By Shreya Kachroo
When luxury powerhouse Prada made models walk the ramp in Kohlapuri chappals – a traditional Indian craft protected by a Geographical Indication (GI) tag — it created quite a stir. It also reignited a long-standing conversation about the need to preserve and credit India’s artisanal heritage. While the controversy brought Kohlapuris into the spotlight, they’re far from the only fashion treasure India holds. Under legal protection that too! From centuries-old weaving traditions to iconic printing techniques, several Indian fashion crafts proudly carry GI tags, ensuring their authenticity and origin are legally recognized and preserved. Here are 8 Indian crafts that proudly carry the GI Tag of authenticity: Banarasi SareeWhere: Uttar Pradesh GI Tag Year: 2009 With it’s rich texture, intricate gold and silver zari work and Mughal-inspired motifs, Banarasi sarees are a World-famous Indian staple that are simply timeless. Kanchipuram Saree Where: Tamil Nadu GI Tag Year: 2005-2006 Also called the ‘queen of sarees’, Kanjeevaram drapes are made with pure mulberry silk and woven with a technique that keeps the body and border distinctly separate — making them durable and elegant. Chanderi Fabric Where: Madhya Pradesh GI Tag Year: 2005 Chanderi is a lightweight and sheer fabric that is fiercely loved for its transparency and luxurious feel. It is soft, regal and can be made using silk, cotton or zari. Muga Silk Where: Assam GI Tag Year: 2006 An Assam exclusive, Muga silk is considered one of the rarest and most durable silks in the world. Its natural golden tint gets richer with age, making it a symbol of Indian and Assamese pride. Sambalpuri Bandha Saree & Fabrics Where: Odisha GI Tag Year: 2012 These handwoven masterpieces incorporate a resist-dyeing technique where both the warp and weft are tie-dyed before weaving. They are a blank canvas for culture and precision to shine through. Bhagalpur Silk (Tussar Silk) Where: Bihar GI Tag Year: 2012 A famed fabric in India, Bhagalpur silk is valued for its unique texture and lightweight nature. It is a true testament to India’s deep textile heritage. Bagru Hand-block Print Where: Rajasthan GI Tag Year: 2011 This centuries-old printing technique uses wooden blocks and natural dyes to create earthy, botanical patterns. These prints are beloved for their rustic aesthetic and eco-conscious process.