Central Cottage Industries Emporium, Chennai
(A Govt of India undertaking, Ministry of Textiles) Indian Handicraft shop
The Central Cottage Industries Emporium was primarily created to preserve and nurture the rich cultural heritage of India. They have a splendid collection of Indian handicrafts. Dedicated artisans work on creating these handicrafts. The Emporium is located centrally in Chennai in Temple Towers at Nandanam.
Temple Towers is in itself a landmark. It has a unique structure like a tower of temple. It is conical in shape and tapering towards the top.
Indian Handicrafts
The Central Cottage Industries Emporium is a treasure house with a huge collection of art objects. Art objects in wood, marble,brass and bronze are available .Intricately carved elephants, horses or camels in wood or marble and laced with gold are very popular . These pieces are the typical purchases made in this Chennai shop. These handicrafts are purchased as gifts to visitors to India. They are also purchased popularly as souvenirs to take back from India.
In addition, pottery and metal craft items in german silver are available.Brightly painted ceramic dinner sets, German silver cutlery sets and decorative items are attractive . They are definite buys for our homes.
A variety of candles, in different shapes and sizes and attractive candle stands are noteworthy.
Hindu Deities
Hindu Idols such as Ganesha and Krishna are available at reasonable prices and in different sizes. Idols are very popular as gifts. As a result ,it is hence a good idea to buy brass idols while shopping in Chennai.
Furniture
The Central Cottage Industries Emporium store has a separate section for furniture. Minutely carved rocking chairs, tables, pews and garden benches are displayed for sale.
Fabrics, Garments
In addition, they have a section dedicated to fabrics and garments. Cotton, silk and woolen fabrics in ethnic prints are available in this Chennai shop. Ready made garments for men and women such as jackets, salwars, sarees and scarves draw a lot of attention.One can always see customers browsing or purchasing them . As always,Silk scarves are good buys as gifts.They are also affordable.
Handmade Toys
Handmade toys is probably the most colorful section in this shop in Chennai. We are able to see simple and brightly colored toys such as puppets, pencils, doll, parrots and similar items. We can also see traditional Indian board games such as chess and pallanguzhi. The latter is a south Indian board game played by two players on a wooden board with 14 pits and pebbles, cowrie shells or tamarind nuts.
Herbal Teas
Finally, browse through the herbal tea section before you leave the store. The tea bags are export quality and made from best quality Indian Tea and herbs. Several varieties are available, in attractive bags.They can be purchased as gifts or for personal consumption. We recommend that you pick up some tea from this store when shopping in Chennai.
The items are packed well with wraps and crumbled packing paper so they can be carried without fear of breakage and the items are handed in paper bags. Additional charges apply for gift wrapping.
Artisans work from their hometown. The Cottage Industries is instrumental in generating and providing employment to millions of artisans.
