KOCHI: The tribal women of Attapapdi have forayed into umbrella-making and their handmade brand 'Karthumbi' has become a bit hit. The umbrellas launched last year are being marketed by a group of techies in Infopark called 'Progressive Techies.' More than 6,000 umbrellas were sold last year, including 4, 000 in IT parks. The umbrella-manufacturing initiative was started by the tribal organisation named 'Thumb' and an online community 'Peace Collective.'
"Through the initiative, we could contribute to the empowerment of women in the aboriginal tribes of Attapadi. It is our responsibility to support such innovative programmes by the sidelined sections of society which make a livelihood from this. 'Karthumbi' showcases the hard work, love and affection of tribal women," said Anish Panthalani, secretary of 'Progressive Techies.' Training was given to women on umbrella- making and now more than 50 women are engaged in the manufacturing.
The tribal women who cannot afford to set up a sales point to market their products are now able to get the best returns for their hard work and dedication.
The three-fold umbrellas are of superior quality and compatible with any such product in the market. Last year, the prices were Rs. 350 for coloured and Rs.330 for black. But this year, the price has been fixed at Rs.300 for all colours. "We have already placed orders for 700 umbrellas last week and the product is expected to reach Kochi by next week. Last year, we received bulk orders from other groups outside IT parks," said V.P. Shiyas, a member of 'Progressive Techies.' The collective started three years ago has been actively engaged in social, cultural and charitable activities and has members in all IT parks across the state.
