Aranmula Kanadi:The Traditional Mirror of Kerala

Aranmula Kanadi: The Traditional Mirror of Kerala

Aranmula Kanadi, also known as the Aranmula metal mirror, is a distinctive craft produced in Kerala.

It is thought to have started some 500 years ago in the village of Aranmula in Kerala, India, using an alloy of copper and tin.

The significance of Aranmula Kanadi, its history, and the method of production will all be covered in this article.

History of Aranmula Kanadi.

A group of artisans moved to the village of Aranmula in Kerala from Sankarankovil in Tamil Nadu in the sixteenth century, beginning the history of Aranmula Kanadi.

These craftsmen carried with them their mastery of mirror-making and metallurgy.

The artisans quickly began producing mirrors using a special copper-and-tin alloy they termed "bell metal." These mirrors were given as gifts to kings and queens because of their high worth and clarity as reflective quality.

Production Process of Aranmula Kanadi.

The manufacture of Aranmula Kanadi is a multi-stage, labor-intensive procedure.The alloy must first be prepared, which is done by melting copper and tin together in a furnace.

The frame of the mirror is made by the artists using a technique known as "lost wax casting," which entails making a wax model of the frame and then encasing it in clay.The remaining mould is then utilised to cast the metal frame after the wax has been melted away.A mould constructed of clay and charcoal powder is then filled with the molten alloy.

After being let to cool for several hours, after which it is broken to reveal the mirror.

The mirror is then polished with a series of grinding stones, a compound of clay, saffron, and oil, giving it a high degree of clarity and a brilliant finish. Then, using a pointed instrument, elaborate motifs are carved onto the mirror.

Hindu mythology serves as the main source of inspiration for the designs, which frequently feature peacocks, peacock imagery, and other motifs. The absence of a reflecting coating like modern mirrors makes the Aranmula Kanadi one of its most distinctive characteristics.

Instead, the mirror's surface has been meticulously polished so that it flawlessly reflects light.

As a result, the mirror has a singular and genuine reflection that is unmatched by any other.

Significance of Aranmula Kanadi

Aranmula Kanadi is not just a mirror, but a cultural symbol of Kerala. It is frequently utilised in religious rituals and ceremonies since it is regarded as auspicious. According to folklore, the mirror has the ability to fend off bad luck and fight off evil. Owning an Aranmula Kanadi is reportedly a sign of affluence and social standing.

Aranmula Kanadi is a tribute to the talent and workmanship of Keralan artisans in addition to its cultural value. The government of India has certified the mirror as a Geographical Indication (GI) product, which implies that only mirrors produced in the village of Aranmula may bear the name Aranmula Kanadi.

The Future of Aranmula Kanadi

Considering its importance to culture and history, the art of creating Aranmula Kanadi is currently suffering a number of difficulties.There is a dearth of appropriate training facilities and marketing opportunities, and the new generation of artisans are not interested in carrying on the legacy.

The market is swamped with less expensive Aranmula Kanadi knockoffs manufactured of plastic and other materials, making it challenging for the traditional artists to compete.

Nonetheless, the government and non-governmental organisations are taking a number of steps to promote and protect the art of Aranmula Kanadi.Better training facilities and market connections are being made available to the craftsmen, and initiatives are being conducted to raise public awareness of the value of traditional crafts and their economic potential.

As a result, Aranmula Kanadi is a distinctive art that is more than simply a mirror; it is a representation of Kerala's culture.The mirror, which is widely prized for its clarity and reflected qualities, is a monument to the skill and workmanship of Keralan artisans.

To maintain and promote the trade for future generations, however, there are a number of obstacles that must be overcome.