Collection: Madur Kathi
Madur Kathi is a traditional mat weaving craft practiced in Sabang in Paschim Medinipur. Recognized as a GI craft in 2016, the mats are woven from the Cyperus pangorei grass commonly known as Korai. This reed-like plant is cultivated in the wetlands of the region and is valued for its strength, flexibility and smooth texture, making it ideal for mat weaving. he crop is generally planted during the early monsoon months and grows throughout the rainy season. Harvesting of the mature reeds usually takes place between September and November, when the stalks reach optimal maturity and produce the best quality fibres for mat weaving. Once harvested, the stalks are carefully dried and processed to prepare them for weaving. Some of the reeds are also dyed using natural or chemical colours to create decorative patterns and borders.
The traditional making process begins with preparing and sorting the reeds according to size and quality. It is then woven to mats on simple looms, interlacing the processed Madur Kathi fibres with cotton threads to create strong yet lightweight surfaces. The weaving technique allows artisans to create geometric patterns, stripes and decorative motifs, which are characteristic of Madur Kathi products.
Historically, Madur Kathi mats held an important place in Bengali households, where they were commonly used for seating, daily living spaces and even presented as gifts during weddings and ceremonial occasions.
From the BONGONIKETAN Studio
At BONGONIKETAN, we work closely with craft villages where the traditional Madur Kathi weaving craft continues in Paschim Medinipur. Through our collaborations with skilled artisans, we prepare traditional floor mats, table mats, runners, bags and other home décor and utility items, combining functionality with the natural beauty of the material. Depending on the size and intricacy of the design, a single piece may take a minimum of 3-4 days post the dried grass to complete, as the weaving requires careful handwork and precision.
By working directly with artisan communities and craft clusters, BONGONIKETAN aims to support the sustainability of this traditional grass weaving craft while bringing the natural elegance of Madur Kathi products into contemporary homes.
GI Location: Paschim Medinipur District, West Bengal, India
GI Registration Year: 2016
GI Source: Geographical Indications Registry, Intellectual Property India, Government of India
