Its number in the catalogue is AR120. Its specs are also nondescript: it’s a single zipper bag with a width of 13.5” and a height of 14” with a strap length of 11”.
The Arayee bag
A mathematical calculation may tell you its volume is nearly 444 cubic inches, but it holds much more within.
It holds the hopes of the woman after whom it is named. Arayee, one of the 12 artisans at Thoorigai (meaning ‘quill’ in Tamil), has been with the livelihood project in Perambalur in Tamil Nadu for over 12 years, and has grown with the organization. A single mother with a daughter looking to enter college, Arayee says working with Thoorigai has given her much more than a bag. “I’d never stepped out of my house by myself before joining [Thoorigai]. Now, I travel for stalls and material purchase, and feel more confident about myself!” This, she says, has helped her set a positive example for her daughter as well.
Arayee, like other artisans in Thoorigai, consider the project their second home. “It’s not just a workplace for us. We come here every day and any problems that we have, we are able to discuss here,” she says.
She says that having a bag named after her is quite the thrill! Most artisans have a bag—typically one they are really good at making, or one they like a lot. This helps create a sense of ownership among
Thoorigai was started as an offshoot of an agriculture project called Payir, when rainfall patterns became unpredictable. The project was started as an alternative livelihood source for families in the region.
Over the years, the women have created more than 100 bag designs, and have diversified into other products such as festive thorans made from cotton and home furnishings as well.
