About Masland:

• 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 Khan issued a charter to land-owning jagirdar in this regard, and as a result, it was obligatory to supply Masland mats for use in the Collectorate.

Source: EPIC August 2021