Manjal - From M.Rm.Rm Foundation, Chennai

Today I am taking you to a beautiful store " Manjal" (a Chettinad craft and tradition unit in Chennai) by M.Rm.Rm Foundation, A non profit organization run by Ms. Visalakshi Ramaswamy.

The M.Rm.Rm Cultural Foundation’s motto is ‘Research, Document, Revive’, with craft preservation and revival rooted in artisan and community development. It works primarily with local village women to revive craft, while at the same time providing them with a reliable source of income, exposure and a tremendous amount of confidence.

Many in Chennai do not know where to get Chettinad Kottan products. I see that people enquire various websites, to know the available sources to get Kottan. You walk in to this store and your search should end . This is the place where you can grab such things.  Vibrant colour boxes are placed in every corner.

Colorful collection of all type of boxes in all shapes, baskets, coin/money purses, bottle holders in different shades etc add to the beautiful collection.

Vibrant collection and patterns of Chettinad Kottan  is a visual treat to the eyes. 

The traditional Palmyra basketry of Chettinad, kottans were once woven by the women of the Chettiar community but over the time, they slowly stopped being made. The Foundation has revived the craft in its original patterns by teaching it to a group of village women from Keelayapatti Village in Chettinad. The aim of the M.Rm.Rm Foundation  is to provide a dependable and sustainable source of income through this craft

These baskets are gaining great popularity both as packaging for gifts as well as a range of contemporary home accessories. The Natural dye has resulted in a whole new range of subtle earthy shades that are as exquisite as they are eco-friendly.

I have already added a few boxes to my home, a tissue box for my car. The Kottan today has found its place in the contemporary home.


Thanks to the people at Manjal for allowing me to feature of their lovely store in my blog.


They are located :

Manjal / M.Rm.Rm Foundation
No. 70, MRC Nagar Main Road, 
MRC Nagar, RA Puram, Chennai


FB link here



{ For images Contact Manjal}