Chendamangalam Weaves - The Story of Resilience

A year has passed for Kerala since the floods of 2018. Another monsoon has arrived. This is the story of resilience of the Chendamangalam weavers…

Chendamangalam is situated in the Paravoor taluk of Ernakulam District. There are over 600 weavers in the region attached to the several weaver’s co-operatives. Chendamangalam weaves obtained GI tag in 2012. The looms here have the unique reputation of having facilities for weaving finer count cotton combed yarn of 120s, 100s and 80s.

The floods of 2018 hit them hard. Handloom sector in the district suffered massive loss to the tune of 15crore. Around 255 looms were destroyed, yarns, raw materials and the stock readied for the 2018 Onam sale lost.

Support poured in from various corners. Various organization came forth and participated in the revival process as part of their CSR activities. Cine stars and famous personalities came forth to offer support and take the cause to the larger public. Many designers came forth and provided design interventions and sale support. Chekkutty dolls, a venture to re-use the soiled stock, became a beacon of hope for Chendamangalam.

Six months later, more than 90% looms were functional. Orders for school uniforms under the state govt scheme to provide handloom uniforms for the govt school children are handed over. Chendamangalam sector is revived with renewed colour schemes and the finest quality products that they are known for.