Kalamezhuthu is a ritualistic art form of Kerala, primarily practiced in temples and sacred spaces. It dates back several centuries and is closely linked to religious ceremonies dedicated to deities like Kali and Ayyappa.
Kalamezhuthu is an intricate, temporary floor art created by using natural powders to depict deities during religious ceremonies.
The artist outlines the design on the floor using fingers or coconut husks. Natural powders are carefully poured to create vibrant, symmetrical depictions of deities. The finished artwork is often accompanied by traditional music and rituals. The artwork is erased at the end of the ceremony as part of the ritual.
The material used are natural powders such as turmeric (yellow), rice powder (white), charcoal (black), and leaves (green) which is applied using coconut husks.
This art form is characterised by freehand drawing of symmetrical patterns, layering of natural powders to create detailed images and the use of shading and contrast for realism.
