Brass Vadakkan Vilakku (Kerala Lamp) – Large

No Kerala home is complete without a vilakku. This traditional brass lamp is lit every evening, and it is also the lamp used to formally open weddings, events and new businesses.

You can order the Brass Vadakkan Vilakku (Kerala Lamp) online from Poduvals, or see it in person at our Bengaluru store.

Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, has been the metal of choice for pooja idols and lamps in Indian homes for generations. It holds fine detail, has a reassuring weight and takes on a warm, deep tone as it ages.

Product details

• Material: Brass

Where to keep it and how to use it

Light it at dusk with gingelly oil or ghee and cotton wicks, placed facing east. It is also lit for griha pravesh, Vishu and Onam, and for inaugurations.

Care

Wipe it with a soft dry cloth after use. To bring back the shine, rub with lemon and salt or tamarind paste, rinse and dry fully. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners on painted or stone-set areas.

Frequently asked questions

What oil is used in a nilavilakku?
Gingelly (sesame) oil is most common, and ghee is also used. Use cotton wicks.

How many wicks should be lit in a Kerala lamp?
Two wicks facing east and west are common for daily lighting, and five wicks for special occasions.

Does brass turn black over time?
Brass naturally darkens with exposure to air and oil. A rub with lemon and salt or tamarind paste brings the shine back, and many people prefer the antique look.