Mon Aug 04 17:49:01 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the provided text, written from the perspective of The Hindu newspaper:
**Kannur Khadi Mela Targets Gen Z with Modern Designs**
**Kannur, August 4, 2025:** The district-level Khadi Onam Mela opened in Kannur today, aiming to revitalize Khadi’s appeal, especially amongst younger generations. The event, organized by the Kerala Khadi Village Industries Board and Khadi institutions, showcases a revamped Khadi line designed to resonate with Gen Z and Gen Alpha consumers.
Speaking at the inauguration, Assembly Speaker A.N. Shamseer lauded the Board’s initiative to remain relevant in a changing market. He highlighted the production of professional attire, like coats for doctors and lawyers, in Khadi, along with modern accessories such as sling bags, which were launched at the event.
Khadi Board Vice-Chairman P. Jayarajan emphasized Khadi’s role as “a movement of the poor,” urging every household to purchase at least one Khadi product. Kannur Corporation Mayor Muslih Madathil launched the new product range, while district panchayat president K.K. Ratnakumar inaugurated the gift coupon distribution.
The mela features a wide array of Khadi products including silk and cotton sarees, bed sheets, mundus, and cane crafts, all available with a 30% government discount. In addition to discounted prices, shoppers receive a gift coupon for every ₹1,000 spent, entering them into a draw with prizes including a Tata Tiago EV, Bajaj EV scooters for each district, and 50 gift vouchers. The main draw is scheduled for October 7. Weekly draws with gift vouchers worth ₹3,000 will also be held in the district. The event promises a modern take on a traditional craft, aiming to engage a new generation with the enduring appeal of Khadi.
First Piper 