Aranmula Kannadi, meaning the Aranamula mirror, is a handmade metal - alloy mirror, made in Aranmula in state of Kerala, India. Aranmula mirror are the most unique 300 year old Metal Mirror.

Kerala

The Metal Mirrors of Aranmula Kannadi

Mirroring Kerala's unique craftsmanship

Aranmula Kannadi, meaning the Aranamula mirror, is a handmade metal - alloy mirror, made in Aranmula in state of Kerala, India. Aranmula mirror are the most unique 300 year old Metal Mirror.
map


In god’s own country

The southern Indian state of Kerala is famed for its captivating landscapes. Under the swaying canopy of palm groves, the backwaters glimmer with dancing sunrays. Traditional houseboats glide through at a languid pace. Emerald isles are touched by the sapphire waves of the Arabian Sea every few seconds. It is easy to see why Kerala is called ‘god’s own country’.

In this lush coastal paradise, a deep reverence for the gods and nature is observed. Splendid temples of architectural magnificence are centres of spirituality. The gods here often pleased with artistic performances and crafts. This spirit of Kerala is perfectly captured by the small temple town of Aranmula which houses the unique metal mirror treasures known as the Aranmula Kannadi. 

The enigma of Aranmula Kannadi

A rather interesting legend surrounds the origins of Aranmula Kannadi, which begins 400 years ago. At the time, the chief priest of the Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple, who was a great patron of arts and crafts brought a few families of Kannans or bronze casters from Tamil Nadu’s Tirunelveli district. Their task was simple – to make bell metal vessels for the temple. However, the Kannans created an alloy that resembled silver, but when polished, it shone and reflected the world around just like a mirror. This was seen as a magic of the divine. This wondrous alloy was offered to the temple deity and was soon included among the Ashtamangalyam – the eight auspicious articles used in religious ceremonies. The mirror offered to the deity is till date refered to as Kannadi Bimbam (idol of mirror). From then on the Aranmula Kannadi started gaining fame across the region along with deep religious significance. The technique of casting these metal mirrors has remained a closely guarded secret, known to only few male members of the Kannans community, passed down through generations as knowledge from fathers to their sons.

Crafting metal mirrors

Unlike normal mirrors, Aranmula Kannadi are made using a secret alloy created through an amalgamation of an array of elements such as Copper, Tin, Lead, Zinc, Phosphorous, Iron, Silicon, Aluminium, Nickel, Bismuth, and Antimony. The shape of the mirror takes form through casting metal utilizing the lost wax technique. A clay mould is prepared by artisans, who sculpt ornate designs into wax and then cover it with clay. The liquid form of metal alloy is poured in this mould; the heat of the liquid melts the wax and the metal takes its place instead. The alloy is heated for about 8 hours and allowed to cool for 2-3 days.

How exactly the metal is transformed into mirror? This is a secret of the Kannans. As per local myths a special herbal powder is added to the molten metal which makes it reflective in nature. What is known for sure is that creating an Aranmula Kannadi is a laborious process with each mirror being handcrafted, polished, and inscribed over a span of 6 months. The mirrors are a treat to the eyes; their frames decorated with meticulous chisels featuring traditional designs.


Aranmula Kannadi, meaning the Aranamula mirror, is a handmade metal - alloy mirror, made in Aranmula in state of Kerala, India. Aranmula mirror are the most unique 300 year old Metal Mirror.

More information

Kerala

Cultural significance

Aranmula Kannadi mirrors have enormous cultural and religious significance. They are often gifted to near and dear ones as a symbol of love, respect and goodwill. The mirrors are believed to bring good luck and prosperity to its owner. It often features designs resembling the god, the most popular being the Ganesha design. They are an integral component of Ashtmangalyam offerings made at the Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple. The unmatched splendour, fine craftsmanship and religious significance led to the craft being granted the Geographical Indications (GI) tag by the Indian Government in 2005.

A unique souvenir

The bronze alloy mirrors of Aranmula Kannadis are rightly believed to be magic mirrors. The making of these metal mirrors can be observed in, and even purchased from, any of the numerous workshops across the 10 villages of Aranmula Panchayat where gifted artisans craft these mirrors. As you explore Kerala's serene backwaters and vibrant culture, don't forget to take home a piece of this enthralling land with you. Aranmula Kannadi represent the traditions and values of Kerala through their inimitable craftsmanship. They make for perfect souvenirs and decorative showpieces which can elevate any space with their sheer elegance and magnificence.