Yarn crisis threatens Chendamangalam handlooms

The handloom industry in Chendamangalam, renowned for its exquisite textiles, is facing a severe crisis ahead of the crucial Onam festival. Soaring yarn prices, primarily sourced from Tamil Nadu, have more than doubled in recent months, putting immense pressure on weavers.

T S Baby of Paravur Handloom Cooperative Society highlights the industry's plight, exacerbated because of shortage of young weavers due to low wages and limited job prospects. Despite Kerala celebrating Handloom Day, the future of the famed Chendamangalam legacy hangs in balance.

To boost sales, the Kerala Khadi and Village Industries Board aims for Rs 150 crore turnover this financial year, with Onam being a pivotal period. Special exhibitions and a 30 per cent discount are planned to attract customers. However, the challenge lies in the manual production process, involving 280 weavers and spinners across 28 units in Ernakulam. With the industry grappling with rising costs and dwindling workforce, the survival of the traditional art of handloom weaving in Chendamangalam appears increasingly uncertain.