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Ancient Indian Cooling: Floors That Beat the Heat
12 Apr
Summary
- Kaavi flooring, a 300-year-old Indian technique, naturally cools homes.
- Made from iron oxide and lime, it offers eco-friendly cooling.
- This durable art lasts a century and becomes shinier with age.
For centuries, Indians have employed traditional methods to combat summer heat, long before the advent of air conditioners. Among these is Kaavi flooring, an art form dating back approximately 300 years.
This unique flooring technique relies solely on natural ingredients such as iron oxide and lime, mixed with water. Artisans handcraft the blend, which is then polished with coconut oil. This process not only enhances its cooling properties but also imparts a mirror-like shine.
Kaavi flooring provides a remarkable cooling sensation, feeling ice-cold even during peak summer temperatures. Its durability is exceptional, with the surface becoming more polished and resistant to wear over time, lasting up to a century.
Despite its numerous benefits, including cost-effectiveness and a timeless aesthetic, this traditional cooling method is becoming a rarity. A dwindling number of artisans possess the specialized knowledge required to perpetuate this ancient art.
