Aranmula Kannadi

Aranmula Kannadi is a metallic mirror, created from an alloy of copper and tin. Made in Aranmula village (Pathanamthitta district) in Kerala, the frame consists of pure brass. Since these mirrors are not made of glass, they do not crack if they fall. They form a part of the eight items or ashtamangalyam considered to be auspicious items of a bride's wedding trousseau in Kerala. The exact process of the making of this special mirror continues to be a closely guarded secret between practicing artisans of the Vishwakarma family, and it is believed that the mirrors bring good luck to the owners.

An intriguing blend of beauty and metallurgical technique, the origins of this craft are connected to the Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple (with references to as early as the Vedic period in Indian history). In the Puranas, the mirror has been described as belonging to goddess Parvati. Interestingly, the British Museum in London has an aranmula kannadi in its collection, which is 45 centimeters in length.

This inherited object is used to adorn people's homes and adds joy to celebrations. These one-of-a-kind mirrors also received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2004-05.

Contributed By :

Athira Raj