Aesthetic Reflections

The traditional handicrafts and hand made articles of Chettinad occupy a distinct position in South Indian history. Wood carvings, Silver decoration, palm-leaf baskets, Aathankudi Tiles, Handloom sarees, brass swan lamps are significant hand made articles.

Palm leaf Baskets

Chettinad Baskets are colourful, utilitarian and exquisite with intricate patterns made of palm leaves. These patterns are as fine as embroidery and are the speciality of the Chettiar community of the area. Palm leaf baskets are made in many places including Keelayapatti near Pillaiyarpatti, Kalaiyar kovil, Thiruppathur, Kallal, Ilyankudi, etc.

Wood Carvings

Artisans carve wood to bring out fine sculptures. They then cover them with gold and brass plates to enhance their beauty. These carvings used in temple cars (THERS) (A specially structured car used to take the statues during the festival, round the wide streets). Wood carving workshops are located at Karaikudi. Beautiful wood carving toys and house hold articles occupy special place in Nagarathar houses. The dolls made of wood carvings are placed on racks to enhance the ambience.

Athankudi Flower Tiles

An excellent hand made product made in the village of Athangudi, the Athangudi flower tiles are produced by a mixtue of sand, water, cement and colour pigments. It is a unique and exceptional product of its kind that keeps the floor cool forever. These tiles are commonly known as ‘Athangudi Flower Tiles’. They give colourful look and draw the attention of the people from far and wide.

Handloom Sarees

Karaikudi has a flourishing handloom saree weaving industry. Bright reds, yellows and blues are popular.

Stone Carvings

Stone carving workshops are located at Karaikudi. A sculpture school is located at Koviloor.

Gold jewellery

The Gold Thali (marriage necklace) of 80 sovereigns is a common sight in many Chettiar marriages. A diamond thali is a status symbol. Gold Jewelleryworkshops are located at Karaikudi.

Ariyakudi Brass Lamps

Deepam means "that which disperses darkness". Hindu philosophy and spirituality have always deified the sacred flame. The lamps are classified into different classes and named after the birds (like the "swan lamps"), or an animal, or deityto which it is dedicated. Such lamps are produced at Ariyakudi, 10 km away from Karaikudi.

Terracotta Dolls

Terracotta horses, dolls and pots are prepared at Manamadurai.

Horn Craft

The art of making beautiful birds and animals out of horn is practised by a few families in a hamlet at Kallal block.