The Aranmula Kannadi is metal-alloy mirror reflecting Kerala’s cultural and metallurgical legacy. Traditionally gifted during Vishu, the Kerala New Year, it symbolises prosperity and luck. Its uniqueness lies in its frontal surface reflection. It eliminates the distortions found in typical mirrors that refract light. According to local legends, the mirror reveals a person’s true nature.

Traditionally, Aranmula Kannadi is made by skilled artisans from few Vishwakarma families in the idyllic town of Aranmula in Kerala. As per local legend, a royal leader invited eight skilled families who specialised in temple arts and crafts from Tirunelveli district to Aranmula. They were to work on mirrors for the Parthasarathy temple. These artisans supposedly discovered the technique while crafting a crown for their deity. Impressed by the mirror they made, the temple chief incorporated it among the sacred items for temple worship.

Over the years, the mirror became an integral component of the ashtamangalyam, one of the eight auspicious wedding items. Till this day, local families preserve a confidential blend of copper-tin alloy using the ancient technique. This technique has been handed down through generations for over 500 years. Made from a unique alloy shaped into a concave mirror, each piece is hand-polished for several days with over 10,000 strokes. The mould is made from clay while channels are made from beeswax for casting. Copper and tin combine to form the mirror's metal, which is softened and smoothened with coal. Coconut coir is also used in melting the metal. The mirror is polished using emery paper, velvet cloth, and soft cotton for a flawless shine. Chisels and hack saw blades shape the mirror and its brass frame, while grinding machines add a polished look.

Polishing is a big part of the finished product and artisans spend a few days to polish each mirror. Each artisan can make only 10 mirrors a month. Unlike domestically used mirrors, Aranmula Kannadi provides a distortion-free image.

The tradition was certified with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2004. Kerala Tourism also recognises Aranmula as a heritage village.

The British Museum in London showcases a 45-centimetre Aranmula mirror. Several notable figures, such as former Indian President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, cricketers Sachin Tendulkar, Kapil Dev, and music maestro Ghulam Ali, own these mirrors.

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