look crisp on both sides. Wash gently by hand or dry-clean, keep the fabric out of harsh sun, and store it folded in soft cloth.