Sat Feb 08 19:16:38 UTC 2025: ## Co-optex Showcases Innovative Designs and Revived Traditions at Chennai Exhibition

**Chennai, February 9, 2025** – The Co-optex handloom cooperative held a one-day exhibition in Chennai on Saturday, showcasing a range of innovative designs and a renewed focus on traditional craftsmanship. The event, titled “Izhai – The Thread,” featured a striking vermilion red silk saree woven with the image of Thiruvalluvar and all 1330 Thirukurals, instantly capturing visitor attention.

Beyond the showstopper saree, the exhibition highlighted Co-optex’s commitment to modernizing while preserving heritage. Young women were given hands-on experience with traditional weaving techniques, guided by experienced Co-optex weavers. Other noteworthy pieces included sarees featuring Mahatma Gandhi’s image and designs that acknowledged the weavers themselves.

According to V. Amuthavalli, Principal Secretary of Handlooms, Handicrafts, Textiles and Khadi Department, the exhibition aimed to introduce new designs and gather customer feedback, moving beyond the perception of Co-optex as solely a saree and bedsheet seller. The cooperative is actively expanding its reach, participating in international conferences and collaborating with design schools like NIFT Chennai and DOT School of Design.

Managing Director Deepak Jacob highlighted the monthly designer meets that foster innovation, leading to the creation of western wear, ready-made garments, bamboo towels, and zero-waste designs. Students from DOT School of Design are even having their graduation seminars sponsored by Co-optex, with their designs soon to be implemented in textile production. The revival of the 18th-19th century Kodali Karuppur motif in silk and cotton sarees is another example of Co-optex’s commitment to preserving traditional textile art, as noted by textile designer Mahalingam P.

The exhibition concluded with saree-draping demonstrations, showcasing various styles. The event underscored Co-optex’s efforts to blend traditional craftsmanship with modern design and expand its global presence.

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