As one steps into Bhima's second floor, the silver collection captivates the eye. This floor has something for everyone.
Traditional lamps in different designs, sizes and prices makes the chunk of Bhima's silver collection. It comprises Ashta Lakshmi lamps, lotus lamps, Kerala vilakku, Malabar vilakku, mayil vilakku, jyoti vilakku and nagaas (fancy vilakku), which Ajay Balakrishnan and Radhakrishnan who work at this section say, sells the best. “Christian lamps and candle stands are also popular,” says Ajay.
A majestic Mahalakshmi mandapam decked with chaamaram and kodi is an eye catcher. Priced at Rs. 40, 000, it can be custom made. Similarly, a princely elephant and a gem box bejewelled with peacocks have us reminiscing on artefacts one used to see in one's ancestral home.
The replica of common traditional utensils of Kerala like para, kindi, uruli and kudam with exquisite designs are great to display in showcases.
A section of Bhima's silver collection is dedicated to the royal collection. With dinner sets bordered with delicate gold plating, dining becomes a royal affair. Jugs, jewel boxes, fruit bowl and flower baskets with delicate carvings too form part of the collection.
Those looking for things to gift friends and family have a wide range of silver articles that are plated in gold to choose from. These include idols of Gods enclosed in glass cases and elegant candle stands. Newborns can be gifted the silver bowls or tumblers. Or better yet, pick an anklet or a bangle for the newborn from the silver jewellery section.
The enchanting jewellery collection includes rings, watches, necklaces, brooches, cuff links and pendants in a myriad of shapes, embellished with semi-precious stones for the fashionistas.
Jewellery:
“We also have birthstones, rudraksha and navaratnas in silver along with traditional kodi chains, kadas and bangles in plain silver with an oxidized and rhodium finish to cater to different tastes, ” says Ajay.
Signature style
A speciality in Bhima's silver collection is the Aranmula kannadi embedded in a silver conch. It is priced between Rs. 11,000 to Rs. 18,000.
“All our silver articles are of 92.5% purity,” says Suhas Rao, managing partner Bhima jewellery. “Our sterling silver collection, with a blend of tradition and modernity has wide clientele. With soaring prices, silver is now a smart investment option, like gold,” he adds.
