Traditional Indian wooden cradle

Traditional Indian wooden cradle, designed in the 19th century. Hand-carved with a fine finish, this beautiful cradle hangs from two carved pillars. Cradles hold a special appeal in Indian culture and tradition. Elaborately carved wooden cradles are passed down through generations, and each new baby in the family has the privilege of being rocked in the ancestral palna/thottilu. The swings induce a palpable sense of pleasure and instantly put one in a state of relaxation. In India, people connect their lives to the deities and strive to offer the best of everything they have to the supreme lord. Many Indian festivals involve rocking idols in jhoolas/swings or placing idols in elaborately decorated cradles and worshipping them.