Kerala Handicrafts

Everything about Kerala is enchanting, including its handicrafts which are simply irresistible. Handicrafts in the state are generally taken on as traditional family business or as mere passion by the adroit artist class who nurture immense interest in the field of art. Kerala excels in making attractive handicrafts with ivory, bamboo, palm leaves, seashells, wood, coconut shells, clay, cloth, metals, stone etc. Many old handicraft masterpieces can be spotted in the palaces, old heritage homes and museums of this state.

The dexterous artists are proficient in making beautiful flower vases, ash trays, ornamental plates, jewel boxes, miniature boats, elephants, idols, kathakali masks, embroidery works etc with ethnic as well as modern looks. The props like the head gears and costumes, especially required for classical and conventional arts, are exclusively made by skillful artists. They use the easily accessible turmeric, powdered rice, powdered leaves of acacia for making exquisite colors and their combination for painting faces of performers, which stands as an outstanding example of handicrafts of Kerala.

More than an art, the handicrafts have developed into a small scale industry in Kerala. The processes of manufacturing, selling and exporting are gradually growing and at present there are many organizations, which offer schooling in handicrafts.

The handicrafts of Kerala mirror its rich cultural heritage. Scan the markets of this wonderful destination for a variety of handicrafts and take back home some beautiful handicrafts:

• Brass and bell metal lamps
• Coir and cane products
• Ivory ware
• Lacquer ware
• Sandalwood objects
• Wooden toys
• Silk saris