The indigenous Toda women of the Nilgiris are renowned for their distinctive, GI-tagged, black, and red embroidery. Inspired by nature, the pukhoor (motif) based design follows the warp and weft thread count of the base cloth. The artisans work their magic by stretching the material and counting the threads using just their fingers.
For almost two years, a team of us, including two senior Toda artisans, embarked on an (ongoing) journey to re-imagine this art form on fine, sustainable fabrics with newer formats and a contemporary aesthetic. While we continue to honour the traditional cotton that the artisans have long used, this marks a pronounced departure from the conventional towards a renewed approach to the art form. We work in close collaboration the artisans and select weavers, constantly exploring new materials and beautiful fabrics, especially woven to suit this unique thread-counting technique. Our unwavering mission is to bring the exquisite beauty of this rare art form to a modern, appreciative world.
Ellen Petry Leanse (verified owner) –
This beautiful shawl is more than a work of art. It’s a statement about what matters in the world, and in the choices we make. I love knowing that I’m wearing culture, pride, and hope as I wrap myself in this treasure. I also love the compliments I get – and the response when I share how, where, and why these lovely pieces are made. Thank you, Coonoor & Co!
ramya (store manager) –
Thank you so much for your warm words and love, Ellen. So happy to see you wear the shawl!