Madur Mats

Subject – Art and Culture

Concept –

Madurkathi mats, or madur, are mats woven in West Bengal from a reed called madurkottir, or madurkathi, a sedge of the family Cyperaceae.
Madur mat-making is a long-standing tradition, centred on the Medinipur district, and is an important part of the rural economy.
Madur mats are made of natural fibres.
The mats are woven mainly by weavers of the Mahishya caste, and predominantly by women.
This cottage industry contributes significantly to village household income.
The mats are non-conductive and sweat-absorbing, making them an essential household item in West Bengal’s hot and humid climate. These mats are also used for religious purposes.
On March 28, 2018, Indian Patent Office granted the Government of West Bengal a Geographical Indication (GI) Tag for madurkathi, under registration no. 567 in respect of handicrafts.
‘Masland’ a fine quality madur mat, which takes weeks to weave.
During the 18th century, Masland mats flourished under royal patronage. In 1744, Nawab Alibardi Khanissued a charter to landowning jagirdars in this regard, and as a result, it was obligatory to supply Masland mats for use in the Collectorate.
The design and the quality of material used determine the price of the madur.