Naturally yours: The Auroville Boutique

Auroville Boutique Natural at Khader Nawaz Khan Road forms an integral part of the retail landscape at posh Nungambakkam for, it’s the only shop that is au natural.

Not an ordinary run-of-the-mill destination, Auroville sells not just different articles ranging from hand-made ceramic pottery to leather-wear to food, but a philosophy as well.

This boutique is part of the Auroville township in Pondicherry, and sells handmade natural products, designed by the denizens of the ashram.

What started off as a small haven for shoppers seeking an alternative purchase has only grown bigger over the years owing to its immense popularity. Auroville Boutique typically houses earthy ceramic mugs, tea sets, incense holders, scented candles, vases, handmade paper pads, colourful paper lamps, beautifully designed cut-work bedcovers and designer mirrors lined with painted wood. Their signature item includes liquid incense and agarbatti sticks, while their colourful and unusual-looking footwear are a great hit. Meditational books and CDs don the Auroville shelves as well.

In addition to lifestyle and household items, the store has a range of clothes for both sexes, all naturally dyed. They even have a little section that sells food prepared without any chemical additives or preservatives. Safely pick up from their range of jams, breads, cakes and, everyone’s hot favourite, brownies!

But do be warned, this boutique is not meant for the budget-conscious.