At the Kairali Arts and Crafts exhibition, there is a range of the famed Aranmula metal mirrors. The handmade metal-alloy mirror causes no secondary reflections or aberrations, typical of back surface mirrors. These mirrors are linked to the Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple, and is said to herald prosperity. It is made in different sizes, and the prices range from Rs 1,700 to 14,700. There are intricately crafted golden-hued metal frames in the shapes of lotus buds, peacocks, conches, swans and the sun. They have been made by a single family in Aranmula.
“It was among the first in India to get a Geographical Identification Registry (GIR) Certificate (A GIR is a name or sign used on certain products which corresponds to a specific geographical location). Materials required for its production are acquired from the local market,” says Abdul Karim, Senior Manager of the Kairali Arts and Crafts, Kochi. “Though tourists and NRIs are the ones who usually buy this, these days more people, living all over Kerala, have started to purchase them. They usually prefer smaller sizes. Thanks to regular exhibitions, the sales have been increasing every year.”
Apart from the mirrors, many other traditional handloom and handicraft products are being exhibited. They include Orissa palm engravings, of different sizes and types, depicting stories from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, the life of Lord Buddha as well as images of the Konark Sun Temple in Orissa. While framed engravings range in price from `150-450, engraved bookmarks, made of palm leaves, are available for Rs 40 and 80, depending upon its size.
Another exhibit is the Tussar silk, on which there are paintings made by using vegetable dyes and turmeric. The starting price is Rs 600. Handwoven Bengal Cotton Saris and Hyderabadi jewelry are also available. The exhibition will conclude on May 15.