Visalakshi Ramaswamy’s Manjal is an explosion of colours. The author-entrepreneur aims to shine the spotlight on rural crafts, textiles and architecture through her nonprofit organisation, M.Rm.Rm. Cultural Foundation, and store. One of them is the art of kottan or traditional basket weaving from Chettinad, a craft that was once fading into oblivion. Handmade by women from villages in the region, Manjal’s products (bags, boxes, trays and baskets) are colourful, functional and chic, and make for great gifts.