A human chain was formed in protest of the claim of the Ministry of Culture of India that the famous Tangail saree, a symbol of Bangladesh’s rich cultural heritage, originates from West Bengal, India.
The human chain, organized in front of Tangail Press Club on Saturday afternoon, demanded GI recognition of the handloom sarees.
Founder of Shishuder Jonno Foundation Mueed Hasan Tarit, social activist Nadiur Rahman Akash, Mirza Rian and others spoke on the occasion.
Speakers at the time said the Tangail saree is Bangladesh’s pride and India should not get recognition for it.
They added that India's demand is unreasonable and appropriate action should be taken in this regard.
On Friday, the Ministry of Culture of India asserted that the famous Tangail saree, a symbol of Bangladesh’s rich cultural heritage, actually originates from West Bengal, India.
The controversial claim was made via a Facebook post on the official page of the Ministry of Culture, sparking criticism and humour on social media.
The post claims: “The Tangail saree, originating from West Bengal, is a traditional handwoven masterpiece. Renowned for its fine texture, vibrant colors, and intricate Jamdani motifs, it epitomizes the region’s rich cultural heritage. Each Tangail saree is a testament to skilled craftsmanship, seamlessly weaving together tradition and elegance.”
The claim has triggered a wave of reactions on social media, with netizens expressing discontent and questioning the authenticity of such a statement from an important ministry.
This is not the first time the identity of the Tangail saree has been embroiled in controversy.
Origin of Tangail saree
Tangail weaving stands as one of Bangladesh’s oldest cottage industries, with Tangail weave sarees gaining global appreciation. Named after the district where it is produced, this traditional saree holds historical significance dating back to the late 19th century.
Historical records indicate that the Basak community, particularly known as Hindu weavers, were the original weavers of Tangail.
Originally migrant weavers, the Basaks are descendants of traditional muslin weavers, originally residing in Dhamrai and Chauhatta in the present Dhaka district.
The migration to Tangail occurred in the 19th century due to the scarcity of muslin cloth and a search for more favourable climatic conditions.
Although initially focused on unpatterned cloth, the weaving industry experienced significant growth during Mahatma Gandhi’s Swadeshi movement in 1906.
By 1923-24, designs were introduced on woven fabrics, and in 1931-32, Jacquard looms were integrated for saree production.
Tangail weaving, known for its unique characteristics, gained global recognition.
Skilled weavers, particularly from the Basak community in the Patil Union of the district, continue to produce sarees in the original and traditional way.
These sarees are sold at Bajitpur and Kartia Haats two days a week.
