Architecture
Kerala’s architecture is an ensemble of simplicity and elegance. Simple and all embracing, it is tailored to suite Kerala’s climate and culture.
The time-tested dexterity of Kerala’s master architectures is ostensible in the construction of umpteen temples, mosques and churches bestrewn across the state.
The temples structures have intricate details that are breathtaking, which never fails to fascinate an observer. Agraharams, the conglomeration of Tamil Brahmin houses, at Kalpathy in Palakkad show the fulgent face of aesthetic sense of a generation.
Bypore Khalasees, a microscopic group in Kozhikode, have devised their own method of construction. This endangered Muslim group had construction several bridges in stultifying pace. This team had done yeomen service in several rescue missions in Kerala.
Idols and curios, manufactured in several parts of the state, are a fusion of dexterity and technical know-how. Aranmula mirror, a unique mirror being manufactured at Aranmula in Pathanamthitta, has taken the fame of Kerala’s architecture overseas.
Temples, churches and mosques abound in Kerala, signifying a glorious history and representing the eventful political, cultural and religious life of the state. History is a pervasive presence here. Many Christian churches were built with the help of Hindu Kings. However, the post-independent development spree, bereft of little concern for culture and tradition, has left our traditional knowledge system bear the brunt. Even amid the onslaught of modernism, a few embers glow that can fan up the Kerala consciousness.
Nalukettu
The Nalukettu is the traditional style of architecture of Kerala, wherein a house has a quadrangle in the centre.
Originally the abode of the wealthy Brahmin and Nair families, this style of architecture has today become a status symbol among the well to do in Kerala. Nalukettu is evident in the traditional homes of the upper class homestead where customs and rituals were a part of life.
The mansion is created using wood and tiles, central open courtyard and wondrous architecture. The interiors of the house are tastefully decorated with a wealth of antiques made from teak, sandalwood, mahogany etc.
Dynastic Influence:- Originally the abode of the wealthy Brahmin and Nair families, this style of architecture has today become a status symbol among the well to do in Kerala. Nalukettu is evident in the traditional homes of the upper class homestead where customs and rituals were a part of life.
Priciples Of The Design:- The traditional 'Nalukettu', barring the foundation and floor is made of carved and slotted wood and has a close resemblance to East Asian gabled and thatched structures. In later years, tiles replaced the coconut fronds.
The enclosed courtyard or 'ankanam' is usually sunk and therefore called 'Kuzhi (pit) Ankanam'. The protruding roofs of the 'salas' formed shady verandas and protected the rooms from direct sunlight, keeping them cool even on the hottest of days. The inner verandah around the 'ankanam' is open.
The outer verandahs along the four sides of the 'Nalukettu' are enclosed differently. While both the western and eastern verandahs are left open, the northern and southern verandahs are enclosed or semi-enclosed.
Building Monuments:- The Glorious Examples Of Nalukettu The 'Tantrasamuchaya', 'Vasthuvidya', 'Maushyalaya Chandrika' and 'Silparatna' are the celebrated treatises in the field of architecture that Kerala has contributed to the world. The Nalukettu of Kerala is famous for building along with the rules of 'Tachu Sastra' (Science of Architecture). The Padmanabhapuram Palace, the Dutch Palace at Mattancherry and Krishnapuram Palace near Kayamkulam are some of the famous palaces of Kerala.The rock temples, woodcarvings, and metal cuttings are excellent pieces of works of Kerala.
Traditional Architecture
The architecture of Kerala is a unique amalgam of external influences that are both foreign and Indian, in origin.The Southeast Asia and the Pacific Rim stretching upto China had the greatest impact on the style of architecture of Kerala. The manifestation of external influences is evident in Kerala's architecture with its gabled roofs and all wood, coconut-frond thatched constructions. The 'Nalukettu' is flanked by out-houses and utility structures. The traditional houses of Keralities are built in accordance with the principles of 'Thatchushastra', the science of carpentry and 'Vaastushastra' the ancient Indian science of architecture.
Building Monuments.The Padmanabhaswamy Temple and the Napier museum in Thiruvananthapuram, the Bolgatty Palace in Kochi the Arakkal Palace at Kannur and the Kolathiri Palace at Chirakal are but only a few examples of Kerala's architecture.
