What is Bhavani Jamakkalam?

The Bhavani Jamakkalam is a handwoven rug and blanket from Bhavani, Erode district. It is woven on wooden pit looms, and the korvai hand technique can weave letters or figures into it.

• GI tag granted by the Government of India in 2005.
• About 1,500 people work in the craft, around two-thirds of them women.
• Exported to Sweden, Germany, Italy, the UK, the US and Singapore; IKEA has bought them since 1993.
• One of the most sold products at Erode's Gani Market.

Cheaper powerloom rugs from Solapur look similar. Ask for pit-loom handwoven pieces from Bhavani.