[1]M.T. Vasudevan Nair’s classic movie in Malayalam Perumthachan had dwelt on the agony of Kerala’s legendary craftsman who was not allowed to touch the idols he lovingly carved.
Likewise, traditional artisans whose ancestors made the crowns and jewels retrieved from the Sree Padmanabha Swamy temple have been callously ignored while ‘experts’ debate their value.
It was an unknown blacksmith in the Fort area who made the locks of the secret cellars in the temple.
Such was his ingenuity that modern engineers were unable to open them and opted for gas cutters.
“But they did not bother to consult traditional artisans who could have helped,” said Mr T.U.Radhakrishnan, ex-MLA and leader of the Viswakarma Aikyavedi.
Much of the precious articles recovered from the cellars were crafted by artisans of the Viswakarma community who settled in the city during the 18th century when King Marthanda Varma renovated the temple.
“My grandfather Perumal Achari made the famous silver seal of the last king of Travancore, Sree Chithira Tirunal,” said Mr R.S. Manian, a goldsmith living in Valiasalai.
“It was a goldsmith of Pettah who made the crown of Sree Moolam Tirunal.” But the artisans who added to the glow of the great temple were never given a say in its running.
“At least now they should be included in panels that assess the value of these articles,” said Mr Radhakrishnan.
Links:
[1] http://archive.asianage.com/pad0jpgcropdisplayjpg-338