Decorating homes with traditional Kerala products like the Nettipattam is not only an aesthetic choice but also one that aligns with the ancient Indian science of Vastu Shastra. The Nettipattam, a divine, handmade decorative piece traditionally used to adorn elephants during temple festivals, has a deep spiritual significance and can be a powerful element in maintaining positive energy flow within a home.
This blog explores the benefits of placing a Kerala Nettipattam in your home according to Vastu, its rich history, how it is made, and why it’s a perfect addition to your home decor, especially during festivals like Onam. We’ll also guide you on where to find these handmade treasures, such as at Lalitam Crafts, a go-to destination for authentic Kerala handicrafts.
The Benefits of Nettipattam for Home Vastu
1. Invoking Divine Energy
- Significance in Vastu: The Nettipattam is considered a divine symbol as it is traditionally used to decorate elephants during temple festivals in Kerala, symbolizing divine strength and power. According to Vastu, placing it in the home can invoke divine blessings and promote positive energy, especially when placed in the north or northeast direction, which is considered auspicious for prosperity and growth.
- Why it Works: The reflective, golden surface of the Nettipattam represents the sun, which in Vastu is the ultimate source of energy and power. It helps to elevate the vibration of your home, inviting peace, harmony, and success.
2. Attracting Prosperity and Wealth
- Significance in Vastu: Elephants are considered symbols of wealth, royalty, and power in Indian culture, especially in Kerala. Placing a Nettipattam in the living room or entrance of the home is believed to attract prosperity, good fortune, and abundance, particularly when placed facing east or southeast, the direction associated with wealth.
3. Enhancing Spiritual Energy
- Significance in Vastu: The spiritual symbolism of the Nettipattam aligns it closely with the principles of Vastu, which emphasize balance, peace, and well-being. It is often placed in prayer rooms or meditation areas to amplify spiritual energy, helping to create a calm and serene environment.
- Why it Works: Nettipattam is not only visually striking but also carries a spiritual resonance due to its association with temples and divine rituals. The golden color, a representation of light and divinity, uplifts the spiritual atmosphere of your home, making it a perfect addition to areas where spiritual practices are performed.
The Making Process of Nettipattam
Each Nettipattam is a labor of love, handmade by skilled artisans using traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations. The process includes:
- Crafting the Base: The base of the Nettipattam is made from natural fibers or metal, which is then covered with red or black fabric.
- Adding the Ornaments: The ornamentation includes a series of semi-circular brass or gold-colored discs, which are sewn onto the fabric by hand. Each disc represents the sun and its life-giving energy, an essential element in Vastu for prosperity.
History and Significance of Nettipattam
The Nettipattam has been an integral part of Kerala’s cultural and spiritual landscape for centuries. Historically, these ornate decorations were used to adorn elephants during temple festivals, symbolizing the presence of divine energy. They are most commonly seen during Pooram festivals, where elephants paraded in these lavish ornaments become the center of attraction. Over time, Nettipattams have found their way into homes, not just as decorative pieces but as symbols of prosperity, divine protection, and spiritual balance.
Usage of Nettipattam in Home Decor
While traditionally associated with temples and elephants, today, Nettipattams have become popular as decorative pieces for homes, especially during festive occasions like Onam. People often hang Nettipattams in their living rooms, entrance halls, or even prayer rooms to invite blessings and positive energy.
- During Onam: Onam is the perfect time to refresh your home decor with traditional Kerala products. The Nettipattam adds an authentic touch to your Onam decorations and keeps the spirit of Kerala alive in your home. Many Malayalees pay special attention to decorating their homes with such items to welcome the spirit of King Mahabali, symbolizing prosperity and happiness.
- Lalitam Crafts: For the best selection of traditional Kerala Nettipattams, Kathakali statues, and elephant figurines, explore Lalitam Crafts. These beautifully crafted pieces not only elevate your home decor but also resonate with Kerala’s rich cultural heritage.
Decorate Your Home with Kerala Handicrafts
While the Nettipattam is a star of Kerala handicrafts, there are many other traditional items that can enhance the beauty of your home and bring in positive Vastu energy. Consider decorating your space with:
- Kathakali Statues: Add a touch of Kerala’s vibrant culture to your decor with Kathakali statues, representing the colorful and dramatic dance form of Kerala.
- Elephant Figurines: These handcrafted figurines, symbols of royalty and power, make for the perfect decor pieces, especially when placed in the living room or entrance.
- Traditional Kerala Lamps: Lighting a brass Nilavilakku not only brightens up the space but also attracts positive energy, promoting peace and harmony in the home.
Conclusion: Bring the Benefits of Nettipattam to Your Home
The Kerala Nettipattam is more than just a decorative item; it is a symbol of divine protection, wealth, and spiritual energy. Incorporating it into your home decor brings with it the benefits of Vastu and enhances the positive vibrations of your space. Whether you’re decorating for Onam or simply want to add a touch of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage to your home, the Nettipattam is an ideal choice.
Explore the wide variety of traditional Nettipattams, Kathakali statues, and other Kerala handicrafts at Lalitam Crafts to give your home the perfect balance of beauty, tradition, and positive energy this Onam.
