Narasapur, a coastal town in the Godavari region of Andhra Pradesh, has long been renowned for its age-old tradition of crochet lace-making. Recently, the intricately delicate Narasapur crochet craft earned the prestigious Geographical Indications (GI) tag from the Department of Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, marking a significant milestone in its journey. This recognition aims to reignite interest in exquisite handmade lace products.
Breathing new life into a time-honoured craft – Narasapur crochet
Narasapur Crochet Lace from Andhra Pradesh’s West Godavari district officially recognized with the prestigious GI tag!#crochetlace #AndhraPradesh #lepakshi #LepakshiHandiCrafts #GITag pic.twitter.com/LIPZuOeegv
— Lepakshi Handicrafts (@lepakshiaphdc) March 6, 2024
The GI tag limits the craft to 19 mandals spread across the Dr BR Ambedkar Konaseema and West Godavari districts in the Godavari region. Narasapur crochet lace showcases intricate floral and geometric patterns in vibrant hues, drawing inspiration from the state’s rich mythological narratives, natural surroundings, and everyday life. Originally crafted to adorn garments, these lace pieces have evolved into stunning tablecloths, curtains, accessories, garments, and bedcovers. Many of these products find their way to markets in France, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
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Narasapur and Palacole stand as the primary hubs of this craft, housing over 100 crochet export houses that collectively employ more than 15,000 women, predominantly from the Kapu community of Andhra Pradesh. Approximately 60% of the artisans engaged in Narasapur crochet are women.
The origins of Narasapur crochet date back to the 19th century when it was introduced to local women of Narasapur by a Scottish missionary couple. The finished products were marketed in India and overseas through acquaintances of the couple. By the early 1900s, the craft engaged over 2,000 women across the Godavari region. Over time, local artisans began experimenting with various materials and designs, leading to the evolution of a craft unique to the region.
Narasapur crochet employs cotton thread intricately woven with crochet needles of varying sizes. As part of a developmental drive, a one-of-its-kind lace park was established in Narsapur in 2004, providing artisans with a platform to exhibit and sell their creations, thereby fostering the growth of this cherished craft.
(Image credit: Uliana Zakrevska/Shutterstock)
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Written By
Esha Dasgupta
Esha is a traveller at heart, with a penchant for exploring the unchartered. She has previously worked with TravelTriangle and Internet Moguls. When not in work mode, she can be found downing endless cups of coffee while reading Enid Blyton/Sidney Sheldon.
