Kerala is famous for its metal artisans. Bell metal (Venkalam), White Metal, Iron, Brass, Copper art flourishes in Kerala. These forms of traditional of handicrafts dates back to a glorious past. Steeped in mythology, idols of deities like Shiva and Nataraja dominate the themes. An alloy of brass, tin and copper, glistening bell metals are also used to cast magnificent lamps in various shapes and sizes. Lamps are an integral part of the lives of the religious Keralites. The main one is ‘Nilavilakku’ There are also other kinds of lamps like the Changalavatta, the Arati Dipa and the Archana lamp. In Kannur, there are lot of artisans makes different kinds of metal lamps for homes especially designed for special lamps for temples  and other religious activities around Kunhimangalam and Payyanur.