Kerala is renowned worldwide for its scenic backwaters, beaches, hill stations, and rich cultural heritage. Arts and crafts in Kerala reflect the land’s cultural heritage, which includes influences from both Dravidian and Aryan cultures.
The various art forms in Kerala are known worldwide and can be categorized as Performing Arts, Ritual Arts, and Martial Arts. These arts of Kerala are vibrant, performed immaculately to the accompaniment of vocal and instrumental music, captivating viewers with an ethereal experience.
Here, we are sharing details about Kerala’s arts and crafts. You will find all the information you need, including where to buy handicrafts and what you should consider taking home from the Kerala market.
Check out Kerala Tour Packages, Kochi Tour Packages, Alleppey Tour Packages
Art Forms in Kerala
The arts and crafts of Kerala, including the ancient Sanskrit theater Kutiyattam, the classical dance form Kathakali, the rustic Theyyam, and the unique martial art Kalarippayattu, leave viewers spellbound with their enduring fascination. Here is a list of some arts and crafts of Kerala:
Kathakali
Kerala is renowned worldwide for its performing art form – “Kathakali”. This is an enchanting mix of dance, drama, and music that connoisseurs of the art world have revered as a total art form of immense sophistication and power.
Mohiniyattam
It is another popular art form in Kerala. This traditional solo dance is performed exclusively by women and requires extensive training.
Theyyam
This art form is quite popular in rural areas of Kerala, particularly in Malabar. Skilled and accomplished dancers, along with drummers, perform the Theyyam.
Explore 13 Days Kerala Beach Tour
Thullal
Thullal is another vibrant and colorful traditional art form of Kerala. During Thullal performances, performers wear colorful costumes and green makeup.
During your stay, you can also see Kalaripayattu, Chakyar Koothu, Ottam Thullal, Loodiyattom, Chavittunadakam, Poorakkali, Thiruvathirakali, and Theyattu. The classical and ritual arts of Kerala have always been patronized by the rulers, from the erstwhile kings who ruled the state to the later democratic governments.
Crafts in Kerala
Kerala is a land where the `coconut´ grows in abundance. Hence, many of the crafts of Kerala are woven and carved around the coconut. Coconut Shell products, polished Coconut Ashtrays, Coir Carpets, Floor Mats, and wall hangings are some of the coconut products available in the markets. Here are some famous crafts that are available in Kerala:
Coconut Shell Handicrafts
Artists transform coconut shells into bowls, vases, lamp stands, miniature trinkets, and teapots. They use brass to create amazing handicrafts.
Coir and Cane Products
Coir products, made from the fibers of coconut husks, are famous handicrafts in Kerala. In this region, you can find various items, such as beds, bright mats, and ornamental floor furniture, all crafted using vivid coir fibers.
Browse through our Kerala tour packages from Delhi
Ivory Craftsmanship
The delicate art of ivory carving holds a special place in Kerala’s traditional crafts. The intricate carvings on each piece showcase Kerala’s impressive skill and artistry in ivory work, known for their detailed and delicate craftsmanship.
Lacquer Wire Art
Lacquer Wire Art is another famous handicraft in Kerala. Artists cover wooden objects with wire and decorate them, making them very beautiful. The vibrant lacquered pieces showcase the creative skills and artistry of Kerala artisans.
Wooden Handicrafts
Many artisans in Kerala create beautiful wooden handicrafts that reflect the state’s heritage. These include unique items such as lamps, toys, and paperweights.
Banana Fiber Products
Banana fiber products, including wall hangings, mats, bags, and pattu sarees, are currently trending in Kerala.
Other beautiful craft items, including Cast Bell Metal Work, Jewelry, Granite Idols, Pillars, Carvings in Wood, especially Rose Wood or Sandal Wood, Snake Boat models, Flower Vases, Reed Mats, Purses, Bags, and carved wooden furniture, indicate the excellent craftsmanship of the local artisans.
Must-Buy Arts and Crafts in Kerala
Beautiful oil lamps and the Aranmula metal mirror, a unique metal craft, are among the finest examples of Kerala’s rich arts and crafts that you can take home as souvenirs. In addition to these, here are some famous art and craft items from Kerala that you can buy in the market:
- Kathakali Masks
- Nettipattam
- Aranmula Kannadi
- Kasavu Mundu
- Kerala Mural Paintings
- Coir Products
- Nettur Petti
- Brass and Bell Metal Ware
Where to Buy Art and Crafts in Kerala?
Here are some famous places where you can buy art and handicrafts in Kerala:
- Kochi Spice Market, Kochi – Famous for its variety of spices.
- Connemara Market in Trivandrum – This market is for handicrafts and coir products.
- Munnar Market – Here you can buy tea, spices, and traditional crafts.
- Kovalam Beach Market – Buy local handicrafts and sculptures as souvenirs.
- Kerala Arts and Crafts Village, Kovalam – Here you will find a variety of unique traditional arts and crafts that you will not find anywhere else in the world.