Date:26/09/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/09/26/stories/2008092658630200.htm

Tamil Nadu - Chennai

‘Kaithari Thiruvizha’ today

Special Correspondent

CHENNAI: Designer silk saris, silk pavadai, silk kurtha, silk sari with embroidery and embellishment work are being introduced by the Department of Handlooms and Textiles as part of the 10-day ‘Kaithari Thiruvizha’ to be held at Vijaya Mahal from September 26.

“For the first time, we have included non-textile products too and have asked the Departments of Handicrafts, Khadi and Self-Help Groups of Women Development Corporation to put up stalls in the Deepavali special silk and cotton exhibition cum sale of handloom products. We expect to sell goods worth Rs.75 lakh,” its director R. Jaya told The Hindu on Tuesday.

The exquisite varieties of handloom products produced by the Weavers Co-operative Societies in the State will be on sale cum display.

Cotton saris of Coimbatore, Kancheepuram, Paramakudi, Vilanthai and Dindigul; silk saris of Kancheepuram, Arani, Thirubuvanam and Salem; and home need furnishing will be on sale.

A 30 per cent rebate is being offered on cotton and silk saris, while specific varieties of silk saris that are over one year old will be offered in discounts up to 45 per cent.

The department is introducing three types of designer saris weaved at Kancheepuram. They are priced between Rs.3,000 and Rs.6,000.

“To make this year’s festival an attractive proposition, a food court is being set up at the venue. Besides, a Fashion Show will be held on the opening day at 5 pm at the venue,” she added.