Policy

The palm leaf ‘Kottans’(baskets), purses and bags passionately produced in those parts of the district, comprising intricate knots and square and diamond patterns with pleasing colour combinations bear the stamps of elderly local ‘aachis’. Some fine specimens resemble that of ‘lace’ work on silk. The materials used may be pure palm leaf strips or multi mediums with combination of palm leaf and colour cotton cloth or beads. In some cases colour foils kept between the weaves to obtain ‘star burst’ glittering effect. Skill oriented ‘kottan’ making in good old days, was a passion, favorite pastime and expression of creativity for many of the ladies of south india. The production and usage of palm leaf ‘kottans’ assumes importance in as much as these eco friendly – locally available ‘recycled raw material’ still withstand the onslaught of plastics.