Kerala Folklore Museum - Cultural Hub of Art

Located in Thevara of Ernakulam, Kerala Folklore Theatre and Museum is built in Malabar, Cochin and Travancore style of architecture. A big Kalvilakku (stone lamp) welcomes the visitors at the entrance. Stepping inside the museum after Kalvilakku, one can notice elephant statues on both sides of the steps leading to the massive multi-storey traditional building. This museum is a unique venture to preserve the splendid folklore wealth of Kerala. Opened in 2009 as a non profit organization, the museum is truly a treasure trove that showcases the rich heritage that Kerala exudes through its numerous art and dance forms.

It was constructed under the guidance of 62 elite wood workers in 7 years of time. Its architecture is undoubtedly overwhelming while the construction materials of this elegant structure includes wood, roofing tiles, laterite stones etc. The corners of the staircase leading to the first floor are also decorated with wood carvings. Artefacts that are part of South Indian fine arts and folk culture are displayed on the first floor. The main attraction of the first floor exhibits are the fascinatingly intricate theyyam masks.

The topmost floor is a theatre hall with old school wooden chairs placed in front of a raised platform. Colourful ornate wooden pillars are found at the corners. The ceiling on this floor is covered with 253 mural paintings. The paintings depict the different art forms of Kerala and stories from various mythological stories. Artisans from all over Kerala were commissioned to work on these paintings. Its motto is to provide art education to the coming generations as well as providing opportunity to the tourists to experience the unseen Kerala under one roof.