PANAJI
The Goa government has initiated the process of securing a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for the State's traditional crochet craft, seeking recognition and protection for a distinctive handicraft practised by Goan women for generations.
The Department of Science, Technology and Waste Management (DST&WM), has filed an application on November 6, for a GI tag for Goa Crochet Crafts, highlighting its cultural significance, traditional craftsmanship and contribution to women's livelihoods.
The application highlights crochet as a distinctive Goan handicraft in which women artisans create intricate lace-like fabrics and decorative products entirely by hand using a single hook and cotton threads. The products include tablecloths, bedspreads, pillow covers, door hangings, garments, bags, toys and other ornamental accessories.
“The craft has become an integral part of Goan households and community life, with products ranging from table cloths, bedspreads, pillow covers, and garments to accessories and ornamental pieces. Its uniqueness lies in the fine detailing durability, and motifs that reflect Goan cultural identity,” the application stated.
A significant aspect of the craft is its deep-rooted association with Goan wedding traditions. Crochet articles traditionally form an important part of a bride's wedding trousseau, locally known as dennem or vazze. These handmade pieces, often numbering between eight and 20, are prepared by the bride or gifted by mothers, grandmothers and other family members, reflecting generations of inherited skill and craftsmanship.
The application states that Goan crochet is distinguished by its intricate floral, geometric and lace-like motifs, which are often memorised and improvised by artisans rather than reproduced from standard patterns. The craft's uniqueness lies in its combination of traditional designs, fine detailing and cultural symbolism.
Traditionally practised within households for domestic use, crochet has gradually evolved into a source of livelihood for women. Artisans now sell their products through cooperatives, self-help groups, Mahila Mandals, exhibitions, local markets and social media platforms.
The Industrial Handicrafts and Handloom Cooperative Society Ltd, established in 1980, has played a role in supporting women artisans by providing livelihood opportunities and promoting contemporary designs while preserving traditional crochet and embroidery.
“This makes Goan crochet not only a reflection of the State's cultural continuity but also a source of economic empowerment and identity,” it added.
The application also notes that the craft has adapted to changing market demands, with artisans using thicker acrylic yarns to produce larger items more quickly. However, fine-thread crochet, once characteristic of the tradition, is now practised predominantly by older women.
