A remarkable modern product of this ancient stream is, Rajan. A man in his forties, he was born as one of nine in the family of a traditional stone sculptor, whose family moved from Kerala to Tiruchi about 150 years ago. Rajan had completed his pre university studies when he decided to break from the family trade and study metal casting in Swamimalai. The family disowned him, but he fought his way through. I did face opposition from a few local people in Swamimalai, but there were many others who supported me.
Tradition is adhered to but modern marketing is practiced.