In a burst of creativity and environmental passion, Maria Kuriakose brought Thenga Coco to life. This 2019 startup weaves discarded coconut shells into eco-friendly treasures that transcend the ordinary. Departing her corporate role, Maria embarked on a journey to transform coconut waste into everyday marvels—cups, saucers, soap dishes, and cutlery.
While others overlooked coconut shells, Maria saw their hidden potential during a poignant visit to a local processing unit. Abandoned and destined for incineration, the shells sparked her imagination. Determined to unlock their value, she delved into the research, only to discover handicrafts as the prevailing outcome—a pricey art form reserved for skilled craftsmen.
Unyielding, Maria envisioned practicality and accessibility. Thenga Coco would channel the versatility of coconut shells into everyday companions. Though demanding in production, these creations didn’t hinge on artistic finesse but rather on the power of purpose.

Over just two years, Thenga Coco blossomed into an eco-conscious enterprise, spreading its wings to offer 4,000 to 5,000 coconut shell products each month. News outlets buzzed with the success, estimating revenue of approximately Rs 7-8 lakhs—an impressive feat indeed.

Maria’s heart yearned to ignite a sustainable revolution, urging individuals to embrace eco-friendly choices. As the world awakened to environmental concerns, the demand for Thenga Coco’s offerings surged. The future gleamed with promise as Maria dreamed of expanding the product line and bolstering production capacity to meet the ever-growing appetite for their transformative creations.
Thenga Coco—is a testament to the artistry and ingenuity that emerges when we refuse to overlook the discarded and instead nurture nature’s untapped wonders.