What Made Karnataka's Mavinkurve Locks Popular And How They Became Obsolete

The metal Mavinkurve locks were widely used at one time in the Honnavar town of Karnataka, other parts of India, and abroad as well. These locks were popular because of a fascinating feature related to them. According to Local18 Kannada, these locks had a two-layered security and could only be opened with the help of two keys. It could not be broken easily and thus acted as one of the toughest securities against burglars.

The materials used to make these locks were made by hand. There was a time when these locks were produced on a massive level and transported in bundles across Mavinkurve Island. During that time, 10 workers used to make and sell dozens of them in just a day. Now, however, the Mavinkurve locks are less in use and have been replaced with smart and steel locks.

There is another reason for the lesser production of the Mavinkurve locks. The reason that is cited is no financial backing being provided to the artisans employed for the construction of these locks. Despite having strong and artistic looks, some people think that the Mavinkurve locks do not look attractive. Due to these reasons, these locks are less in use by people.

The only artisans making these locks in today’s time are the brothers named Arun (50) and Manjunath (45). The Mavinkurve locks are stored in their houses and are no longer in use. These locks are of significant importance in the old cottage industry but no one is interested to buy them or support the artisans. The shopkeepers of old shops in Honnavar and Mavinkurve still use these locks in their shops. The shopkeepers feel that they are the proud owners of these ancient Mavinkurve locks which have been used for 3 generations. They show how it has a double locking system and is better than any other locks.

Have a look at a picture of the Mavinkurve locks-

Mavinkurve is an island on the bank of the Sharavthi River at Honnavar. Konkan Railway runs through this island. Mavinkurve Island was a settlement of iron smiths.