Ponduru Khadi

Recently, Ponduru Khadi has been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Geographical Indications Registry under the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry. This recognition provides legal protection to the product and highlights its cultural and economic significance.

About Ponduru Khadi

Ponduru Khadi is a renowned handspun and handwoven cotton fabric originating from Andhra Pradesh. It is locally known as Patnulu and is traditionally produced in Ponduru village, located in the Srikakulam district.

The fabric has been nominated under the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme for the Srikakulam district. During the pre-independence period, Mahatma Gandhi praised the virtues of Ponduru Khadi in Young India, the national weekly edited by him.

Key Characteristics of Ponduru Khadi

Production Process

Ponduru Khadi is produced using three indigenous varieties of cotton—hill cotton, punasa cotton, and red cotton. The cotton is locally grown in and around the Srikakulam district.

The entire process, from raw cotton to finished fabric, is carried out manually, preserving traditional techniques.

Unique Features of Ponduru Khadi

Traditional Cotton Cleaning

A distinctive feature of Ponduru Khadi is the cleaning of cotton using the jawbone of the Valuga fish, a practice that is unique to Ponduru and not followed anywhere else in the world.

Spinning Technique

Ponduru is the only place in India where spinners still use single-spindle charkhas with 24 spokes, popularly known as the “Gandhi Charkha”.

High Yarn Count

The final fabric has a very high yarn count, ranging between 100 and 120 counts, giving Ponduru Khadi its fine texture and superior quality.

Significance of the GI Tag

The GI tag helps in protecting the traditional knowledge of local artisans, preventing misuse of the name Ponduru Khadi, and enhancing market access for weavers. It also promotes rural livelihoods, handloom heritage, and sustainable textile practices.