Behind the mat

A mat — it’s as simple as that. But have we ever stopped to wonder what stories lie hidden under every mat? Here’s a book that aims to show what we’ve, perhaps, never thought of. Craft Matters: Artisans, Developm ent and the Indian Nation describes the work and lives of Muslim fine mat weavers of Pattamadai in Tamil Nadu, exploring how Muslims, who produce objects for Hindu rituals, become mascots for pluralism, tolerance and harmony. The book shows the ways in which craft is made to matter in India, not just for producers who need to earn livelihoods, but for the nation itself.

The book, by Soumhya Venkatesan, will be launched at 7 p.m. on November 12 at Madras Terrace House. The author will discuss her work and take questions. She suggests that most craft development is not for the welfare of craft producers. Rather, it is for our own wellbeing. She believes that acknowledging this will make for more effective attempts to keep crafts alive.

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