Maveli and Thrikkakarayappan idols from Kolathuruthu

Kolathuruthu, a remote place in Ernakulam district and near Muvattupuzha is known for its mud idols of Thrikkakarayappan, Maveli, Muthi,etc, handmade by certain families for sale during Onam season in the markets, mainly Thrippunithura. 

During the Onam celebration in Kerala, the folks from Hindu religion install the mud idols of Thrikkakarayappan, representing Vamana, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu in their homes for worship. Along with the idols of Thrikkakkarayappan, miniature figurines of Mahabali aka Maveli, Muthiyamma, a granny, and traditional kitchen appliances like Chirava (coconut scrapper), Ammi and Arakkallu (two types of grinding stones) are also installing as part of the ritual celebration.

Kolathuruthu is a colony of traditional potters. Though, no one has been making pots or mud vessels for many years some of the families are actively following the tradition of making Thrikkakkarayappan (a pyramid shape mud idol painted in red.) and figurines of Maveli, Muthiyamma, and other kitchen appliances, during the season. The artisans make the idols and figurines in wet mud and dry them in the sunlight. The figurines of Maveli and Muthiyamma are then painted with bright colours to highlight the face, costumes, ornaments, etc.  The character Maveli is usually depicted in a standing pose with a palm leaf umbrella in one hand. In the miniatures, the umbrella is also made of mud.

One of the craftsmen from the village is Pazhampilly Thadathil Kunjhumon, aged 60 and is involved in this seasonal craft for about 20 years. His son Akhil, a refrigerator mechanic by profession will also help his father during the season. Akhil also makes figurines of Maveli in a sitting posture, cruising in a traditional canoe, etc. 

Some other artisans from the same locality are Konduvelil Rajappan and his son Akhil aka Achu, Mohanan, Ravi and Chandra. Achu is known for making the bigger size Mavelis, around 3ft plus height.

The Onam festival usually falls within the four weeks, from the mid of August to mid of September. But all these artisans start their work of making the idols and figurines from the month of May onwards to sell in Thrippunithura market during the nine days prior to Onam day. (from Atham asterisk to Uthradam asterisk). 

Location/access: On the way from Muvvattupuzha to Kolencherry , take diversion from Bethanyppadi Bus stop to reach (1km) Kolathuruthu . From Bethanyppadi bus stop, Muvattupuzha  is about 12km and Kolencherry is  5km.