The Risha Textile of Tripura has recently been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, joining the ranks of other iconic products from the Northeast. This recognition, obtained by the Killa Mahila Cluster of Gomati district promoted by the Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission (TRLM), marks a significant milestone for the traditional tribal attire known as 'Tripura Risa'. Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha expressed his congratulations to all artisans, especially those from the Killa Mahila Cluster, stating that this recognition would undoubtedly help the signature garment gain international recognition.

Risa: Tripura's Signature Garment

Risha Textile is a handwoven cloth that forms an integral part of the traditional attire of Tripura. Primarily used as a female upper garment, its vibrant colors and intricate designs make it a visually striking piece of clothing. Made from natural fibers such as cotton and silk, the yarn is first spun on a traditional spinning wheel before being dyed using natural dyes extracted from plants and trees. The weaver then sets up the loom and begins weaving the fabric, using different techniques and patterns to create the desired design.

The weaving of Risha textiles is done using a loin loom, a portable loom that offers unlimited scope for designs. The weaver sits with the loom, fixing the back strap with her legs on the footrest, which is adjustable for keeping the loom stretched. The weaving process involves a shedding motion, a picking motion, and a beating motion, with the weft being passed from the right side with the right hand using a shuttle and picked with the left hand. The weft is then beaten up by a sword, and the process is repeated to create the desired pattern.

Tripura is home to a rich cultural heritage, with 19 different tribal communities, each with its own unique culture, including dance forms that are famous throughout the country. The main folk dances include the Hozagiri dance of the Reang community, the Garia, Jhum, Maimita, Masak Sumani, and Lebang Boomani dances of the Tripuri community, the Bizu dance of the Chakma community, the Cheraw and Welcome dances of the Lushai community, the Hai-Hak dance of the Malsum community, the Wangla dance of the Garo community, and the Sangraiaka, Chimithang, Padisha, and Abhangma dances of the Mog community, among others.

The Tripuri women wear a dress called Rignai, which reaches just below the knee, and they weave a small piece of cloth called 'Risha' on their loin looms, which they wear on the upper portion of their bodies. Each community has its own traditional musical instruments, such as the Sarinda, Do-Tara, and Khengrong,Khamb (drum), bamboo flute, Lebang among others.

Overall, the recognition of the Risha Textile with the GI tag is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Tripura and its diverse tribal communities.