Karkulas in Kathmandu

Pictured left is an object known in Nepal as a Karkula (Hindi: Urli). It is made of a special metal known as Tama. Though it originated in the South Indian state of Kerala as cookware, it has become a common decoration throughout the Hindu world. This one in particular graced the doorway to our guesthouse’s reception.

While the Karkula’s significance seems to vary from region to region, Nepali friends told us that people in Kathmandu drink water out of it for good luck. The flowers, it was explained, are merely for decoration.

Have you seen a Karkula outside of South Asia? If so, comment below to let us know where!