CCI eyes restoration & revival of Tamil Nadu crafts

The Crafts Council  is actively working to revive Tamil Nadu  heritage
CCI eyes restoration & revival of Tamil Nadu crafts

Synonymous with promoting indigenous crafts and textiles, The Crafts Council of India has now turned its sights on Tamil Nadu. In its maiden attempt to showcase crafts from the state under its banner, the first edition of Marumalarchi by CCI will feature eight – like kalchatti from Namakkal, Toda needlecraft from the Nilgiris, Sungudi tie and dyes of Madurai, among others. 


“CCI  has engaged with many of these artisans at different capacities over the years. But, this is the first time that we have brought them all together at the Kamala store to help them monetise their trade. Marumalarchi means rebirth and this exhibition aims at reviving craft heritage and providing artisans the impetus to find relevance today,” says Jayasri Samyukta, executive committee member. Products like saris, pattamadai mats, and embroidered shawls, bags and purses will be on display exclusively for this 15-day exhibition at the CCI store.


One of the first-timers at the show is E Rajmohan, who belongs to one of the only two families still  engaged in making  Sikalnayakanpet saris. Tracing its origins back to the Nayaka dynasty in the 16th Century, 20 families that were engaged in the craft moved from Hubli to Kodali Karupur now in present-day Tamil Nadu. “These artisans were initially involved in creating temple art that resembled the kalamkari from Kodali Karupur, which was patronised by the Nayaka Kings. Following the fall of the dynasty, they further split and the two families settled in Sikalnayakanpet,” explains Visalakshi Ramaswamy, the joint secretary. Though an offshoot of kalamkari, Sikalnayakanpet is unique in its use of the tri-coloured cotton sari (red, orange and black) and hand-painted yali motifs.

Also on display expect Toda embroidery featuring motifs like reptiles, flowers, birds and animals. Adorning table linen, mobile phone holders, and even luggage tags, the needlework uses signature red and black threads. 

Rs 1,000 onwards. On at the Kamala store until April 30. Details: 28191457
 

Related Stories

No stories found.
Indulgexpress
www.indulgexpress.com