The Legacy Of Aranmula Kannadi

Dive into the traditional artistry and cultural significance of creating the Aranmula mirrors through the documentary content “The Legacy Of Aranmula Kannadi”.

Aranmula attests to the great legacy of the Vishwakarma family, who traveled from Tamil Nadu to Kerala around 500 years ago. With their arrival came the renowned Aranmula mirror, a highly popular invention that has come to represent the artistic and cultural excellence of the area. This mirror, which is made of a special metal alloy, is renowned for both its reflecting beauty and the closely-kept secret surrounding its manufacturing process—a custom that has been passed down through the years.

Beyond its obvious beauty, the Aranmula mirror has a rich history filled with mythology and the support of famous individuals like Indian Prime Ministers and cricket greats like Sachin Tendulkar. It represents the continuing craftsmanship and cultural history of the Vishwakarma family in Aranmula, and its value goes far beyond its practical use.

The Pandalam king called upon these craftsmen centuries ago to create an unmatched beauty of a crown for the Aranmula temple using their extraordinary talents. Inspired by their kindness, the king gave the artists a seat of honor next to the temple’s sacred grounds and dedicated this crown to it. The act not only enhanced the temple’s splendor but also guaranteed the safety and dignity of the workers, establishing a legacy of creative brilliance that continues to this day.

The making of the Aranmula mirror is a detailed and traditional process. It starts by mixing soil to create a mold. Then covering this mold with another layer of soil and add metal pieces as needed for hardness. A fire dries the mold. Once it is dry, an opening is made in the mold, and a mix of tin and copper is placed inside. An individual covers the mold with soil again and dries it in a fire furnace. Afterward, they break the mold to reveal the base mirror.

The next steps involve preparing the frame. We cut and polish brass sheets several times to achieve a smooth finish. We craft designs onto the frame and thoroughly clean it.

In the last step, we fix and polish the base mirror in another mold to ensure a secure grip and achieve a perfect reflection. Then, fixing the mirror into the brass frame using the special type of glue with a mix of soil and rubber. The completed mirror undergoes additional cleaning before being ready for sale. This complicated process, passed down through generations, ensures that each Aranmula mirror is a unique work of art, reflecting the rich heritage and craftsmanship of the region.

In conclusion, the Aranmula mirror stands as a testament to both tradition and craftsmanship. Originating from Aranmula’s legacy 500 years ago, this mirror is not just a piece of reflective metal but a symbol of Aranmula’s pride and heritage. Appreciated by notable figures and crafted through a careful process involving unique alloys and traditional methods, each mirror embodies centuries of skill and culture. From the careful molding of its base to the complex framing and final polishing, every step reflects the dedication and artistry passed down through generations. The Aranmula mirror remains a timeless treasure, revered for its beauty, craftsmanship, and the undergo stories woven into its creation.

Copyrights: All the photos and text in this post are the copyright of  Harikrishnan V K and Creative Hut Institute of Photography. Their reproduction, full or part, is forbidden without the explicit approval of the rightful owners.