 |
| Kunjikkannan Gurukkal, Cheruvathoor, Kasargod |
|
Download Database of featured talents. (Excel file)) |
He is one of the few remaining artists capable of painting the inner parts of temples in the strictly traditional style using natural dyes for the process. And after a gap of nearly 50 years, during which he did not touch traditional dye, Kunjikkannan Gurukkal of Cheruvathoor, Kasargod has become active again at the age of 77 in draping the sanctum sanctorum, ceilings, ceremonial figures, wooden pillars etc of temples with the colours and patterns of centuries-old tradition.
This art was the traditional domain of Kidars of North Malabar, is now bereft of practitioners except Gurukkal. Reasons for the decline of the art form could be difficulty in getting raw materials like stones etc for making the dye, costliness of the process, entry of synthetic enamel paints and lack of professionals in the field.
Gurukkal, who learned the art from his father, has now revealed his talent in the renovation work at the Siva temple at Ponmeri, Vadakara. Like the dye-making for Kerala’s traditional relief work, the colours are obtained by grinding stones.
To keep the long tradition alive, Gurukkal has handed over the knowledge at his disposal to 6 artists. They are Asokan, who has completed his education at the painting training centre, Guruvayoor, Jagadeesh Eramala and Anil Ponnyam from Malayala Gramam, Mahi, students C.Sreejith, Vijest and Renjith.
Courtesy: Chalakkara Purushu, Kerala Kaumudi, February 24, 2004
Contributed by: Administrator
