TCRF team recovers wooden idol from sea

Mangaluru: A wooden idol believed to be of Mayandal or Siri Daiva was recovered from the sea at Kanwathirtha Beach in Manjeshwara, Kerala, bordering Dakshina Kannada district.

The idol was first spotted by Kushalakshi V Kulal, a Tulu author from the area, who found it lying upside down in the sand. Kushalakshi said the idol appeared to belong to the Badakayi (North Tulu Nadu), as such wooden idols are not common in Tenkai (South). She later informed TCRF president Nischith G Ramakunja and his team.

Nischith said the team decided to retrieve the idol as the foundation plans to establish a museum to preserve and display culturally significant artefacts. According to him, the idol may have originated from a temple and could have been discarded during Jeernodhara (renovation).

He noted the idol features remarkable craftsmanship and intricate carvings, but its hands were broken and face damaged. While some locals speculated that the idol may have been part of a chariot, Nischith pointed to its strong base-like extension, suggesting it was likely installed vertically on the ground in a temple.

Though unable to determine its age, Nischith believes the idol is old and may have been immersed in the sea years ago during a renovation. Stressing the need to preserve Tulu heritage, Nischith said history is often easier to understand through artefacts than through reading alone.

TCRF founder Mahi Mulki also stressed the need to preserve culturally significant artefacts. He said Mayandal idols are mostly installed in Garodis, while Siri idols are placed in Alades (a sacred grove or an ancient traditional place of daiva worship).

The foundation has collected around 50 artefacts, including several decades-old items, as part of its efforts to safeguard Tulu heritage. Mulki said the team plans to repaint the idol for preservation, although reconstruction is not possible due to the extent of the damage. He urged the Tulu community to help preserve such artefacts and educate future generations about their cultural heritage.