Poompuhar (Government Emporium)

Established in 1973 as the retail arm of the Tamil Nadu Handicrafts Development Corporation, Poompuhar is named after the ancient port city of Kaveripattinam and was set up to preserve the state's traditional crafts while supporting local artisans. Poompuhar has its own stone sculpture manufacturing centre at Mahabalipuram, in addition to production units at Swamimalai for bronze icons and Kallakuruchi for sandalwood carving. The emporium stocks Kanjivaram silk sarees, Tanjore paintings, brass lamps, bronze deities, rosewood carvings, and temple jewellery at fixed prices.