Current Affairs - Art and Culture - Discussion

The Banaras Shehnai, a traditional wind instrument known for its ceremonial and spiritual importance, was recently awarded a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, formally recognizing its roots in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Revered through the legacy of Ustad Bismillah Khan, who made the instrument internationally famous, the shehnai is crafted with deep cultural and philosophical significance. Artisans from Varanasi, using Sheesham and Sagwan wood along with reeds from Bihar, create each piece with intricate care and precision. The GI tag honours the historical craftsmanship, protects the authenticity of the instrument, and ensures that its geographical and cultural identity is preserved for future generations.