A museum of love: Betty Karunakaran’s tribute to her late husband

Alappuzha: “This museum is Betty’s Taj Mahal,” is how the late Sri Lankan President Chandrika Kumaratunga described the Revi Karunakaran Museum, one of the largest private museums in the country, after her visit.

Located in the heart of Alappuzha town, this museum stands as a loving tribute from Betty Karunakaran to her late husband, renowned coir industrialist Revi Karunakaran. Betty, who passed away yesterday, had poured her heart into this remarkable collection, which has since become a major attraction, drawing visitors from around the world.

For Betty, the museum was an artistic bridge connecting her to her husband's cherished memories. She meticulously curated a treasure trove of antique handicrafts, gathered over three generations, offering a glimpse into a past rich in history and artistry. Revi Karunakaran’s grandfather, Aandiyara Krishnan, was India’s first domestic coir exporter. During his international travels, he collected fascinating artefacts, which he brought back home. Alongside his work in trade, he passed down a deep appreciation for art, a legacy that was carried forward by his son, KC Karunakaran, and his German wife, Margarete. Their son, Revi Karunakaran, and his wife Betty continued to nurture this passion for collecting antiques and art during their own travels. Over time, they built a priceless collection that spans three generations.

Revi Karunakaran, a pillar of Kerala’s coir industry, passed away in 2003. Betty, still reeling from the shock of his loss, found herself taking over a vast business empire. The art collection they had amassed together became a source of comfort and strength in her solitary life.

In memory of her husband, Betty decided to establish a museum. A building designed in Roman architectural style, infused with elements of Greek mythology, was constructed to house this incredible collection. The museum was inaugurated in 2006, alongside the family residence, Shanthi Bhavan, on what would have been Revi Karunakaran’s 75th birth anniversary. Betty’s only sister, Sumithra Venugopal, and her family stood by her through every challenge, offering support during difficult times.

A museum built on love and legacy
The museum is a wonder, featuring a vast array of rare and priceless artefacts. Among its highlights are sculptures made of ivory, one of the largest private collections of Swarovski crystal, and exquisite Lladro and Meissen porcelain. The museum’s legally registered ivory sculpture collection is particularly famous. Notable pieces on display include the 'Byuke supercar,' which was imported to India in 1948; a tea set plated with 24-carat gold; a centuries-old Chinese dressing table; Maison sculptures; a traditional statue from Papua New Guinea; a porcelain portrait of the Tsar family; and a Dashaavatharam (ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu) carved in ivory. Additionally, a 200 sq ft mural painting showcases India’s rich cultural heritage.

One of the standout pieces in the museum is The Prodigal Son, a work by renowned Israeli artist Sam Philip, inspired by the biblical tale. Other pieces by Sam Philip, who was a close friend of Betty, are also part of the museum’s collection. The limited edition Blue Dante Vase, made in Italy, is another gem—one of the many gifts Betty received from her husband shortly after their marriage.

Most of the museum’s exhibits were collected during Betty and Revi’s many travels abroad, each piece a reminder of their shared journey and the love they cherished. While Betty is no longer here to enjoy these memories, her tribute to Revi lives on in the museum, which continues to captivate visitors and serve as a testament to a love that transcends time.