About a dozen self help groups and NGOs involved in making and selling jute products have come together to hold an exhibition and sale of their creations at Savitha Hall in RS Puram, thanks to Kovai Utsav organized by Small Industries Product Promotion Organisation Ltd (SIPPO), in association with National Jute Board, NABARD and Khadi and Village Industries Board.

The exhibition-sale bridges the gap between manufactures and the consumers. “This is the 58th exhibition that we are organizing this financial year. The idea is to help the manufactures market their products directly to the buyers.” says Palanivelmurgan. K., General Manager, SIPPO.

This time around, there are 12 stalls put up by vendors from all over South India. There is Sujatha Nachiappan from Kovilpatti selling visiting card holders, pouches to hold money, and travel pouches under the name Diamond Jute Decors. She also custom-designs her jute products.

Representing the Roja self help group at the exhibition is Mary. She shows us the jute bags manufactured by members of the group. On display are stylish bags that any college girl would want to have. There are also formal bags for office goers. The group sells their products on wholesale and retail quantities at their Town Hall store in Coimbatore.

Also selling jute bags at this exhibition are Kathambam self help group from Singanallur, Coimbatore, homemaker-turned-entrepreneur Kalpana from Madurai, Nishar Ahamad from A.N.S. Jute Bags RS Puram, and Malliga from Malligai Jute Mart from Madurai.

Also on display are home accessories and apparel made of cotton. On display and for sale at the stall put up by AK Handlooms from Tiruppur are a variety of doormats, kitchen mats and yoga mats. Balaji Towels from Tiruppur has for sale a plethora of soft cotton towels. There are silk cotton saris and dress materials for sale by Mano Silk and Pure Cotton.

Visitors are free to interact with the manufacturers. They are happy to offer buying suggestions as well. If you are a fan of eco-friendly jute, this exhibition is the right place for you.

The exhibition is open from August 28 till September 1 at Savitha Hall, RS Puram, from 11 am to 8 pm. Entry is free.