Chennai: From grains and root products to cotton products, women entrepreneurs in the state have diversified their business in various arenas. A ten-day exhibition by the Women Entrepreneurship Promotional Association showcases these products for sale till October 1 at Mylapore.
Around 56 stalls from women entrepreneurs of various districts in and around Chennai are available at the expo. Jewellery made out of wood and seeds, vetiver root mats that produce a cooling effect on the human body, jewellery made out of panchaloha metals that extract body heat and kolu idols were some of the unique attractions of the expo. “It takes from one day to a week to make these artifacts. For generations we have been into this business and we feel proud to continue doing it,” said Parimala Rajan, owner of Mangadu Amman Panchaloham, Mylapore.
According to R. Valarmathy, who makes terracotta idols along with 19 other self-help group members, the business is satisfactory and rewarding as the idols range from Rs 15 to Rs 5,000 catering to customer needs. Repco Bank has financed these women towards developing their business with their microfinance schemes.
As a part of the event, seminars on various topics like e waste management and herbal products by experts will be conducted on these days from 11 am to 2 pm along with cultural events from 6 pm to 7.30 pm by students from the Krishnaswamy College for Women and other artistes.
