Stories

India has a long and storied history with pollution-free and environment-friendly toys. Cultural artefacts showcasing this include Harappa's terracotta models, discovered in the 20th century. Mass-produced plastic toys disrupted this indigenous streak, but the nostalgia and love for these magnificent specimens are still strong among the masses. They represent an indelible part of India and the world's heritage, and it is high time we rekindled this relationship.   The ingredients...

The mystical Aranmula metal mirror (Aranmula Kannadi) has baffled all who have encountered it since its discovery. Unlike usual mirrors, the reflection for Aranmula mirrors is on the top metal surface and the light does not infiltrate any glass medium, adding to its uniqueness. Its reflection is now considered a pre-requisite in any significant celebration and has also received Geographical Indication from the Central government in 2004-05. A 45-centimetre-tall Aranmula...

Onam is around the corner and one of the images that come to anyone’s mind is beautiful women, regardless of their age draping in those kasavu sarees – the off-white robe with those golden borders! This speaks volumes of the tradition and culture of the Keralities, which has travelled across geographical boundaries. There would be hardly any Malayalee who does not own this handloom popularly known as ‘Kerala Saree’. The...

Items tied to their places of origin known as the GI (Geographical Indication)-tagged products have certain distinguishing qualities that make them stand apart. The geographical identity of a product is forged through years of craftsmanship that connects the community with the cultural history of the place. When such products earn a global reputation, they not only add value to a connoisseur’s collection but also offer recognition to the artisan communities...