In a small village near Salem, Tamil Nadu, 84-year-old Chinnusami continues weaving the handloom sarees he’s perfected over six decades. Thanks to his grandson Praveen's Instagram venture started in early 2026, these traditional sarees now travel internationally, connecting generations and cultures through thread and technology.
- Six decades of handwoven sarees from Salem now shipped globally
- Instagram startup bridges a family tradition with modern markets
- Grandson and grandfather share daily rituals packed with care
What happened
In Kakapalayam village near Salem, Tamil Nadu, 84-year-old Chinnusami begins each day at his wooden loom, weaving sarees as he has done for sixty years. Despite his age and trembling hands, his passion for the craft drives him to keep creating. Meanwhile, his grandson Praveen, a final-year chemistry student, took a simple but bold step in January 2026 by launching Thatha’s Clothing on Instagram to showcase and sell his grandfather’s handiwork.
Initially unfamiliar with social media, Chinnusami was puzzled when orders for his sarees came from far-off countries like Canada, Australia, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia. Over time, he embraced this new exposure, even appearing in Instagram reels and recording thank-you messages in Tamil. Together, the two spend evenings packing shipments, blending family moments with business growth.
Why it feels good
The story shines with warmth and connection, highlighting how a traditional skill can find fresh life and appreciation through modern channels. Chinnusami’s lifelong dedication, despite limited formal education, serves as a testament to the power of craftsmanship and familial love. His grandson’s initiative adds a hopeful energy, showing how young people can honor and amplify their heritage in new ways.
Moreover, the personal bond between grandfather and grandson, who share tea and laughter while preparing each order, adds a human touch to every saree shipped. It’s a beautiful example of how family ties and cultural legacy endure, adapting with grace even as the world changes rapidly around them.
What to enjoy or watch next
Keep an eye on Thatha’s Clothing’s Instagram for more stories and reels featuring Chinnusami’s artistry and humble charm. Each post is an invitation to witness a rare blend of tradition and innovation thriving together. Fans of handwoven textiles and heartwarming family tales will find plenty to appreciate.
Looking ahead, Praveen hopes to build a proper house for his grandfather, signifying their shared dream expanding beyond the loom. This evolving journey offers a wonderful narrative that celebrates heritage, entrepreneurship, and the simple joy of dedicating oneself to craft—one saree, one stitch, one order at a time.