In the vibrant heart of Tamil Nadu lies the village of Nachiyar Koil, renowned for a craft that has illuminated sacred spaces and homes for generations: lamp making. This traditional art form, deeply embedded in South Indian culture, transforms raw materials into exquisitely designed lamps serving both functional and ceremonial purposes. With its Geographical Indication (GI) tag, Nachiyar Koil lamp making is celebrated for its unique artistry and cultural significance.

Andal and Her Connection 

Andal, also known as Goddess Andal or Nachiyar, is one of the twelve Alvars and a prominent saint-poetess in Tamil devotional literature. Venerated in the Vaishnavite tradition, she is especially revered for her works Thiruppavai and Nachiarkkiniyar. The title "Nachiyar" translates to "the Queen" or "the Noble Lady," reflecting her divine status as an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi, consort of Lord Vishnu.

Thiruppavai is a collection of 30 hymns dedicated to Lord Vishnu, composed by Andal. In one of her verses, she describes the devotional act of lighting lamps as a form of worship:

நீங்காத செல்வம் நிறைந்தேலோர் எம்பாவாய் வெங்கடவற்கு வித்துகிட்டும் ஏங்கிக்கிட்டும் உகக்கிடந்தும் நீங்காப் பொருளா நிறைவிற்போர் தங்களது விளக்கினில் தங்கிச் சொரியுமாகச்

"We light bright, shining lamps for Him, who measured the entire universe with His steps, and we offer our prayers."

Although Andal is not directly associated with the Nachiyar Koil temple historically, the temple honors the same divine figures revered in her hymns.

The Origin of Nachiyar Koil Lamp-Making

The lamp-making tradition in Nachiyar Koil began with the Pathers (Kammalar), skilled artisans from Nagercoil (now Kerala). Facing challenges there, five families migrated to Kumbakonam and then to Nachiyar Koil in 1857. In Kumbakonam, Tamilnadu they learned to use brass sheets from local artisans and adapted this technique to their own expertise, using "vandal sand" from the Cauvery riverbed. Settling in Nachiyar Koil, they established their craft, and today, the lamps, known as Nachiyar Koil Lamps, are created by Pathers on Kammalar Street in Nachiyar Koil.

Significance of the Kammalas

The Kammalas, also known as Kannalans, were artisans with a unique role. The term ‘Kannalan’ refers to those who oversee or impart sight, especially during the consecration of temple images. The Kammalas were creators of visually appealing objects, their work adding aesthetic value to their creations. Their roles, duties, and privileges were distinct from other groups. They were involved in significant tasks such as constructing temple towers (gopuras) with intricate carvings, making temple cars and chariots, and crafting jewelry and vases from various metals.

Economic and Social Disparities

In the Chola Empire, craftsmen faced marked economic and social disparities. Rural craftsmen were less privileged compared to their urban counterparts, with varying income and property levels. While some weaving communities made donations to temples, others struggled to sustain their livelihoods. Temple honors and respect were often linked to donations and social status, with Master Craftsmen enjoying considerable privileges and respect.

Worker Safety and Health Risks in Lamp-Making

In the lamp-making industry, safety concerns are significant. Approximately 90% of workers do not use safety equipment such as protective clothing, gloves, shoes, goggles, ear muffs, masks, or fire extinguishers. About 58% are unfamiliar with these safety measures, while 62% find them uncomfortable. Furthermore, 78.4% of workers tend to ignore minor health issues like coughs, eye pain, headaches, and body pain, opting for self-medication instead of seeking professional help. Only 40% visit hospitals for major injuries or diseases, while burns or accidental injuries are often treated with over-the-counter medicines. Major health concerns include musculoskeletal discomfort from physical hazards, respiratory problems due to smoke and dust, and psychological stress from economic and family pressures.

{Images captured here are copyrighted by Veena Murali Decors}