Stories

As the vibrant festival of Onam nears, the story of King Mahabali and Lord Vamana is joyfully recounted in Malayali homes. But beyond this well-known tale lies the captivating story of the Onavillu, a cherished artifact steeped in tradition. The Onavillu, a beautifully crafted bow embellished with scenes from Lord Vishnu’s ten incarnations (Dasavatharam), has a legendary origin. Crafted by Vishwakarma, the divine architect, this bow was created at the...

The brass uruli, a traditional Indian bowl, shines with cultural and aesthetic value. Filled with manjadi seeds—symbolizing prosperity—and adorned with a thiru udayada— a handmade decorative fabric fan, it becomes a potent emblem of abundance, good luck and prosperity. During festive celebrations, this arrangement adds a divine touch, enhancing the festive spirit.

Timeless Treasures: The Weaves of Balaramapuram and Kuthampully. Balaramapuram and Kuthampully handlooms are renowned for their rich tradition and craftsmanship in Indian textile art. Located in Kerala, Balaramapuram is a small town in the Thiruvananthapuram district, while Kuthampully is a village in the Thrissur district. Both regions boast a long history of weaving that dates back several centuries. Balaramapuram and Kuthampully handlooms focus on crafting traditional Kerala sarees and Mundum...

Deep in the heart of Kerala, the village of Aranmula is home to a timeless treasure: the Aranmula Kannadi. These handcrafted metal mirrors, made from a secret alloy, reflect more than just images—they capture the soul of Kerala’s artistic heritage. Unlike ordinary mirrors, each Aranmula Kannadi is a masterpiece, created through centuries-old techniques passed down by master artisans. What makes the Aranmula Kannadi truly special is its deep connection to...