The Bodo Aronai is a small cloth, typically like a scarf or muffler. For the Bodo people of Assam, Aronai is a piece of honor, tradition, and identity. A textile heritage that demonstrates community resilience in the picturesque mountains of Assam. It is woven by female family members, serving as a great example of the women dominated textile industry, and a true testament to women's empowerment. With its Geographical Indication (GI) tag, Bodo Aronai is now officially recognized as a protected heritage textile of Assam.
Most motifs and patterns on Arnoai represent rich culture, knowledge, and love for the nature of the Bodo people. The most recognisable and meaningful pattern is “Hajw Agor”, which means mountains. Another remarkable aspect of Aronai is the simplicity and harmony achieved through minimal design. Despite this minimalism, the cultural depth of the Aronai remains its most prominent feature, surpassing even the design itself.
Production of the Aronai goes through multiple stages. Methods include ginning, spinning, and reeling the cotton yarn. Next, winding, warping, and beaming prepare the yarn for the loom. At last, the warp beam is placed in a looming machine, and the final process of weaving takes place. Handloom and textile cottage industry plays an important role in the socio-economic life of Bodo people, particularly in rural areas of Assam.
Aronai is not simply made to serve as a scarf or as an accessory to the main dress. It is an integral part of Bodo culture, which gradually became a symbol of the community’s identity. This indigenous textile is the most respectful gift given to the warriors to tribute their valour and courage. Worn as a guard of honour across one's chest around the shoulder. Aronai is also used to welcome guests or relatives. During winter, it is commonly wrapped around the neck for warmth and is also used in the performance of the Bagurumba dance.
RIPA is a Not for profit organization with an aim to promote and facilitate indigenous Intellectual Property [IP] at National and International level.
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