Deepam has always had its pride of place in Indian culture, particularly as a cosmic intermediary between human and divine. An oil lamp lights up our hearts and hopes as it opens a channel between us and God. Deepam is Parabrahma and the path to divine consciousness. In Kerala, the oil lamp occupies a central part in life; be it home or temple or performing arts such as Kathakali, Kutiyattam, Mudiyattu, and Tolpavakoothu. Although the traditional lamp has been the subject of study for more than a century, its functional significance has not received the attention it demands.
Indu Chinta has addressed the gap by presenting an in-depth study of the time immemorial cultural roles lamps have traditionally played in various private and public spaces including temples and theatre. Drawing support from years of research, this book captures and preserves the invaluable heritage of God’s own country. While the author’s interviews with artisans, artists, priests, and writers highlight the importance of the work, the photographs and sketches make the reading an aesthete’s journey.