Coimbatore: The Unmatched City of Wet Grinders in Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu's Coimbatore has earned a prestigious reputation for being the bustling hub of wet grinder manufacturing, thanks to its fascinating history and remarkable industrial advancements. The city's journey with wet grinders dates back to the 1950s and has since evolved into one of the most significant industries not only in India but also in the global kitchen appliance market.
Origins and Development of Wet Grinders in Coimbatore
The history of wet grinders in Coimbatore is intrinsically tied to the ingenuity and innovation of its people. A pivotal moment in this history came when a father-in-law, who was also an engineer, observed his newly-wed daughter-in-law struggling with traditional grinding methods. These methods were not only time-consuming but also labor-intensive, requiring constant supervision. Determined to make the process easier and more efficient, he devised an innovative solution that led to the first electric wet grinder, which became immensely popular during the 1960s and 1970s.
Key Innovators and Milestones
The journey of the wet grinder industry in Coimbatore is a tale of innovation and entrepreneurship. P. Sabapathy, a visionary entrepreneur, designed and manufactured the first electric wet grinder in the 1950s through his company, Electron Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. According to historian CR Elangovan, who authored the book Automatic Aataangal: Kovaiyin Seethanam, the invention was driven by Sabapathy's desire to ease the workload for his bride-to-be in the kitchen. The process involved numerous iterations, transforming a simple grinding stone into a sophisticated machine with features like zinc sheets and electroplated sheets, which preserved the batter and prevented spillages.
Coimbatore's Industrial Contribution
Coimbatore's reputation as the Manchester of South India is deeply intertwined with its wet grinder manufacturing industry. The city's history as a textile hub provided a fertile ground for the development of other industries, including electric motors and pumps, which are integral components of wet grinders. The availability of foundries and textile mills created a robust ecosystem that supported the production of wet grinders. Over 150 wet grinder manufacturers now operate in Coimbatore, contributing significantly to the local economy and generating employment for thousands of residents.
Scale and Impact
The industry's impact is evident in the sheer number of wet grinders produced. More than 300 manufacturers in and around Coimbatore now produce wet grinders, with a Geographical Indication tag, ensuring that the quality and craftsmanship remain unparalleled. The industry employs over 16,000 people, showcasing the city's immense entrepreneurial spirit and engineering expertise. Moreover, wet grinders have revolutionized the food-processing industry, making it easier for households to prepare traditional South Indian dishes like dosas and idlis.
Modern Innovations and Future Prospects
In recent years, the wet grinder industry in Coimbatore has seen several innovative developments. Around 15 people contributed to the improvement of the original model, leading to the introduction of tilting wet grinders in the 1970s, such as the popular Lakshmi Grinders. These models eliminated the need to lift the heavy stone, making the process more user-friendly. Furthermore, brands like Santha and ELGI Ultra have introduced advanced grinders with conical grinding stones and innovative engineering solutions, ensuring that batter stays fresh for longer. These innovations have not only enhanced the functionality of wet grinders but also solidified Coimbatore's position as a technological leader in the industry.
The industry's growth has also attracted motor manufacturers like AVE Motors and Crompton Motors to establish their bases in Coimbatore, thereby further boosting the local economy. Today, Coimbatore exports wet grinders to countries like Dubai, Singapore, and Malaysia, and supplies spare parts across the nation. With the industry's focus on sustainable and innovative solutions, it is poised to thrive for many more decades, continuing to play a vital role in the culinary landscape of Tamil Nadu and beyond.