Manchu Manoj and Mounika Manchu Join Hands With AP Government for Handloom and Toy Manufacturing Project

Namasthe World, the Hyderabad-based storytelling and toy startup founded by Bhuma Mounika Manchu along with actor and entrepreneur Manchu Manoj, has signed a major Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Andhra Pradesh to establish sustainable apparel, handloom and toy manufacturing centres in Kurnool and Visakhapatnam. The agreement was signed at the 31st CII Partnership Summit on Thursday, with a proposed investment of ₹36.24 crore.

The project aims to create an integrated and sustainable manufacturing ecosystem that connects traditional handloom craftsmanship with modern apparel and toy production. Under this initiative, handloom fabrics will be converted into garments, while surplus materials and leftover fabric will be used to manufacture dolls and soft toys. The two proposed facilities are expected to generate approximately 950 direct employment opportunities and another 100 indirect jobs across supply chains, logistics and related services.

Speaking about the initiative, Namasthe World Founder and CEO Bhuma Mounika Manchu said the company’s vision is to transform India’s rich cultural heritage and traditional craftsmanship into contemporary businesses with global potential. She highlighted the importance of governance, community participation and institutional support in creating sustainable opportunities for artisans. She also revealed that the company already has a retail partnership with Reliance Brands and has now joined hands with the Andhra Pradesh government to expand its operations.

Namasthe World Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer Manchu Manoj said creative industries have the potential to go beyond entertainment and storytelling by generating economic opportunities and supporting traditional sectors. He explained that the company aims to combine creativity, technology and entertainment to promote Indian craftsmanship globally and establish ‘Made in Andhra Pradesh’ as a recognised identity. He also revealed that the company is approaching leading technology firms to explore the use of artificial intelligence and robotics in traditional Etikoppaka and Kondapalli toy manufacturing.

During the summit, Namasthe World showcased its toy collection to Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal, who also launched the company’s calendar. Appreciating the brand’s approach, Piyush Goyal said that presenting Indian cultural heritage through storytelling and traditional toys could help promote India’s identity in international markets.

The initiative also received appreciation from several government representatives and public figures. Union Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu stressed the need to provide artisans with stronger platforms and better market access. Andhra Pradesh Industries and Commerce Minister T.G. Bharat welcomed the investment, stating that it aligns with the state’s vision of encouraging sustainable manufacturing, strengthening local industries and generating employment.

Andhra Pradesh Economic Development Board CEO Sagili Shan Mohan highlighted the project’s potential to promote innovation, entrepreneurship and employment generation. Commissioner of Handlooms and Textiles Rekha Rani emphasised the importance of connecting traditional artisan communities with contemporary markets while preserving their skills. BJP Andhra Pradesh State President P.V.N. Madhav also appreciated the company’s efforts to bring together art, culture and technology.

This latest agreement builds on Namasthe World’s earlier MoU with the Andhra Pradesh Economic Development Board, signed on October 26, 2026, in Tirupati. The three-year partnership focuses on promoting tourism and cultural heritage through characters, short films and QR-code-linked experiences based on the state’s traditional Etikoppaka and Kondapalli toys.

Since its launch, Namasthe World has developed more than 55 original plush toy designs and sold over 43,000 BIS-certified toys. With its expanding retail presence and international interest, the company is now looking to create a stronger connection between India’s traditional craftsmanship and global markets.

The proposed ₹36.24 crore investment is expected to provide a significant boost to Andhra Pradesh’s handloom, textile and toy industries while creating new employment opportunities and supporting local artisan communities.