Fragrant way to beat heat

KANPUR: With frequent power cuts and mercury rising above 42 degree Celsius, khus curtain-makers are doing a brisk business in the city. The scorching weather conditions have increased the demand for the traditional, eco-friendly cooling curtains, locally referred to as ‘chatai’. Though the availability of coolers and air-conditioners at cheaper rates has affected the business, lady luck has apparently smiled on these petty vendors, who are making good profit this year.
The makers of these ‘traditional curtains’ have prepared a variety of curtains made of different materials in order to cater to their big demand. These include `chic' made of bamboo and cloth, fancy mats made of bamboo, cloth and coloured threads and `chics' made of khus.
Chic maker, Dileep Raj, said that the availability of coolers and air-conditioners at cheaper rates has undoubtedly affected their business but recurrent power cuts have proved to be a boon for them. “Khus curtains and mats are selling like hot cakes this year, helping us to revive the traditional business. Because of soaring temperature and untimely power cuts, people are now switching to the age-old techniques of keeping their houses cold during summers. We have a variety of mats with different costs and styles to cater to our customers,” said Raj, who is among the 50 families that earn their livelihood by making these curtains from ages.
These curtain makers are placed in GT Road and near the railway station. `Khus' is an aromatic grass, which acts as a natural coolant. Khus screens, when sprinkled with water, keep hot winds at bay and make the house cool. These screens also lend a pleasant fragrance to the house and act as natural aromatisers. Their cost depends on their size. For example, bamboo chic costs Rs. 15 per sq feet, while khus curtains come for Rs. 8 per sq feet. The designer mats cost Rs. 35 per sq feet. “Frequent power cuts have rendered electrical appliances quite useless. Though they are available at cheaper rates, there is no point having them when they cannot be used. The time has come to go back to the basics and khus curtains fit the scheme of things beautifully,” said, a local.
For some, the natural screens are a way of beautifying their houses, helping some to make a green statement. “Khus curtains give a soothing look to your house from outside. Retro look is in fashion! The khus curtains are not only a cheaper cooling system but they are also good for our health and environment. Placing them in the balcony keeps my house cool and fresh,” said Riddhima, a home maker.