Flora

The Toda shawl draws from the textile traditions of the Toda community of the Nilgiris, with its lineage rooted in the puthkuzhy, the ceremonial embroidered garment worn by Toda men and women. These shawls carry the distinctive black and red embroidery that defines Toda work, shaped by an inherited language of thread counting and form.

We have worked with softer cottons to extend the embroidery into a more wearable and versatile form, while remaining attentive to the demands of the craft. The motifs are drawn from the Toda landscape—mountains, natural elements, and forest botanicals—translated into measured, geometric patterns.

Hand-embroidered over several weeks by a Toda woman artisan, each shawl reflects the pace and discipline of the work. Fully reversible, it allows the embroidery to be experienced from both sides. The shawl is accompanied by a note about the makers, offering a glimpse into the lives and practices behind the work.

Packed in a reusable ikat cotton bag, thoughtfully made by local artisans.