Top 5 Geographical Indication (GI) Products You Should Buy In Mysore

OT Staff

Mysore Silk

The gleaming lustre and zari embroidery of a Mysore silk sari is unmatched anywhere in India. Only high quality pure natural silk and 100 per cent pure gold zari is used to produce Mysore Silk saris. To assure authenticity, the Karnataka Silk Industries Corporation (KSIC) stamps a unique code number and hologram as identification marks on each of them.

The gleam of a Mysore silk sari | Copyright: Karnataka Tourism. All Rights Reserved

Mysore Rosewood Inlay

The craftsmanship of Mysore rosewood inlay products thrived under the patronage of Tipu Sultan and the rulers of the Wadiyar dynasty. The Karnataka State Handicrafts Development Corporation Limited (KSHDCL) runs an online store selling exquisitely designed Mysore rosewood inlay products.

Exquisitely-designed Mysore rosewood inlay boxes | Copyright: Karnataka Tourism. All Rights Reserved

Mysore Traditional Paintings

Traditional Mysore paintings are characterised by their delicate lines, intricate brush strokes, the graceful forms of the Hindu gods and goddesses, and the use of bright vegetable colours and lustrous gold leaf. More than mere decorative pieces, these paintings are designed to inspire feelings of devotion and humility in the viewer.

A traditional Mysore painting on display | Copyright: Karnataka Tourism. All Rights Reserved

Ganjifa Cards

Boasting intricate designs and incorporating the captivating imagery of deities, the Ganjifa craft is a unique blend of strategic play and artistic heritage. Spanning lavish sets made of precious stone-inlaid ivory or tortoise shell all the way to materials such as wood, palm leaf, stiffened cloth and pasteboard, the cards differ in design, the number of suits and size. 

A woman holds beautifully-designed playing Ganjifa cards | Copyright: Karnataka Tourism. All Rights Reserved

Mysore Sandalwood Oil

Often referred to as “liquid gold” for its consistent quality and fragrance, the Mysore sandalwood oil is a versatile product, used in medicine, beauty products and for cosmetic preparation. It is said that the sweet and woody odour of sandalwood acts as a mood enhancer. 

A woman smells the aroma of Mysore sandalwood oil | Copyright: Karnataka Tourism. All Rights Reserved

From Coorg To Channapatna, Here Are 4 Geographical Indication (GI) Products From Karnataka That You Should Know About

The green cardamom of Coorg for sale in a market | Copyright: Karnataka Tourism. All Rights Reserved
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