Thiruvananthapuram: Self reliance and hard-work are the secret behind all great undertakings, Mahatma Gandhi once said. His idea of Khadi is now getting an icon of endurance and self-reliance in Kerala. Hanan, the fish-selling college student who fancied modelling and silver-screen, is its new face. The 20-year-old is all set to be the show-stopper of the Khadi fashion show, being organized as part of the Khadi Board's Onam-Bakrid expo 2018.

Chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan honoured the Kochi girl at a function at Kanakakunnu in Thiruvananthapuram on Wednesday.

Responding to the offer, Hanan told the media that she was extremely proud to showcase a brand which was built on the hard work of several rural women. “Many rural Indian women find their income from the mills under Khadi Board. By showcasing Khadi products, I am joining their struggle to secure better living conditions,” she said. Hanan also expressed her gratitude to Khadi Board for giving her such an opportunity.

Shobhana George's 'Sakhavu brand' to rule annual expo

Khadi Board vice-president Shobhana George has lent a new-gen touch to the annual state Khadi expo this year. Named 'Sakhavu,' she has introduced an exclusive clothing brand for youngsters from the house of Khadi. Shobhana George told Onmanorama that she intended to attract youngsters to Khadi products through this new venture. “Brand 'Sakhavu' will have shirts and dhothis designed in dark, vibrant colours and designs. It will have denim products like jeans, jackets and tops for female customers,” she said. She said the 'khadi purdah' which the board had introduced last year was a hit.

Speaking of Hanan's role in the exhibition, Shobhana said the board was trying to reach out to youngsters and be their trendsetter.“The board intends to venture into the school uniform market,” she added.

The Khadi Board makes a profit of around Rs 80 crore during the Onam-Bakrid season.