Korai grass mat production by SEVAI-OFI under Kalkari project.

Korai mat weaving, a traditional craft of rural Tamil Nadu, is being revived at SEVAI Centre, Amoor, with support from SEVAI-OFI under the Kalkari Project. Using eco-friendly Korai reed, cultivated as a cash crop in Amoor, local women are trained in modern designs while preserving traditional techniques. The process includes seven steps: harvesting mature grass after 6–8 months, sun-drying until golden brown, sorting and stripping fibers, softening by soaking and beating, optional dyeing, weaving into mats, bags, or décor, and finishing with trimming, pressing, and quality checks. This initiative generates employment for trained women, providing sustainable income, boosting confidence, and creating market-ready products for local, urban, and export sale. Korai sleeping mats, in particular, are cool, comfortable, eco-friendly, durable, lightweight, and portable. They offer health benefits with firm support, preserve cultural heritage, and are multi-purpose—ideal for sleeping, seating, yoga, meditation, or as stylish floor décor. 🌿Govin