It is not always that individual collections get global recognition. When Kerala has given us some of the best writers, poets and artists in every field, the state also has its unique share of museums that stand out. One among them is the Revi Karuna Karan Museum in Alappuzha.
Alappuzha or Alleppey was one of the major trading centres of India. Mr. Revi Karuna Karan, a philanthropist who had contributed a major part of his life for the coir industries and the welfare of the workers in these industries, was also passionate about arts and culture.
Photo Courtesy: rkkmuseum.com
As a part of his work, he used to take world tours often, and was known for the unique pieces of arts he brought from various countries. His Swarovski and ivory collections are amongst the best collections in the world.
After his death in 2003, his wife Betty and daughter Lullu decided to build a memorial museum in his name, to display his rare collection from around the world. Let us see what makes this private collection one of its kind!
Photo Courtesy: Kerala Tourism
His crystal collection is one of the largest private collections in the world, with crystals by renowned crystal makers like Swarovski, Daum, Baccarat and Lalique. These pieces include handcut and machine-cut moulded crystal artefacts like vases, bowls, candle holders, bar ware, miniatures of birds and animals, etc.
The ivory collection owned by Revi is one of the largest ivory collections owned by a family in the whole world. From statues of Virgin Mary, Jesus Christ and Buddha, the collection has smaller intricate works like penknives, lamps, letter openers, hand mirrors, bangles, chains, jewellery boxes, paintings, etc.
Photo Courtesy: Kerala Tourism
Revi had a decent collection of paintings, of which the Tanjore paintings' collection is the most impressive. The other popular paintings include huge paintings that depict scenes from Hindu mythology and large murals painted using only vegetable dyes.
History buffs and art lovers would find this place a land of wonder, as each piece showcased in the museum takes you to its land, time in history and culture of the place.
Opening Hours: 9am-2pm on all days except Mondays and national holidays
Photo Courtesy: Kerala Tourism
How to reach Revi Karuna Karan Museum
The museum is located less than 3km away from Alappuzha railway terminus, from where you can hire a taxi or auto rickshaw. The nearest airport is Kochi International Airport which is around 75km away from the museum. Alappuzha is well connected to its nearby cities by road.
Take a trip to some of the unusual museums in Kerala!