Beauty in bronze, only in Bangalore

There are countless outlets in Bangalore selling ornate pieces carved in bronze. But be it big names like Cauvery Handicrafts, Natesan’s Antiqarts and Kairali or small fries like your neighbourhood artisan, bronze art almost always comes with a price, sometimes so steep that it is well-nigh impossible for the cash-strapped aficionado to afford it.

However, the city never ceases to throw up surprises and if you have the penchant to trawl its bylanes, you might just stumble upon a few artisans producing time-honoured creations. We took a chance and came back with this story of a talented craftsman, for whom quality does not always come with an intimidating price tag.

Meet MV Lakshmanan, an expert in bronze craft and metal castings. His house and studio are strewn with objects that speak of his passion and panache—Nataraja’s cosmic dance, the innocence of Krishna and the sensuality of Shanthala are all frozen in virtuoso flourish.

Says Lakshmanan, “Metal casting was always my passion and I decided not to follow my ancestral profession as a goldsmith.” This zeal brought him to Bangalore all the way from a small village in Kerala to learn the craft at the Central Handicraft Development Centre. His dedication and talent got due recognition when in 1980 he won the National Award.

Lakshmanan offers you options galore when it comes to objects in metal castings. From huge idols and masks to small lamps, he makes them all and the prices range from a few hundred to lakhs of rupees. Without doubt, a fair bargain when you compare it with the price and quality elsewhere.

International accolades have also poured in. With his participation in the “Festival of India” in England, his work got noticed and now these are on display in museums and art centres all over Britain and USA. At home too he has exhibited in various museums, including Salar Jung Museum, Hyderabad, and Prince Albert Museum, Mumbai.

Talent perhaps runs in Lakshman’s family as his sons, successful 3D animators, evince keen interest to carry this tradition further. Both boys have fashioned a few interesting pieces blending contemporary style with the traditional medium.

Nurture your arty side, take home some exquisite beauty in bronze!

You can contact him @ 9448834176/25658335