NAVRATRI GIFTING: TAMBULAM BAGS WITH A CAUSE

Gifting is an integral part of Indian culture, woven into the fabric of every celebration, across all religions and states. Whether it’s a simple offering of sweets or an elaborate gift of gold, these gestures symbolize respect, gratitude, and love. The tradition of gifting is more than just an exchange; it reflects the deep value Indians place on relationships, using thoughtful gifts to express their emotions and strengthen bonds. The most common form of gifting followed in India is called a Tambulam. It is a ceremonial offering or gift that typically includes a variety of auspicious items such as betel leaves, areca nuts, fruits, flowers, sweets, bangles, turmeric, and vermilion. This is most exchanged during festivals and religious functions like Navratri, weddings, and pujas as a mark of respect, hospitality, and good fortune.

The Role of Tambulam Bags

Tambulam items are traditionally packed in beautifully crafted bags known as Tambulam bags, chosen with as much consideration as the offerings they carry. These bags [or potlis] are made using fabric like silk or cotton with embroidery and prints to make the gifting experience both meaningful and visually enriching. These bags are akin to the sacred cloth used to cover offerings in temples, where the sanctity of the covering is considered as significant as the offering itself. Elaborate artforms like Chambarumal and Pipli practiced on this cloth shows us how significant a covering is in the ceremony. The aesthetic appeal of the Tambulam bag enhances the overall sense of ceremony and reverence during festive celebrations. The effort put into the packing of the gifts and offerings is testimony to the rich traditions of gifting in India.

Why is so much thought put into the selection of Tambulam bags?

1. Symbol of Thoughtfulness: The careful selection of a Tambulam bag, especially a handcrafted or customized one, reflects the thought and respect with which the gift is given. Tambulam bags, often adorned with vibrant colours and traditional designs, enhance the personal and spiritual value of the offering.
2. Reusability and Sustainability: Often Tambulam bags are made from eco-friendly materials like jute, aligning with growing trends toward sustainability and promoting a conscious approach to gifting. These reusable bags can serve as a reminder of the occasion, long after the festival is over.
3. Preserving Traditional Crafts: Tambulam bags often reflect the rich diversity of Indian craftsmanship, featuring techniques such as block printing, mirror work, hand embroidery, and fabric painting. These bags not only highlight the unique artistry of different regions but also connect these art forms to local rituals and festivals, helping in the preservation and celebration of cultural heritage. For instance, the Pipli art is traditionally used to adorn the fabric that covers the three deities during the Rath Yatra at the Jagannath Temple. Supporting the production of these bags helps to keep these traditional crafts alive and sustains the livelihoods of local artisans.

During Navratri, a festival that venerates the nine forms of Goddess Durga, Tambulam gifting holds special significance. It is customary for families to invite married women, known as Sumangali, for the ritual of haldi-kumkum, where turmeric and vermilion—symbols of prosperity and marital bliss—are ceremoniously applied. As part of this tradition, gifts of Tambulam are offered, honoring these women as embodiments of the goddess and invoking blessings for health, wealth, and happiness.

Kritikala’s handmade Tambulam bags add a meaningful layer to this tradition. The beautiful potli bags, crafted by women artisans upskilled in stitching and embroidery through Kriti Social Initiatives, not only elevate the festive experience but also empower the women behind them. By providing training and employment opportunities, Kritikala enables these artisans to achieve financial independence. The newly launched potli bags for Navratri gifting perfectly embody the spirit of the festival, blending tradition with a commitment to social upliftment.