This couple, originally hailing from Salem, now living in Bengaluru, use silk to create a range of handicraft products. By innovating, they are introducing a fresh dimension to the silk market and giving new hope to those dependent on the silk trade. Through their online platform called Arthan Handmades, they sell handcrafted products. “I always had the thought, from my childhood, that I should do something new with silk. As a result of this pursuit, we make garlands, flower bunches, earrings, hair accessories and gift ar ticles. We customise these according to the preferences of our customers. The garlands we make are used not only in weddings but also for adorning deity pictures and temple idols,” said Saravanan.
Unlike the conventional practice of using silk yarn or fabric, the couple work directly with silk cocoons. They procure the cocoons directly from farmers and engage women to convert these cocoons into value-added products. Explaining the process, Saravanan said, “silk cocoons are naturally hard. When they are boiled in hot water, they become soft. That is how silk threads are extracted but for us, once the cocoon becomes soft, it is useless. The hardness must be retained. That is the biggest challenge and has been the secret of our success.”
After experimenting with this process for nearly 20 years it was only three years ago that the trials finally succeeded. The garlands made from cocoons last several years. They are strong and cannot be torn easily. At the same time, they are feather-light. Customers who want durable garlands prefer to buy from them. Usually, devotees adorn gold idols with flower garlands. Fresh flowers often cause chemical reactions and tarnish the idols. To avoid this, many have now started using these cocoon garlands. In recognition of their innovation, the Central Silk Board honoured the couple with a special award during its 75th anniversary celebrations.
