A Basket Woven with Strength, Love, and Hope

In the heart of Perungudi, Chennai, resilience takes the form of M. Balakrishnan, a determined 16-year-old, and his mother, M. Solai Ammal, a woman of extraordinary strength. Their story is not just about survival—it's about perseverance, love, and the power of handmade craftsmanship.

A year ago, tragedy struck when Balakrishnan’s father, S. Muthu, a skilled carpenter, passed away, leaving behind a family grappling with emotional and financial struggles. But in the face of hardship, Solai Ammal refused to give up. Juggling three demanding jobs—basket weaving, assisting patients with Down syndrome, and housekeeping—she works tirelessly to give her children a future filled with hope.

Why Every Thalir-LEED Basket Matters

For Solai Ammal, basket weaving is not just a livelihood—it’s her legacy. Each basket takes over a day to craft, every knot tied with patience, skill, and determination. She hand-weaves 13 to 15 baskets a month, all sold through Thalir-LEED, a self-help group that empowers women artisans like her. These aren’t just baskets; they are symbols of sacrifice, love, and resilience, woven by hands that refuse to break under pressure.

Her son Balakrishnan, despite the weight of responsibilities, excels in his studies and has earned a black belt in Karate. His older sister contributes to the family’s well-being, working at Policy Bazaar to lighten their mother’s burden. Together, they stand strong, proving that even in the face of loss, unity and determination can build a better future.

Your Purchase, Their Empowerment

Every time you buy a Thalir-LEED basket, you’re not just getting a beautifully handcrafted product—you’re supporting a hardworking mother, a dedicated son, and a family striving for a better tomorrow. You become part of their journey, ensuring that artisans like Solai Ammal continue to weave not just baskets, but dreams.

Let’s transform lives, one basket at a time.