Handcrafted Wooden Pooram Elephant with Umbrella
CUL0173
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This handcrafted wooden Pooram elephant with Muthukuda is a Kerala heritage decor piece that captures the sacred grandeur of Kerala's temple elephant processions. Made from wood with traditional caparison and woollen thread detailing in brown, red, and golden tones, it faithfully represents the caparisoned Pooram elephant — one of Kerala's most iconic and spiritually significant cultural images.
The Muthukuda: Sacred Symbol of Royalty and Divinity
The Muthukuda — the vibrant ceremonial umbrella of Kerala's temple festivals — is far more than a decorative accessory. Historically a symbol of royalty and prestige, it carries deep spiritual weight in the context of the Pooram: the elephant bears the Thidambu (the sacred idol or emblem of the deity), and the Muthukuda above it represents the protective presence of the divine. The bright red umbrella with its hanging tassels is one of the most recognisable images of Kerala's festival culture.
The Kudamattom: The Battle of the Umbrellas
At the Thrissur Pooram, the Muthukuda takes centre stage in the Kudamattom — the legendary Umbrella Exchange ceremony. Two rival temple groups, the Paramekkavu and Thiruvambady, face each other atop their elephants and compete by rapidly displaying a succession of brilliantly coloured, newly designed umbrellas in perfect synchrony. This dazzling contest of craftsmanship and timing draws thousands of spectators and is considered one of the most spectacular moments in Indian festival culture.
Each full-scale Muthukuda is a labour-intensive creation — skilled artisans hand-stitch heavy silk or velvet onto a sturdy framework, producing umbrellas that must withstand movement and wind during the procession. This handcrafted replica honours that tradition in miniature.
The Complete Pooram Ensemble
The Pooram elephant is adorned with a full ceremonial ensemble: the Nettipattam (golden headgear), Venchamaram (white fly whisks), Aalavattom (circular peacock feather fans), and the Muthukuda as the crowning piece. This piece captures that complete image — the elephant, the caparison, and the umbrella — in a single handcrafted form.
Why This Piece Stands Apart
- Muthukuda with tassels — the bright red ceremonial umbrella with hanging tassels; the defining element of the Pooram procession
- Thidambu elephant form — represents the sacred elephant carrying the deity's emblem during the festival
- Caparison and woollen thread — traditional textile detailing in brown, red, and golden tones
- Entirely handcrafted — made by Kerala artisans; no two pieces are identical
- Meaningful gifting — ideal for Pooram season, housewarmings, corporate gifting, and Kerala culture enthusiasts
- Ships within 48 hours — delivered in 7–9 working days, carefully packed
Corporate Gifting
The Pooram Elephant with Muthukuda is a premium and culturally meaningful corporate gift, ideal for Onam hampers, client gifting, and institutional gifting for organisations with a Kerala connection.
For bulk orders, custom packaging, or branded gifting enquiries, contact us at hello@culturati.in or WhatsApp us at +91 90357 90430.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Muthukuda?
The Muthukuda is the ceremonial umbrella used in Kerala's temple festivals, particularly the Thrissur Pooram. It is a sacred symbol of royalty and divinity, held above the elephant that carries the Thidambu (the deity's sacred emblem). The bright red umbrella with hanging tassels is one of Kerala's most iconic festival images.
What is the Kudamattom ceremony?
The Kudamattom is the Umbrella Exchange ceremony at the Thrissur Pooram, in which two rival temple groups compete by rapidly displaying brilliantly coloured umbrellas in synchrony atop their elephants. It is considered one of the most spectacular moments in Indian festival culture.
What is a Thidambu elephant?
A Thidambu elephant is the temple elephant chosen to carry the Thidambu — the sacred idol or emblem of the deity — during the Pooram procession. It is the most honoured elephant in the festival and is adorned with the full ceremonial ensemble including Nettipattam, Venchamaram, Aalavattom, and the Muthukuda.
What occasions is this suitable for?
This piece is ideal for Pooram season gifting, housewarmings, weddings, corporate gifting, and as a collector's piece for anyone who appreciates Kerala's temple and festival heritage. It is also a popular choice for Onam hampers and institutional gifting for organisations with a Kerala connection.
What materials are used?
Wood for the elephant body, with traditional caparison fabric and woollen thread detailing in brown, red, and golden tones.
Product Details
- Material: Wood, caparison and woollen thread
- Colour: Brown, red and golden
- Origin: Kerala, India
- Care: Dust with a soft cloth; keep away from moisture
- Returns: Exchanges offered for damaged items
Material
Wood, Caparison & Woollen thread
Product dimensions
Care Instructions
Clean it with a soft cloth.
Color Disclaimer
Please be aware that the actual colors may slightly differ from what you see on screen.
Shipping Information
Your order will be delivered within 7-9 working days after being dispatched from our warehouse.
Return Policy
At Culturati, we prioritize quality and satisfaction. We discourage returns but offer exchanges for damaged items in rare cases. You may choose a replacement of the same product if available, or select an alternative of equal value.
Let customers speak for us
Awesome quality products, went the extra mile to wrap it neatly.
Great gift that reflects the Kerala culture
Had an online discussion and purchase from them
Had made a customized combo of kathakali and sadhya feast fridge magnet with naazhi and second combo of theyyam face and full kathakali figure fridge magnet
Very prompt service and nice deal too
Happy customer
Traditional Onam Decor Mini Gift Set - Elephant, Kathakali Magnet & Nettipattam Car Hanging
The cute Onam hamper beautifully captured the essence of Onam with traditional goodies and cultural touches that made it truly special. My North Indian friend loved experiencing a piece of Kerala’s traditions. The packaging was elegant and overall it made the feel extra special. Highly recommend for anyone looking to gift something meaningful and culturally rich!
The table is cool and gives a beautiful vibe to the home. Would be nice to have taller sizes as well to make a set
Had a happy shopping at culturati 😊
Could experience an impressive showcase of artistic and cultural heritage.
The quality of the saree I've purchased is top notch.
Looking forward to coming back for more ✨️
I purchased the product when it is shown 10% discount for first purchase but during billing it was missing. When contacted the staff they promptly responded by refunding the amount which I never expected. I have become your ambassador and recommending for my friends. Please keep it up for your growth.
The product is very very attractive and packing also so smooth, got delivered without any damage, overall total worth for that price. Thank you Culturati
Their quality of the products are very good , Customer service is great, fast delivery
It is an excellent example of Indian craftsmanship. Loved it
Nice purchase as a showpiece. Intricately carved.
Super
It's lovely.... beautiful wood work! Keep it up team
Very very good wood work and very fine finish