In a proud moment for India’s artistic heritage, the quiet town of Mannar in Kerala’s Alappuzha district has found itself in the international spotlight. The town's centuries-old tradition of metal craftsmanship recently received global acclaim when Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted a traditional brass ‘uruli’ to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during the G20 Summit held in South Africa in November.

This gesture not only celebrated diplomatic ties but also placed the exquisite skill of Mannar’s artisans on a world platform.

Vocal for Local: A Prime Ministerial Endorsement

During his monthly radio programme, Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi revealed the significance behind the choice of gifts. Emphasizing his commitment to the 'Vocal for Local' initiative, he stated that every gift presented to world leaders was carefully curating to showcase India's rich culture.

"I presented the Prime Minister of Australia with a brass uruli, an exquisite craft from Mannar, Kerala. My aim was to make the world aware of Indian crafts, art, and traditions, and to provide a global platform to the talent of our artisans." — Prime Minister Narendra Modi

The ‘Uruli’, traditionally used as a cookware vessel and now often used as a decorative bowl for floating flowers, is a symbol of Kerala’s domestic culture and artistic precision.

Other Gifts to World Leaders: The Prime Minister also highlighted other artifacts gifted during the summit, creating a diverse tapestry of Indian art:

• Canada: A silver horse replica from Udaipur.
•  Japan: A silver Buddha replica.
•  Italy: A silver mirror adorned with floral motifs.

Mannar: The 'Bell Metal Town'

Mannar is affectionately known as the ‘Bell Metal Town’ due to its renown for creating high-quality bell metal, brass, and bronze handicrafts. From majestic temple bells and idols to household lamps and utensils, the town is a hub of metallurgical artistry.

The Historical Roots Historians trace the origins of this hub to a migration centuries ago. Skilled artisans from Sankarankovil and Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu are believed to have settled in Mannar, laying the foundation for what is now a thriving, albeit challenging, industry.

The Push for a GI Tag

In a significant development for the industry, the Union government has initiated steps to secure a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for Mannar’s traditional metal crafts.

In a reply to Mavelikkara MP Kodikunnil Suresh, the Union Minister for MSME, Jitan Ram Manjhi, confirmed that the GI Registry has scheduled a pre-hearing for the application. The application was a joint submission by the Mannar Shilpa Kala Bell Metal Swayam Sahaya Sahakarana Sangham and the Aranmula Heritage Handicrafts Producer Company Limited.

Why is the GI Tag Crucial? According to Natarajan C, a leader of the artisans’ collective, the GI tag could change the fortunes of the industry:

• International Recognition: It stamps the product with a mark of quality global buyers trust.
• Authenticity: It helps distinguish genuine Mannar crafts from mass-produced counterfeits.
• Economic Security: It promises improved income stability and job security for the artisans.

Future Outlook: Demands for Support

While the global spotlight is a morale booster, local leaders are pushing for more tangible support to sustain the craft. MP Kodikunnil Suresh has urged the Centre to announce a special package for the sector.

Key Demands Include:

• Financial assistance and raw material subsidies.
• Modern infrastructure support.
• Establishment of a PM Vishwakarma Skill Centre in Mannar to blend traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques.

As the 'Uruli' sits in the office of the Australian Prime Minister, it serves as a silent ambassador for the artisans of Mannar, promising a future where their hammers and chisels continue to ring out for generations to come.