You can pick an authentic Kancheepuram silk saree, choose matching jewellery, pack both in a jute or cotton bag, and take home a clay doll for children to play with — all made in Kancheepuram – from one shop: Mathi Angadi, which was recently opened near the Sri Varadharaja Perumal temple.
This will be yet another avenue for members of self-help groups (SHG) to showcase their products. Many sell their wares at the commercial complex in the District Collectorate.
Hamsa Prasad, who is part of Sri Sai Ganapathy SHG, said six members in her group were involved in making jute and cotton bags, files, folders and even backpacks. “If there is an exhibition or a sale, it would mean a good month for us. Otherwise, we will manufacture our wares hoping for a profit,” said Ms. Hamsa, who believes in selling the products directly to customers rather than through other shops or agencies.
Direct customer contact seems to be the mantra of Sri Ramajayam SHG, which is a group of silk saree weavers. “Ours is over 10 years old, but only for the past 3-4 years have we been provided with loans. This has provided us the opportunity to manufacture and sell sarees without worries,” said Nalli Jyothi Dayalan, whose group’s products are being sold at the Mathi shop.
“We stock products of SHGs on a rotational basis. Products from other districts are also being sold here. Among food products, the focus is on millets,” Ms. Mohan said. The district administration ensures that SHG products are regularly exhibited at colleges, offices, and apartment complexes.
Published – July 07, 2025 12:03 am IST
