In Kerala, this lamp
is known as Thokku Villaku. A well-crafted traditional hanging brass lamp that is
widely regarded as a symbol of wealth and prosperity. This lamp is essentially
composed of a central oil basin with five wicks and a peacock perched on top of
the lamp, which also serves as a link between the lamp and the chain that aids
in hanging. Thokku Vilakkus are used to illuminate verandas and are hung from
the ceiling using a brass link chain. Lit in the evening to worship the
almighty and used as decorative pieces
during festivals, these lamps serve as conduits for the
almighty's blessings.
An Emblem of Divine Light and Auspiciousness
This exquisite brass hanging lamp is a testament to the rich artistic heritage of South India, a region where metal craftsmanship has been honed over centuries. Suspended from a sturdy, twisted brass chain, the lamp itself is crowned with a magnificent, stylized peacock, a creature deeply woven into the cultural and spiritual fabric of India. The peacock, often associated with deities like Lord Krishna and the goddess Saraswati, symbolizes grace, beauty, immortality, and prosperity. Its vibrant plumage and majestic bearing are believed to ward off evil and bring good fortune, making its depiction in this lamp a powerful emblem of auspiciousness.Craftsmanship Rooted in Tradition
Each detail of this lamp speaks of dedicated craftsmanship. The brass, a metal revered for its purity and luminosity, is meticulously worked to bring out the intricate form of the peacock. The lamp base features a broad, ornate dish designed to hold five wicks. The design of the dish, with its gently flaring edges, is characteristic of traditional Indian oil lamps, intended to cast a wide, comforting glow. The central pedestal is sculpted with concentric rings, adding to the lamp's visual appeal and structural integrity. This piece is not merely an object of utility but a work of art, reflecting the artisans' deep understanding of form, proportion, and symbolism.Illuminating Homes and Sacred Spaces
In many Indian households, the lighting of a lamp is a daily ritual, a way to invoke divine blessings and create a serene atmosphere. This five-wick hanging lamp, with its peacock motif, is particularly suited for enhancing the spiritual ambiance of a puja room, a living area, or even an entryway. The five wicks, when lit, offer a brighter, more encompassing light, reminiscent of the multifaceted radiance of divine consciousness. It is believed that the gentle flickering of the lamp's flame dispels darkness, both literal and metaphorical, ushering in clarity, peace, and spiritual enlightenment. Imagine the warm, inviting glow it will cast, creating an atmosphere of devotion and tranquility.A Legacy of Artistic Excellence
The tradition of metal casting in South India is ancient, with techniques passed down through generations of skilled artisans. This lamp embodies that enduring legacy. The choice of brass, a material that tarnishes beautifully over time to develop a rich patina, ensures that this lamp will be a cherished heirloom, growing more characterful with age. Its compact size makes it versatile, suitable for hanging in various spaces without overwhelming the décor. This lamp is more than just a decorative item; it is a piece of South Indian culture, a symbol of faith, and a beautiful expression of artistic tradition that will bring a touch of timeless elegance and divine grace to any home.
The Power of Light: Understanding the Role of Oil Lamps in
Hinduism
Hinduism is a boon to human society for it guides everyone to
follow their Dharma and rise above the material concept of life.
Hinduism is also known as “Sanatan Dharma”. These are Sanskrit
terms in which Sanatan means “eternal” and Dharma means “Intrinsic
nature or occupation”. Thus it deals with the intrinsic nature or
the real identity of the living entities; that which can never be
taken away from them. The principles of Hinduism are given in the
Vedic literature or scriptures that are considered “Apaurusheya”;
they have not been written by any ordinary person but have been
compiled by Vyasadev, the literary incarnation of the Supreme Lord
Krishna. The word “Veda” means complete knowledge, both material
and spiritual. The knowledge in Vedic literature is so vast and
precise that if one looks carefully, he will notice that nothing
is sentimental or imaginary but is based on facts and truth. There
is a clear description and information about the identity of all
living beings, the nature of the Absolute Truth, the reason for
the existence of this world, the information about the world
beyond this universe, and the relationship between us and God, the
Absolute Truth.
Why do we light a lamp?
There are many rituals recommended in the Vedas for engaging our
body and mind in the service of God. One of them is the lighting
of ghee or oil lamps before the deity. According to the Vedic
injunctions, all auspicious functions begin with lighting a
lamp. It has a great spiritual significance. It is believed that
the light of the lamp symbolizes “knowledge”, the wick
symbolizes the false ego of the living entity, and ghee
(clarified butter) or oil symbolizes all the negative tendencies
(Anarthas) accumulated in the heart such as greed, lust, anger,
and envy. When the lamp is lit by spiritual knowledge, all the
Anarthas are exhausted, and the false ego, which is the root
cause of conditional life, is also burnt. Therefore, the lamp is
lit before the Lord as a sacrifice of our false ego in His
service. Just as the light of the lamp dissipates all darkness,
similarly, the light of knowledge dissipates ignorance of the
Jivas and enables us to realize our real identity and purpose of
life.
Why only an oil or ghee lamp?
One may question why only an oil lamp is lit before the Lord and
why not an artificial light source. This may sound logical but
lighting a lamp has a further spiritual significance. The flame
of the light in a lamp always burns upwards indicating that by
cultivating spiritual knowledge, one achieves the highest
perfection of life and is always victorious. Also, a traditional
lamp is the purest form of offering.
In almost every house of a follower of Sanatan Dharma, an oil or
ghee lamp is lit before the altar of the Lord or before the Tulsi
plant. Some people light it at dawn, some at dusk, and some people
prefer to light it at dawn and dusk. Either ghee or sesame oil can
be used to burn the wick. Vaishnavas (devotees of Lord Vishnu or
Krishna) especially light a ghee lamp every day in the month of
Kartik to offer their love and devotion to the Lord.
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