Secret Behind most Precious Metal Mirror in the World | Aranmula Kannadi, a Family Legacy| Culturati

Aranmula Kannadi is a traditional mirror crafted in the temple town of Aranmula located in the Patanamthitta district of Kerala. Unlike conventional mirrors made of mercury coated glass, this unique mirror is made from a special combination of metals. Its reflective surface is created through the meticulous process of rubbing and polishing one side of the metal. This remarkable mirror produced using a secret alloy was the first product from Kerala to receive a geographical indication or the GI tag. The mirror is made from an alloy of copper and tin mixed in a specific ratio. This mixture is combined with sand free pancha soil, pasture straw and old jute sacks and then melted in a milled charcoal furnace to form a metal plate. The metal plate is mounted on wooden frames and smoothed by rubbing oil on the sack surface. Final polishing is done with a smooth cloth and the mirror is then mounted on various types of brass frames. A key feature of the Aranmula mirror is that it reflects from the front surface unlike ordinary mirrors which reflect from the back surface of mercury coated glass. The origins of the Aranmula Kannadi are closely linked to the Aranmula Parthasarathi temple. This metal mirror is an extraordinary example of craftsmanship that is believed to be nearly 4,000 years old. Aranmula is thought to be the only place in the world where metal mirrors are still manufactured today. Owning an Aranmula mirror is considered auspicious. According to legend, Goddess Parvati was the first to gaze into the Aranmula mirror. The mirror is also one of the eight objects of worship in the Ashtamangalyam, a traditional Kerala ceremonial set. It is believed that the abundance reflected in the Aranmula mirror symbolizes long-term prosperity. Supporting the artisans who create the Aranmula Kannadi not only preserves this timeless craft but also sustains a cultural legacy that embodies prosperity and tradition.