Kal Silai (black stone) carving stands as a testament to the ingenuity and skill of craftsmen from the Vishwakarma community. Most of these craftsmen live in Shivarapatna, a small village in Karnataka’s Kolar district. The artisans craft idols, historical figures, and other stone artefacts. Occasionally, one can find glimpses of the carving style of Kerala. Kal Silai is made from two types of granite: karuppu kal (black) and vellali kal (white). The granite comes from Mahabalipuram. The artisans choose each piece of granite carefully to make sure it is the right quality for carving.

The craftsmen skillfully use both traditional and modern tools to carve the granite and bring traced designs to life. Each stroke of the chisel is guided by years of experience and a deep understanding of the art of stone carving.

A devoted familiarity with the stone leads to highly skilled renditions. The surface of the stone is meticulously smoothed and cleaned. Filling and polishing tools are used to achieve a lustrous shine. The final products showcase exquisite detailing with intricate motifs and geometric patterns.

Kal Silai craftsmen are believed to be the descendants of the artisans who built the temples of Belur, Halebidu, and Hampi. They contribute to the preservation of this heritage.

The stone carvings are highly valued for their aesthetic appeal. This art form continues to captivate art enthusiasts from around the world.

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