Traditional

An intrinsic part of the traditional Kerala are it; handicrafts. Kerala's most important natural resources are the coconut palms. No part of this tree is wasted and a flourishing coir industry exists because of its plentiful presence, Coir products, woven from coconut husk fibre are a Kerala speciality. In Cochin on the Gundu island the entire process of mats and carpets being made, can be watched. Kerala is also famous for intricate rosewood and sandalwood carvings, ivory work (which carries on a centuries old artistic tradition), brass and 'bell metal' lamps (Aramula is the centre of bell metal mirror crafts). Besides coir and cane, bamboo and straw are also used to make a number of interesting and useful things. Also found are horn products, wooden toys anc lacquer ware. Amongst Indian khadi (hand spun and hand woven and handloom (hand woven) textiles, Kerala's fabrics are unique. The greatest skill goes into the traditional sari and lungi lengths which can be stitched into other garments. The northern city of Calicut, owes its origin to the English word Calico and local weavers still make exceptionally soft polished cotton, so tightly woven and delicately coloured that they can easily pass for silk. Other Religious Festivals


The family deity of the former rulers of the state,Sri Ananta Padmnabham swamy is enshrined in this temple,located in the center of the city.Bulit in 1733,this shrine with its seven storey entrance goppuram is meant only for the Hindus.The Hindus have to wear white dhoties to enter it.Non-Hindus are not allowed at all. The white dhoti can be hired from a nearby shop for a rupee.