Avana Palaka Kerala Traditional Koorma Peedika (കൂർമ്മ പീഡിക).
The Avani Palaka is a wooden flat seat traditionally used by Hindus, especially in Kerala, during worship and religious rituals. It is typically made from jackfruit tree wood.The term “Avani” itself has Sanskrit origins, meaning “earth”. While this is the literal meaning, in the context of “Avani Palaka,” it refers to the specific wooden seat used for religious purposes.
Traditional Use: It has been used for a long time in Hindu worship, during family rituals, temple ceremonies, and festivals. It is recommended to sit on this wooden seat (also called aasan or peedom) while conducting puja (worship).
Artisan’s Simplicity: The Structure of a Traditional AvaniPalaka Order Online from Kingnqueenz.com
Avani Palaka Perfect wooden seat used for religious purposes.
In 2012, carbon dating of woodwork from a traditional Kerala house (illam) connected to the folklore of Paakkanar (from the Parayi Petta Panthirukulam legend) indicated the wood was approximately 1400 years old (plus or minus 80 years). This suggests that wooden ritual items like the Avani Palaka have likely been part of Kerala’s traditions for a long time.
Kerala Natural Pooja Mat Screwpine Mal available online Thazhapaya and Metha praya
To know more about screwpine mat making procedure click here |Malayalam
Koorma Peedika Simple and Sacred: The Structure of Avana Palaka
The structural specialty of the AvaniPalaka lies in its intentional simplicity and functionality, specifically designed for its purpose in religious rituals. Here are the key structural specialities:
Low and Flat Design: Its most defining characteristic is its low profile and flat, typically rectangular or slightly rounded, surface. This design promotes a sense of groundedness and stability for the person or deity placed upon it. In the context of sitting, it encourages a posture conducive to meditation and focus.
Different Types of Avana Palaka available in Online kingnqueenz.com
There are 3 different patterns : Standard Type (available 3 sizes Small,Medium XL)
Solid Wood Construction: Traditionally crafted from a single piece or a few joined pieces of jackfruit wood (plavu), it emphasizes durability and natural connection. The solid wood provides a stable and firm base.
Absence of Ornamentation (Typically): While some variations might have slightly shaped edges, the core structure is generally unadorned. This simplicity avoids distraction and focuses attention on the ritual or the deity. The natural grain of the wood is often the only “decoration.”
Portable and Lightweight: Despite being made of solid wood, Avani Palakas are usually designed to be easily portable. This allows for flexibility in setting up ritual spaces, whether at home or in temples.
Specific Size Variations: While generally low and flat, Avani Palakas come in different sizes to accommodate either a single person sitting or the placement of idols of varying dimensions. This functional variation caters to different ritual needs.
Clean and Smooth Finish: The surface is typically finished to be smooth and clean. This not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also makes it easy to maintain purity, which is essential for religious practices.
