P. Gopakumar
Born into a family that has upheld a 300-year-old tradition of craftsmanship, this artisan has spent more than four decades mastering and preserving the heritage of Aranmula’s renowned metal mirror craft. With a foundation in Economics, he chose to dedicate his life to continuing the ancestral legacy, learning the delicate techniques from a young age and perfecting them through years of practice.
His journey has been marked not only by dedication to the art but also by recognition and opportunities to showcase his work on prestigious platforms. In 2016, he was honored with the State Merit Award, a testament to his contribution to the craft and its cultural significance. Over the years, his creations have been displayed at national and international exhibitions, from New Delhi and Chennai to the USA, South Africa, and Dubai, earning admiration from diverse audiences.
As a leader within the artisan community, he has also served as the Secretary of the Viswabrahmana Aranmula Metal Mirror Nirman Society, working to support and guide fellow craftsmen. His life’s work stands as a bridge between ancient tradition and the modern world, ensuring that this unique and rare craft continues to inspire, endure, and thrive for generations to come.

Awards & Recognition
- State Merit Award (2016) for excellence in traditional craftsmanship.
Participation in Indian/Foreign Exhibitions
In India
National Handicrafts Museum, New Delhi – 5 times
Surajkund Craft Mela, Surajkund, Haryana – 4 times
APNA Utsav, Mumbai – 1 time
Crafts Council of India Exhibition, Chennai – 4 times
Toshali National Crafts Mela, Bhubaneswar – 1 time
GOI-UNDP Rural Tourism Exhibition at Dilli Haat, New Delhi – 5 times
39th Annual Meeting of ADB Board of Governors, 3–6 May 2006, Hyderabad
13th National Youth Festival, Chennai
India International Science Festival, 10–13 December 2021, Panaji, Goa
Bharat Tex 2025, Global Textile Expo, 12–15 February, India Expo Centre and Mart, Greater Noida
Foreign Exhibitions
“Africa Big Seven” Exhibition – 2005, Midrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
“India Calling” Exhibition – 2009, jointly conducted by Government of India, UNDP & National Geographic, Los Angeles and Hollywood, USA
“Dubai Festival” – 2012, Dubai Global Village
In Kerala
IRDP Exhibitions – 1983 to 1990
Ashtamudi National Handicrafts Cultural Exhibition, DTPC, Kollam, Paramparag – 1998
Kairali Exhibitions
Malabar Mela – 2018, 2019
Directorate of Handicrafts Exhibitions

With over four decades of dedication to the 300-year-old Aranmula metal mirror tradition, he has mastered every stage of the craft — from preparing the unique alloy to the final polishing that gives the mirror its flawless reflection. His work blends ancestral knowledge and personal expertise, making each piece not just an artifact, but a living heritage. This gallery offers a glimpse into his journey, showcasing the skill, patience, and devotion that define his craft.







