Taj Khazana, the in-house lifestyle boutique chain of Taj Hotels, Resorts and Palaces, has a new location to add to its quintessentially hand-made treasure trove. The boutique at the Taj Coromandel, Chennai has undergone a makeover and the result is one quirky yet traditional store. The design is an effortless blend of vintage and contemporary aesthetics, with catchy green accents and a stately wooden door with intricate design-work reminiscent of South Indian temples.

The boutique showcases beautiful, handmade Indian products along with some chic designer-wear. The focus of Taj Khazana has always been the promotion of local artisans and their work. As a result, one can find lovely, raw silk saris in eye-catching colours and pleasing bed linen sitting pretty beside gold and silver jewellery made with traditional, South Indian workmanship. Special touches of traditional Chennai life are present in the jute pouches filled with coffee and idli powder, along with hand-woven, chequered plastic baskets reminiscent of those grandmothers carried to the markets.

Even the walls have been wallpapered with printed, black and white photographs of the city from years gone by. Also hard to miss is the large, bright green cycle-rickshaw at one corner. It has been revamped to serve as a table holding miniature paintings, bejewelled clutches and mother of pearl candle holders. The fun factor continues with French macaroon-shaped measuring tapes and jewellery made of leather and enamel. Cufflinks, silk ties and contemporary clothing for men are also available.

The cynosure of the store is however, a wall of dried coconuts enclosed in a green metal frame that captures the city's feel with a twist.

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