Temple authorities do not compromise on products or prefer imitations
Temple authorities who insist on originality of ornaments and figurines do not compromise on products or prefer imitations. (PHoto: DC)
Chennai:All is not well for figurines made of silver. The rising cost of raw materials and input costs have pushed silver ornaments away from the reach of the common man, opine industry sources dealing with ornaments and sculptures.
“Silver figurines are at stake due to the increasing raw material cost and aluminum is now eating into the domain of silver,” said 77-year-old artisan S. Mani.
Alloys with the embossment of precious metals over copper or aluminum plates are known for the intricate work in Thanjavur and are commonly referred to as Tanjore art plates. Be it in terms of ornaments or idols, the Tirupati temple keeps artisans occupied with a regular demand for them. “Last year, I supplied Rs10 lakh worth gold belt for Lord Srinivasa at Tirupati and, this year, I am on the verge of finishing a kalai thattu (art plate) worth Rs12 lakh for the Tirupati temple,” said V. Natarajan, 74-year-old Tanjore sculptor.
Temple authorities who insist on originality of ornaments and figurines do not compromise on products or prefer imitations. “Panchaloha alloy, that is a mixture of five metals, are related to the five forces of nature and are also easier to sculpt and always have a steady demand. Bronze, known for its rigidity, is most sought after since it is durable and lasts longer,” said T. Radhakrishnan, a 67-year-old sculptor from Erode.
( Source : dc correspondent )
Next Story
