The pictures show the handloom center in Chendamangalam in Kochi, Kerala. This industry employs people who are specially trained to operate the handlooms. The clothes thus produced are sold in their retail shops and to those interested in purchasing in bulk or to customers interested in this type of clothing. Customers can also order designer clothing.
The above picture shows the designer displaying the details of a particular order. The weavers usually make sarees, bath towels, Lungis, Mundus, and bedspreads.
The entire place was busy with women employees clicking away at their looms and adjusting the threads. It was very interesting to watch and they also took time to explain to us the entire process.
Now for the sad part. This place had been submerged entirely during the floods of 2018. A lot of goods were destroyed and beyond repair. Even the office buildings are not used to this day. The ladies currently employed are the only ones remaining behind and willing to do the work. There are vacancies but no one is ready to do the hard work that is the trademark of this industry.
The clothes produced here are bought by people all over the state just to encourage these weavers. Machine-made clothing is cheaper but people visit this small town near the Kochi airport just to encourage this industry. Also, the clothes are superior and will last longer than cheaper synthetic clothes. The ones produced here are pure cotton.
Here, you can see the threads that are dyed and set out to dry. The threads are then wound into spools using the hand machine. It reminded me of Gandhiji spinning the Charkha.
It was a wonderful experience visiting this handloom industry. I hope you also get the chance to visit such places and get to know the story behind such clothing.
If you wish you can order such clothing and handmade products from the Khadi Gram Udyog in India.
images - own