Let alone the sad history of how the power loom threw handloom weavers out of their jobs, the latest blow to the weaver’s community is the pandemic that has denied weavers their usual share of orders during the last year.
Take the Chettinad Cotton Saree weavers, for example. Using the color combinations of ‘Kandangi’ sarees, Chettinad Cotton Saree, just five years ago, won the ‘India Handloom’ tag for its unique designs and identity from the Union Ministry of Handlooms and Textiles, Mumbai, after passing through five rigorous quality tests to earn the branding.
The weavers now require bulk orders to have their looms retained respectfully and come out with new ones for the festive season that begins soon with Varamahalakshmi.
To reiterate the priceless contribution of the handloom weavers of the South and garner support, Madhurya Creations, a revival boutique that supports more than 1000 weaver families across India, is reaching out to people who can help place orders for Chettinad Cotton Sarees for sailing the weavers across the rough waters.
If any of you wish to help out with saree orders, here is a unique opportunity that combines charity with some shopping.
The weavers are now selling Chettinad Cotton Sarees that are generally sold for Rs.1600+ for Rs. 890 (including delivery charges), which makes up for a 50% discount.
As the weavers in villages are not accessible to pictures, WhatsApp, etc., you will not be able to choose the color of the sarees but can only select the quantity. The weavers will send you sarees in a mix of colors. The saris available in vibrant tones; don’t run color or shrink after wash.
A sample of the saris shown in the link attached gives you an idea of the type of saree you would receive, but the color and combination you would get cannot be specified for a reason mentioned above.
Log in to the link provided by Madhurya Creations and select the number of sarees you wish to buy, and key in your address details. The sarees will be sent to you directly by the weavers.