Arumbavur's Claim to Fame

The small town in Perambalur is famous for its wood carving tradition and its community of artisans who use customary chisels and tools that have been passed down from generation to generation

- P. THIRUSELVAM @ Perambalur

Rumbavur, a small town in Perambalur district, is well-known for its wood sculptures, a tradition that has been passed down through generations. These artisans create intricate wooden statues of deities, animals, human figures and other decorative items. The craft has gained significant attention and recognition over the years, especially after Arumbavur wood carvings received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in May 2020. This certification has increased their visibility, boosted demand, and opened up new markets, both domestically and internationally.

The wood sculpting tradition in Arumbavur is as old as the village, with artisans working in this craft. Many families in Arumbavur have been involved in wood sculpting for generations, and today, over 250 families continue to carry on the craft. These carvings have become highly sought after both for religious purposes such as carvings of deities for temples and chariots, and for decor. There is a huge demand for these beautiful creations not only in Tamil Nadu, but also in international markets like Malaysia, Singapore, Canada, US, and UK.