Toda Work Bag

₹1,690

Tax included. Shipping calculated at checkout.

2 in stock

This hand-embroidered college bag is a great eco-friendly alternative to paper or plastic bags. Hardy and beautiful, this bag is available in red or black. Fair trade certified, your purchase supports the Toda community of the Nilgiris.

The pattern on the actual product may differ from the image. No pattern is repeated, making each product special and unique!

Dimensions: Length - 35 cm, Breadth - 40 cm

Color: Black

Black Red

Product variants

Ingredients

Unique Honey Rainbow

Other Details

This Toda embroidery is a strong cultural identity of the people and signifies the exchange of products and services. The Toda community faced the issue of meeting the demands of the market without compromising on the cultural symbolism of their craft. In 2008 the work to getting the Toda embroidery under Geographic Indication (GI) was undertaken with the help of Winlexis from Bangalore and 2013 Keystone finally successfully advocated for getting the GI mark for Toda Embroidery.

A geographical indication (GI) is a name or sign used on certain products which correspond to a specific geographical location or origin (e.g. a town, region, or a country). The use of GI may act as a certification that the product possesses certain qualities, is made according to traditional methods or enjoys a certain reputation, due to its geographical origin.

Get a unique perspective on embroidery of the Toda community through these products. Hand embroidered to perfection, the community has been maneuvering with this traditional method of embroidery where every single pattern is unique!

The design has a Geographical Indication, meaning the design solely belongs to the Toda community and cannot be replicated by anyone else. Only a very few women belonging to the community are involved in the embroidery process, making this a part of cultural history!

Color: Black

Black Red

Product information

'Pioneering sustainable living choices by

connecting communities and markets'

Based in Kotagiri in the heart of the Nilgiri mountains, our brand has been a market facilitator for wild forest produce that is harvested by indigenous communities since 1995. These communities are value adding forest and agriculture products, which are natural, wild and local. We believe that the spirit of the forest is about growth that is meaningful, balanced and contributing.

Frequently Asked QuestionsAny Questions? We got you covered!

What is Toda embroidery?

Toda embroidery is a traditional form of hand embroidery practiced by the Toda indigenous community in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, India. It involves the creation of intricate geometric patterns and motifs on shawls and other textile items.

What are the origins of Toda embroidery?

Toda embroidery has ancient origins dating back centuries. It is an integral part of Toda culture and is believed to have been passed down through generations.

What are the typical motifs used in Toda embroidery?

Toda embroidery is known for its distinctive motifs, including angular and geometric designs, small circles, squares, and lines. The use of red and black threads is common in their embroidery work.

How can one support the preservation of Toda embroidery and the Toda community?

To support the preservation of Toda embroidery and the Toda community, consider purchasing authentic Toda embroidered products from sources that directly benefit the community. Additionally, raising awareness about Toda culture and its unique embroidery traditions can contribute to their preservation. The Toda embroidery of the Nilgiris is Geographical Indication (GI) certified, meaning the design of the Toda embroidery cannot be replicated by anyone else.

What are the techniques involved in Toda embroidery?

Toda embroidery involves two main stitches: the running stitch and the cross-stitch. These stitches are used to create the intricate geometric patterns seen in Toda shawls and other textile items.

What is the cultural significance of Toda embroidery?

Toda embroidery holds immense cultural significance among the Toda community. It is not only a form of artistic expression but also represents the identity and cultural heritage of the Toda people.

What are the techniques involved in Toda embroidery?

It Starts With You