The Indian government has officially recognized the traditional Mojari craft of Jodhpur, which has been around for nearly 200 years, by awarding it a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This designation aims to enhance the craft’s visibility and promote its branding on a global scale.
On Wednesday, the GI certificate was presented by the GI Registry to the Jodhpur Handicraft Exporters Association along with the Gram Vikas Seva Sansthan. Representatives from these organizations mentioned that they had sought the GI tag in 2021, with assistance from the Union Ministry of Textiles and the Development Commissioner for Handicrafts. This recognition is considered a significant achievement for the local handicraft sector.
Bharat Dinesh, the president of the Jodhpur Handicraft Exporters Association, expressed optimism that this GI tag would provide a substantial boost to the industry. “There are approximately 400 manufacturers and more than 35,000 artisans involved in this craft. Once favored by royalty, Mojari has developed into a unique craft that symbolizes the identity of Jodhpur. Currently, artisans engage in this craft in over 5,000 homes across the city,” noted Dinesh.
The Jodhpuri Mojari shoes are produced primarily by members of the Jinagar caste, who historically specialized in saddle making, according to scholars. Madan Meena, an executive member of the Kota Heritage Society, explained that this community transitioned to shoemaking about 250 years ago, initially crafting saddles and leather sheaths for weaponry for military use. Their craft earned them the title of Jingars, signifying their expertise in saddle production.
Meena shared a legend about the community’s shift to creating footwear. During a royal wedding in Jodhpur, the Jingars presented a pair of shoes intricately designed so that one shoe appeared to be hidden within the other. The ruler was so impressed by their skill that he encouraged them to pursue shoemaking. Consequently, the Jingars began to manufacture fine leather shoes, often adorned with elaborate embroidery by women in the community.
As demand grew, their craftsmanship became a primary source of income, with nomadic and agricultural communities frequently commissioning bespoke designs. Many families have maintained long-standing relationships with these artisans over generations, highlighting the craft’s deep-rooted connection to Jodhpur’s cultural fabric.
The domestic market for Jodhpuri Mojari is estimated to be valued at approximately ₹100 crore, with exports amounting to around ₹10 crore. Experts in the industry believe that the GI tag could significantly enhance export opportunities and potentially double the business within the next two years.
Dinesh pointed out that artisans currently face challenges related to innovation and technology. “We anticipate that the government will take initiatives to promote this craft following this recognition, and hope that designers from across the country will become interested in collaborating with us,” he added.
Parul Kulshrestha serves as a Principal Correspondent for The Indian Express, operating out of Rajasthan. With a background in law, she transitioned into journalism, bringing a unique perspective that combines legal understanding with a social lens, particularly in covering one of India’s most culturally rich and politically dynamic regions.
Her expertise is characterized by a blend of legal and journalistic skills, giving her an edge in analyzing policy, legislation, and their implications on society. She has developed a reputation for her insightful reporting on various subjects, including the rights of marginalized groups and the intersection of law and gender issues.
Kulshrestha has also focused on the complexities of Rajasthan’s political landscape and pressing environmental challenges, such as water scarcity and land management, making her a respected voice in the media.
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