Founder Of Nalli Silks, Who Resisted Automation, Dedicates Award To Weavers

India-West News Desk

CHENNAI – Industrialist and philanthropist Nalli Kuppuswami Chetti dedicated his Padma Bhushan to weavers and their families, recognizing their crucial role in his success.

The Nalli legacy began in 1928 when Kuppuswami Chetti’s grandfather, Nalli Chinnasamy Chetti, founded the iconic silk saree store in Chennai, India. A skilled weaver from the Padmasali community, Chinnasamy Chetti had been weaving silk sarees since 1900. After his passing in 1958, his grandson, Kuppuswami Chetti, took over the business and transformed it into a household name.

The owner of Nalli Silks, who previously received the Padma Shri in 2003, described the moment,  as one of the happiest of his life. “I was very happy when I saw it on TV. In 2003, I became the first person from the weaver community to receive this honor. Even then, I told the press that this recognition was due to the efforts, quality, and dedication of our weavers. That’s why I dedicate this award to them,” he said.

Kuppuswami Chetti is known for his unique marketing strategies, such as designing sarees inspired by current events and films. He also maintained a firm stance against bank loans and refused to automate his stores with power looms, choosing to uphold traditional weaving techniques. Under his leadership, Nalli expanded internationally, with stores in India, the United States, Singapore, and Canada.

The brand has long been a favorite of prominent figures, including legendary Carnatic singer M.S. Subbulakshmi and former Indian President Dr. Rajendra Prasad.

Chetti attributed his business success to three core principles: honesty, quality, and timely delivery. Reflecting on his journey, he revealed that he initially wanted to study history and pursue law but joined the family business after his father’s passing.

“I told my father I would complete my studies before joining the shop. But after he passed away, my path changed. By God’s grace, the principles of truth, quality, and timely delivery have brought the business to where it is today,” he said.

At 84, Chetti also had a message for the younger generation: “Don’t do business or take a job just for money. Love what you do, and success will follow.” (with ANI input)

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