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RISA TEXTILES

6th March, 2024

RISA TEXTILES

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Context

  • Tripura’s traditional tribal attire, known as "risa," has been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, adding to the state's cultural heritage.
  • Chief Minister of Tripura announced the recognition, highlighting the efforts of the Killa Mahila Cluster of Gomati district promoted by Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission (TRLM).

Details

  • Risa is now being branded under India Handloom, further enhancing its recognition.

Components of Tripura’s Traditional Attire

  • Risa: A handwoven cloth used as a female upper garment, headgear, stole, or a token of respect. It is wrapped around the torso twice.
  • Rignai: Worn as the lower garment, it is similar to the sari of mainland India.
  • Rikutu: Used as a wrap, head covering, or as part of the attire of newly married Tripuri women.

Cultural and Historical Significance

  • The traditional attire has been part of Tripuri culture for centuries, with origins dating back to before the time of the Manikya kings.
  • Risa holds social, religious, and ceremonial significance, being used in events like Risa Sormani for adolescent girls and in religious festivals like Garia Puja.
  • Adolescent Tripuri girls receive their first risa during an event called Risa Sormani, typically at ages 12 to 14.
  • Men also wear risa as a turban during weddings and festivals.

Diversity Across Tribal Communities

  • Risa is prevalent in all 19 indigenous tribal communities of Tripura, with each community having its unique design.
  • The handwoven garment remains an integral part of Tripuri households, reflecting the rich cultural diversity of the region.

Garia Puja Festival

  • Garia Puja is primarily a harvest festival celebrated by ethnic tribes such as Tripuris and Reangs.
  • Held on the last day of the Chaitra month, it marks the culmination of the agricultural season.
  • The festival includes the Garia dance, a traditional performance that adds vibrancy to the celebrations.

GI Tags in Tripura

  • Tripura Queen Apples (agricultural)

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Consider the following statements in reference to Risa textiles:

1. The traditional attire has origins dating back to before the time of the Mauryan kings.

2. It is used as a wrap, head covering, or as part of the attire of newly married Tripuri women.

Which of the above statements is/are incorrect?

a.1 only

b.2 only

c.Both 1 and 2

d.Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: c