Understanding Contemporary Craft Businesses as a consequence of neo-liberalization: A study from Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

This is the study of Contemporary Craft Businesses of Tamil Nadu, India. The management of craft goods involves re-conceptualization of the cultural meanings, manufacturing, selling of the cultural goods and creation of ‘niche’ consumer society. This is a negotiated practice between the cultural intermediaries and the artisans. The thesis takes up Garnham’s political economy approach (1998, 2002) to place this investigation. Garnham urges the cultural studies research to hold hands with the political economy approach to understand the various structural influences onto the various cultural production processes. This research sees the growth of Contemporary Craft Businesses because of the neo-liberalization and globalisation in India.