Founded in 2019 by Maria Kuriakose, Thenga Coco is a women-led startup from Kerala that transforms discarded coconut shells into handcrafted, sustainable home products. Inspired by her roots and Kerala’s identity as the “land of coconuts,” Maria returned from Mumbai to build a brand that supports the agricultural sector while reducing waste.
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Thenga began with a simple idea — to repurpose coconut shells that were otherwise discarded or burned. From the first handcrafted coconut shell bowl to exporting products abroad, the brand has grown steadily, retailing across India and reaching conscious consumers worldwide.
Each Thenga product is handmade in small batches by women artisans in Palakkad, Kerala. Cut, polished, and crafted to perfection, the bowls, cups, and homeware items reveal the natural grain of the shell. They are durable, eco-friendly, and designed to last for decades, making them perfect substitutes for plastic.
The brand’s philosophy is rooted in reuse and repurpose. By saving coconut shells from landfills and turning them into practical products, Thenga literally transforms “trash into treasure.” Since its inception, the company has saved over 53,000 coconut shells, giving them a new life as sustainable homeware.
Thenga is more than a product brand — it is a social enterprise. By employing over 16 women permanently and supporting many others in rural Kerala, the brand generates steady income and empowers communities through craft-based livelihoods.
The coconut palm, often called the tree of life, has always been integral to Kerala’s culture. While coconut oil and water are widely valued, shells were often overlooked. Thenga changes that narrative, proving that every part of the coconut can be used meaningfully.
For customers, Thenga offers guilt-free shopping. Unlike mass-produced items, these products are close to nature, sustainable, and crafted with care. They appeal to conscious consumers who want everyday items that reflect responsibility and authenticity.
Looking ahead, Thenga aims to expand its reach further, continuing to build a brand that is sustainable, original, and handcrafted. By combining tradition with modern design, Thenga is redefining how waste can be turned into value — one coconut shell at a time.
