"Chhatris have a special significance in the culture of Kerala...umbrellas are an important part of the traditions and rituals there...but the umbrella I am talking about is Karthumbi Chhatri...and it is made in Attappady, Kerala These colorful umbrellas are very spectacular... and the specialty is that these umbrellas are made by our tribal sisters of Kerala... Today Karthumbi umbrellas are being sold from a small village in Kerala to multinational companies. Completing the journey of... What could be a better example of being 'vocal' for a local than this?" PM Modi said.
Incidentally, it has been almost eight years since this umbrella brand, created by around 70 tribal women in Attappady in Palakkad district, was launched.
This innovative project has been promoted by Thampu, an organization engaged in community projects, and Peace Collective, an online community.
Another organization playing its role is a group of IT professionals by the name of Progressive Techies which is engaged in marketing of umbrellas.
Starting modestly, today the people behind this project have started training around 350 women who will soon be able to take up this trade.
These umbrellas sold through online sites are priced around Rs 350 to Rs 390. The main sales are during the monsoon season, during which about 15,000 pieces are sold annually.
With Prime Minister Modi now highlighting Karthumbi umbrellas, the people behind this innovative venture are excited and are expecting sales to grow rapidly.
Incidentally, it has been almost eight years since this umbrella brand, created by around 70 tribal women in Attappady in Palakkad district, was launched.
This innovative project has been promoted by Thampu, an organization engaged in community projects, and Peace Collective, an online community.
Another organization playing its role is a group of IT professionals by the name of Progressive Techies which is engaged in marketing of umbrellas.
Starting modestly, today the people behind this project have started training around 350 women who will soon be able to take up this trade.
These umbrellas sold through online sites are priced around Rs 350 to Rs 390. The main sales are during the monsoon season, during which about 15,000 pieces are sold annually.
With Prime Minister Modi now highlighting Karthumbi umbrellas, the people behind this innovative venture are excited and are expecting sales to grow rapidly.