January 31, 2026

Crochet & Culture: A Kanyakumari Artist’s Creative Revival

My name is Subashini, and I am a handcrafted silk thread and crochet artist from Kanyakumari. My creative journey began quietly and gradually turned into my life’s profession. Art was not something I originally planned as a career, but it became my strength during a turning point in my life.

In 2004, I started working at a primary school. After school hours, I wanted to use my free time productively and creatively. That is when I chose to learn embroidery - both hand embroidery and machine embroidery. What began as a small skill slowly grew into deep interest and dedication. I continued practicing embroidery and craft work alongside my job for many years.

In 2017, due to health issues and family challenges, I had to leave my job. That difficult phase became the moment where art turned from a side activity into my main profession. I decided to fully dedicate myself to learning and creating different forms of traditional and decorative crafts.

Over time, I specialized in silk thread jewellery and crochet craft products, combining tradition, devotion, and utility into handmade creations.

My Specialization - Silk Thread Jewellery

One of my primary specializations is silk thread jewellery, especially silk thread bangles. These bangles are handmade using silk thread similar to the thread used in Aari work. They are decorated with stones, beads, and traditional color combinations.

Silk thread bangles are widely used in:

• Weddings

• Bridal ceremonies

• Baby showers

• Naming ceremonies

• Temple functions

• Festival poojas

• Auspicious family events

Brides and women prefer silk thread bangles because they match traditional sarees and occasion dresses beautifully. They are lightweight, colorful, customizable, and culturally rooted. Many customers order them in matching sets for wedding functions and ritual events.

My Crochet Craft Work

Along with silk thread jewellery, I create a wide range of crochet products using baby soft wool and acrylic yarns, depending on the purpose and durability required.

My crochet creations include:

• Thamboolam bags

• Mini return gift bags

• Crochet keychains

• Hair accessories

• Small baskets

• Decorative utility items

Each item is handmade carefully, stitch by stitch, which takes time but gives uniqueness and strength.

What Are Thamboolam Bags - Cultural Meaning and Use

Thamboolam bags have deep cultural importance in Indian traditions, especially in South Indian rituals and ceremonies.

"Thamboolam" refers to the ceremonial return gift offered to guests during auspicious occasions. Traditionally, it includes items like betel leaves, areca nut, turmeric, kumkum, coconut, fruits, sweets, or small gifts.

These bags are used in:

• Weddings

• Engagement ceremonies

• Baby showers

• Naming ceremonies

• Housewarming functions

• Temple rituals

• Festival poojas

• Religious offerings

Instead of plastic covers, many families now prefer handmade crochet Thamboolam bags because they are:

• Eco friendly

• Reusable

• Visually attractive

• Respectful to tradition

• Suitable as keepsakes

People value them because they are not just packaging - they become part of the memory of the function. Many hosts now choose handmade Thamboolam bags to give a more personal and artistic touch to their events.

Custom Orders and Bulk Work

I mainly focus on small and medium sized handmade items so that they remain affordable and reachable for more people. Large items require more time and cost, which can make selling difficult. However, I accept bulk orders for Thamboolam bags and silk thread bangles for functions and ceremonies.

Since every item is handmade, delivery time depends on size and quantity. For example:

• Small size bulk orders may take around two months

• Larger crochet bag orders may take up to three months

I also balance my time between creating and teaching art, so I ensure every order receives proper attention and finishing quality.

Teaching Art and Craft

Apart from creating, I also teach art and craft to learners. I provide recorded online classes instead of live sessions, so students can learn at their own pace.

My classes include:

• Basic silk thread bangle making

• Crochet beginner courses with multiple projects

My teaching language is primarily Tamil, and I also support English explanations when needed. I enjoy teaching beginners and children because it helps pass creative skills to the next generation.

My View on Art as a Career

Building a career in art is not easy. From my experience, many people think art is only for the rich because handcrafted work takes time and carries cost. Because of this mindset, it can be difficult for artists to earn steadily.

But I believe art should not belong only to one class of people. By creating useful, affordable, and traditional handmade products, I try to make art part of everyday celebrations and rituals.

For me, art is not just decoration. It is devotion, patience, emotion, and cultural continuity expressed through handwork.