Kerala Folklore

I. Betpore Uru: The Whispers of Wood and Water

Nestled on India's southwestern coast, within Kerala's Kozhikode district, lies **Beypore**, a coastal town steeped in a profound maritime heritage.¹ Its strategic location at the mouth of the Chaliyar River, where it gracefully merges with the Arabian Sea, has been instrumental in shaping its identity as a significant trading and shipbuilding center for over a millennium.¹ This ancient port town has witnessed centuries of global exchange, its shores echoing with the stories of merchants, explorers, and the magnificent vessels that carried their aspirations across distant waters.

The Uru: More Than a Vessel, a Living Chronicle

Central to Beypore's enduring legacy is the **Uru**, a large, handcrafted wooden vessel that transcends its functional role to become a living chronicle of human ingenuity and cultural exchange.⁴ Often referred to as a "dhow" or, more colloquially, a "Fat Boat" in English, the Uru stands as arguably the largest handicraft in the world, a testament to intricate human skill on an impressive scale.⁶ The term "Fat Boat" itself, as clarified by local understanding, directly references the Uru's substantial breadth and depth, a design optimized for carrying significant cargo.⁶ This design characteristic subtly underscores its inherent robustness and stability, qualities essential for navigating the often-perilous long-distance sea voyages that defined its historical purpose as a trading vessel. The explicit connection to Arabic design influences further reinforces the profound historical trade and cultural exchange that shaped the Uru's very form and function.⁷

A Glimpse into its Enduring Mystery and Unique Appeal

What truly sets the Uru apart is its most distinctive feature: its construction without the aid of formal blueprints, sketches, or written plans.⁶ This absence of documented design imbues the Uru with a unique allure and a sense of profound tradition. It highlights a remarkable aspect of human craftsmanship: the Uru is not merely a historical artifact; it embodies a living defiance of global industrialization and standardization. This reliance on the master carpenter's memory and oral transmission of knowledge underscores the enduring value of intuitive human skill and tacit understanding over formalized, documented processes, positioning the Uru as an exceptional cultural asset that challenges contemporary notions of efficiency and production.

II. Echoes of Antiquity: The Uru's Deep Historical Roots

A. From Ancient Shores to Global Trade Hub

The tradition of shipbuilding in Beypore is remarkably ancient, stretching back an astonishing 2000 years, aligning precisely with the very beginnings of India's maritime trade with Mesopotamia.⁵ This deep historical lineage forms the bedrock of Beypore's identity. Early historical accounts suggest references to Beypore dating back to the era of Emperor Solomon, around 900 BC, whose sailors and traders are believed to have sought precious goods from Malabar.¹⁷ Subsequently, the Romans also engaged in trade with the region, further cementing Beypore's role as a vital node in the expansive Indian Ocean trade network.¹⁷ The town's strategic location made it a crucial hub, connecting with Arab, Chinese, and European merchants and serving as a nexus for the lucrative spice trade and other commodities, effectively making it a part of the ancient maritime silk route.¹

Beypore's unique geography as an estuarine port, situated precisely at the mouth of the Chaliyar River where it meets the Arabian Sea, offered natural shelter and access to deep waters, a crucial factor in its development as a shipbuilding and trade center.¹ This natural advantage, combined with the predictable monsoon winds that aided navigation ¹⁷, directly propelled Beypore's rise as a pre-eminent shipbuilding and trade hub for millennia, attracting international merchants and fostering its maritime economy. Furthermore, the proximity to the Nilambur forests, approximately 150 km upstream, provided an abundant and consistent supply of high-quality teak and other timbers.³ The Chaliyar River facilitated the efficient transportation of these logs directly to the Beypore shipyards, making timber acquisition both straightforward and cost-effective in earlier times.¹⁷ This confluence of a naturally sheltered, deep-water port and readily available, easily transportable, superior timber created an ideal environment for the flourishing of this unique craft.

B. Royal Patronage and Commercial Zenith

Under the rule of the **Zamorins of Calicut**, from the 12th to the 18th century, boat building in Beypore experienced a period of significant prosperity.¹⁰ The Zamorins derived a substantial portion of their revenues by taxing the spice trade through their ports, and the Uru was not only a commercial vessel but also played a strategic role in the Zamorin's navy.¹⁰ This highlights the Uru's importance beyond mere commerce, extending into regional power dynamics. Later, **Tipu Sultan**, the ruler of the Kingdom of Mysore, recognized Beypore's strategic significance and actively developed the port, further enhancing its role in trade and commerce.¹ His legacy can still be observed in the town's cultural and architectural landmarks. The flourishing of Beypore's shipbuilding and trade was thus not a spontaneous occurrence but a direct result of strategic political patronage. Rulers like the Zamorins and Tipu Sultan understood that a robust maritime industry translated directly into economic prosperity and enhanced regional power, illustrating a historical feedback loop between statecraft and economic infrastructure.

For centuries, the Uru was indispensable to the maritime trade of the Indian Ocean.¹ It served as the primary vessel for ferrying people and a vast array of goods, particularly spices, across the seas, playing a pivotal role for Arab merchants and other traders. The historical narrative reveals that Arab traders, compelled to stay in Kerala due to predictable monsoon winds, led to the emergence of "foreign cultural diasporas".¹⁷ There are explicit mentions of Arabs marrying local women, leading to new languages and cultural fusions.²⁷ The Uru itself is described as a "traditional Arabian trading vessel" ¹ with clear Arab design influences.⁷ This indicates that the Uru, though crafted in Kerala, was fundamentally shaped by its symbiotic relationship with Arab trade. This was not merely an economic transaction but a profound cultural intermingling. The Uru facilitated the movement of goods, people, and ideas, fostering a unique cultural hybridity in Beypore, evident in its demographics, linguistic influences, and even architectural styles, where "Mosques shaped like temples" are noted.²⁷ The Uru thus serves as a tangible symbol of centuries of cross-cultural exchange and adaptation.

III. The Craft of Intuition: Building the Beypore Uru

A. The Master's Vision: A Design Held in Mind

Uru-making is a rare and remarkable example of an undocumented practice.⁶ Traditionally, no formal build plans, sketches, technical data sheets, or blueprints are used for the hull's construction. This absence of written documentation is a defining characteristic of the craft, setting it apart in the modern world. From the initial concept to the final completion, the entire design and structural integrity of the Uru reside solely within the mind of the master carpenter, known as the **'Mesteri'** or **'Maistry'**.⁶ This individual assigns tasks and provides daily instructions to assistants, meticulously maintaining the secrecy that has historically surrounded the craft's unique technology.⁶

This intricate knowledge is passed down orally from one generation to the next.⁶ However, a critical concern is that only a handful of Mesteris with comprehensive knowledge of building an entire Uru exist today.⁶ There are growing fears that this invaluable knowledge could be lost if not systematically documented or if the lineage of master craftsmen is broken, making future revival efforts extremely difficult.⁶ This situation highlights a fundamental tension in preserving traditional crafts globally. While the oral transmission and lack of documentation might have protected the craft's unique intellectual property in the past, it now presents a significant vulnerability in an era of rapid change and declining interest among younger generations. This makes the systematic documentation of Uru-making a critical, time-sensitive endeavor for its long-term survival. While some modern clients request scaled sketches or digital blueprints, these are often derived from the master craftsman's initial wooden model, rather than being the primary design source.¹¹

B. The Hands That Shape History: The Khalasi Community

The **Khalasis** are a community of skilled native artisans, predominantly Mappila Muslims, who are central to the Uru-making tradition.¹ They are renowned for their exceptional expertise in heavy lifting, using traditional methods to move massive timber and launch the completed vessels.¹⁵ The term "Khalasi" itself is derived from an Arabic word meaning dockyard worker or sailor, and is also interpreted to mean "black and white," reflecting their mixed Arab and Malayali heritage.²²

Uru construction is a collaborative endeavor involving multiple specialized groups.⁶ These include the **Odayis**, who manage technical matters and serve as master shipbuilders, the **Mappila Khalasis**, who are the primary dockyard workers responsible for heavy lifting and launching, the **Burmakkar**, skilled metalworkers who forge the nails, anchors, and chains, and more recently, **agents**, who act as brokers between the Mesteris and clients.⁶ The demanding physical work of Uru construction is often accompanied by traditional work songs, known as **"Vinchipattukal," "Ambapattukal,"** and **"Elayya pattukal"**.²⁹ These rhythmic chants not only coordinate efforts during heavy tasks but also foster a profound sense of unity and shared heritage among the Khalasis.²⁹

The unique skill set of the Khalasis extends far beyond shipbuilding. Their expertise in heavy lifting and traditional engineering methods has been utilized in major infrastructure projects across India, including the construction of the Idukki Dam, the Feroke Bridge, the Vadakkumbadu Bridge, and the Mahanadi Bridge.¹⁰ They have even been called upon for railway rescue operations and were involved in the construction of the Makkah Royal Clock Tower, underscoring their global recognition.¹⁵ This reveals that the Khalasi community's specialized skills in heavy lifting, traditional engineering, and coordinated labor are not confined to shipbuilding. They represent a broader, invaluable contribution to India's national infrastructure development, showcasing a unique form of indigenous engineering prowess that has adapted to various demanding tasks. This expands the narrative beyond merely boats to the human capital that helped build a nation.

Table 2: Traditional Uru Construction Roles and Their Functions

This table provides a clear delineation of the complex division of labor involved in Uru construction, illustrating the highly specialized and communal nature of the craft. It emphasizes that Uru making is not a solitary endeavor but a sophisticated collaborative ecosystem of interdependent skills, highlighting the social fabric and organizational structure that underpins this unique heritage.

C. Materials and Methods: An Evolving Craft

Historically, the primary material for Urus was high-quality teak sourced from the Nilambur forests.³ However, due to deforestation, increased government protections on local forests, and rising costs, Uru shipyards now predominantly use imported Malaysian teak.⁶ Other indigenous woods like Karumarut, Waga, jackfruit, and rosewood are also used for specific parts, such as interiors.⁷

Traditionally, Uru hull planks were interconnected using precisely chiselled and shaped teak wood, with jute coir serving as the fastening material, avoiding the use of nails.⁷ This "no-nail" technique was a hallmark of their craftsmanship. This method was not merely a primitive technique but a sophisticated form of boat-building. It likely imparted a degree of flexibility and resilience to the hull in rough seas that rigid, nailed structures might lack, contributing to the Uru's renowned durability.¹ In modern construction, however, copper and zinc-coated iron nails of varying sizes are commonly used.¹⁸ Before driving in the nails, circular gaps are filled with cotton to ensure an airtight seal, as the wood swells over time.¹⁸ Traditional waterproofing involved smearing fish oil and a mixture of quicklime and 'Vettu neyyu' (ghee) on the hull for durability.¹⁸ The shift to nails, while offering speed and cost efficiency, represents a pragmatic compromise that might subtly alter the Uru's inherent structural characteristics and traditional integrity.

Despite the absence of written blueprints, Uru construction involves a deep, intuitive understanding of engineering principles.³³ Intriguingly, some accounts suggest that design guidance, including precise geometrical and mathematical calculations for construction, is derived from "certain Arabic verses".⁷ The master carpenter's ability to predetermine the vessel's waterline with astonishing precision before construction, which perfectly matches the actual water level upon launching, is a testament to this inherent scientific knowledge.⁷ The keel serves as the fundamental stabilizing spine of the Uru.¹⁸ This points to a highly developed, albeit esoteric, system of knowledge that seamlessly blends practical experience with what might be considered spiritual, philosophical, or even coded mathematical principles. It suggests that the "undocumented" nature of the craft does not imply a lack of underlying scientific rigor, but rather a different, non-Western mode of knowledge transmission and application, adding a layer of intellectual depth and mystery to the craft.

Uru construction primarily employs traditional Kerala carpentry tools.⁷ Heavy lifting and launching of the massive vessels are accomplished using age-old pulley-wheel mechanisms, ropes, winches, and beds of logs.⁷ The construction process can take anywhere from 10-12 months to 3-4 years for a single Uru, involving a workforce that can range from 5-10 craftsmen in early stages to 20-50 for the main construction.⁴

Table 3: Evolution of Uru Materials and Techniques

This table clearly contrasts the historical and contemporary practices in Uru construction. It visually illustrates the craft's adaptability in response to changing environmental, economic, and technological landscapes while also subtly highlighting the compromises made for efficiency and cost. It provides a structured overview of how external factors have influenced the material and methodological integrity of an ancient art.

IV. The Uru's Modern Odyssey: From Cargo to Luxury

A. A Period of Quietuude: Facing Modernity's Tide

The Uru shipbuilding industry experienced a significant downturn in the 1970s, leading to a near cessation of construction in the 1980s.⁴ This decline was primarily attributed to a sharp lack of demand. The traditional wooden Urus faced stiff competition from more affordable and faster-built modern metal dhows.⁶ Additionally, the many wooden and handcrafted components of Urus deteriorated at a faster rate than metal parts, requiring more frequent and costly repairs and servicing.⁶

A major contributing factor to the industry's struggles was its heavy reliance on teak wood from the Nilambur forests. Deforestation and increased government protections on local forests led to a dwindling local supply and escalating costs, forcing Uru shipyards to source timber from Malaysia, adding to the financial strain.⁶

B. A Resurgence of Splendor: The Gulf's Embrace

Despite decades of minimal production, the Beypore Uru industry saw a remarkable resurgence in popularity starting in the 2010s.⁶ The Persian Gulf countries emerged as the primary market, breathing new life into the ancient craft. While Urus were historically built for trade and shipping, their modern purpose has dramatically shifted.⁶ Vessels constructed in the 2010s and beyond are almost exclusively commissioned as bespoke luxury yachts and opulent floating palaces for the affluent.⁶

Qatar became a significant market in 2011 after its Royal Family began commissioning Urus, and since then, at least one Uru has been exported to Qatar annually.⁶ The 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar further boosted orders, with several Urus commissioned in connection with the event.⁶ A notable example includes a 700-year-old 'Bagala' model, which was specifically showcased during the World Cup as a symbol of shared maritime heritage.²¹

The resurgence is largely attributed to the increased wealth in Gulf countries, coupled with a growing desire to reconnect with their historical traditions and heritage.⁶ This cultural and economic impetus has driven the demand for handcrafted Urus outfitted with modern amenities for luxury cruising. This demonstrates a clear cause-and-effect dynamic: traditional crafts, when faced with economic obsolescence, either perish or adapt. The Uru's transformation from a utilitarian cargo vessel to an opulent leisure yacht is a direct consequence of shifting market demands, illustrating how economic forces can fundamentally reshape the purpose and cultural significance of a heritage craft. The Uru's modern trajectory thus reflects a broader global trend where traditional crafts, once serving essential commercial functions, are revalued as symbols of exclusivity, heritage, and status. While this market provides a crucial lifeline for endangered crafts, it also raises questions about the craft's original purpose, its accessibility, and the potential for commodification of cultural heritage. It is a form of preservation, but one mediated by the dynamics of the luxury market. Furthermore, the "FIFA World Cup effect" highlights how major international events can unexpectedly become powerful catalysts for the revival, promotion, and recontextualization of local heritage crafts, leveraging their historical significance to appeal to a vast international audience and reinforcing deep-seated cultural ties.

C. Crafting Opulence: Customization and Investment

Constructing a modern Uru represents a substantial financial commitment, with costs typically ranging from approximately ₹3.5 crore to ₹10 crores.⁸ After the wooden hull is completed in Beypore, the vessels are often sailed to destinations like Dubai for the installation of lavish interiors.¹⁰ These "floating palaces" are equipped with luxury bedrooms, modern kitchens, contemporary navigation systems, satellite communication, and powerful engines, seamlessly blending traditional craftsmanship with state-of-the-art amenities.⁸ While adapted for luxury, the Uru retains its traditional forms. Different types of Urus cater to various needs, including the flat-bottomed **Zambuk**, the **Boom** (known for its large cargo space), the **Bahala** (featuring elaborate carvings), and the sleek **Breek** (available in both Indian and Arabic designs).¹⁰

Table 4: Uru's Shift in Purpose: Past vs. Present

This table clearly delineates the profound evolution of the Uru's function and clientele. It visually represents the economic and cultural forces that have shaped its trajectory, providing a concise and impactful summary of its journey from a utilitarian workhorse of the seas to a symbol of affluence and heritage. This helps readers grasp the Uru's adaptability and the changing global landscape it navigates.

V. Navigating the Future: Challenges and Preservation Efforts

A. The Fragile Thread: Threats to a Unique Heritage

A critical threat to the Beypore Uru tradition is the alarmingly small number of remaining **Mesteris** (master carpenters) who possess the comprehensive knowledge to build an entire Uru.⁶ There are significant fears that this knowledge, passed down orally and historically shrouded in secrecy, could vanish entirely without proper documentation or succession.⁶ This situation highlights a pervasive challenge for many traditional crafts worldwide. Without formal mechanisms for knowledge transfer or attractive incentives, invaluable, highly specialized knowledge embodied in a few aging individuals is at severe risk of irreversible loss.

Attracting younger generations to this demanding craft is a significant challenge. Factors include a perceived lack of job security, the absence of formal certification for their skills, and social disincentives. A master craftsman poignantly noted that young men "might not even get a bride if they become boat builders," powerfully illustrating the profound social and economic barriers to continuing this unique heritage.²⁸ The long construction periods (2-4 years) and the demand for increased wages further complicate the issue of sustaining a viable workforce.³⁵

The sustainability of materials and traditional practices also presents a concern. The shift from locally sourced Nilambur teak to imported Malaysian timber, driven by environmental regulations and cost, raises questions about the authenticity and long-term sustainability of traditional materials.⁶ While pragmatic for survival, this adaptation alters a fundamental aspect of the Uru's historical construction. These pragmatic adaptations are crucial for the craft's economic survival. However, they inherently alter elements of its traditional character, raising a fundamental question for heritage preservation: at what point do necessary adaptations compromise the "authenticity" of a traditional craft, and what is the acceptable balance between purity of tradition and the imperative of continuity?

Furthermore, the industry's current reliance on a niche market of wealthy clients in the Gulf makes it susceptible to economic fluctuations in that region.³⁵ The small-scale business of building Urus for cargo, their traditional purpose, offers very little profit, making diversification essential but also risky.³⁵

B. Charting a New Course: Safeguarding the Legacy

There is an urgent need to systematically document the undocumented Uru-making practice.⁶ Academic studies and research initiatives are crucial to capture the technical aspects, science, and traditional wisdom before it is lost. Calls for greater government promotion of Urus and support for the associated communities are increasing, with community involvement recognized as a significant factor in preserving this heritage.²⁸

Some Uru yards have successfully diversified their business model by focusing on luxury and tourism vessels, showcasing adaptability as a key to survival. For instance, P.O. Hashim's family business has thrived by building Urus with ornate designs for premium clients and actively promoting them globally.⁸ This highlights that proactive, entrepreneurial approaches, beyond mere government support, can be vital for the survival and flourishing of traditional crafts in the modern era. Individual or family-led initiatives that strategically embrace new markets, adopt contemporary marketing strategies, and engage in educational outreach can play a decisive role in safeguarding and promoting cultural heritage, creating new models for sustainability.

Tourism also serves as an important avenue for awareness and income. Beypore is actively promoted as a Responsible Tourism destination, with Uru manufacturing highlighted as a key cultural attraction.¹ Visitors are encouraged to witness the meticulous craftsmanship firsthand and interact with the artisans, generating awareness and potential income.¹ Cultural events, such as the Beypore International Water Festival, position Kozhikode as a premier destination for adventure water sports and celebrate maritime traditions, including local wooden boat paddling competitions.¹ The showcasing of an Uru at the FIFA World Cup Cultural Village demonstrates the power of high-profile events in raising the craft's profile.²¹ Additionally, engaging with social media and international festivals helps promote Urus globally and secure new orders.¹⁴

Finally, the establishment of museums and academies is a critical long-term strategy. Initiatives like P.O. Hashim's private Uru museum and proposals for a "Living Museum and Adept Academy of Dhows" aim to revitalize the culture by archiving, educating, and providing practical training, ensuring the craft's future.²⁶

Table 5: Challenges and Preservation Strategies for Beypore Uru

This table provides a clear, actionable summary of the existential threats facing the Uru craft and the multi-faceted strategies being employed or proposed for its preservation. It helps to frame the discussion on heritage safeguarding, offering a structured approach to understanding both the complexities and the proactive efforts required to sustain such a unique and invaluable cultural practice.

VI. The Uru's Enduring Cultural Footprint

A. Beypore's Identity: Forged by the Sea and Its Ships

The Uru is not merely an industry; it is intrinsically woven into the very identity of Beypore, profoundly shaping its history, culture, and traditional livelihood practices.¹ The town's ethos is deeply rooted in its shipbuilding legacy. The unique skills of the **Khalasi** community, central to Uru construction, extend far beyond the Beypore shipyards. Their expertise in heavy lifting and traditional engineering has been instrumental in significant infrastructure projects across Kerala and beyond, including the construction of major dams (like Idukki Dam), bridges (Feroke Bridge, Vadakkumbadu Bridge, Mahanadi Bridge), and even assisting in railway accident recovery.¹⁰ Their involvement in the Makkah Royal Clock Tower project further underscores their global recognition.¹⁵ This reveals that the Khalasi community's specialized skills in heavy lifting, traditional engineering, and coordinated labor are not confined to shipbuilding. They represent a broader, invaluable contribution to India's national infrastructure development, showcasing a unique form of indigenous engineering prowess that has adapted to various demanding tasks.

B. A Confluence of Worlds: The Uru as a Cultural Bridge

The Uru has historically served as a powerful cultural conduit, facilitating centuries of profound exchange between Kerala and the Middle East.⁶ It transported not only goods but also ideas, customs, and people, leading to a rich cultural fusion. This deep connection continues today with the Uru's renewed popularity in the Gulf. The Uru transcends its functional role as a mere vessel; it acts as a tangible link, a "cultural bridge," between diverse civilizations. It has historically carried not just cargo or luxury passengers, but also the stories of shared history, mutual influence, and enduring connections across seas. Its current role as a luxury item for Gulf royalty further solidifies this cultural ambassadorship, representing a unique blend of tradition and modern aspiration on a global stage.

The Uru's significance is also reflected in local folklore, art, and even popular cinema. The Malayalam movie "Uru," for instance, celebrated the craft and its artisans, highlighting the timeless bond between Kerala's artisans and their iconic wooden boats.²¹ Miniature Uru models, crafted with the same attention to detail as their life-sized counterparts, have become sought-after collectible art pieces, symbolizing Kerala's heritage and serving as a homage to the shipbuilders' skill.²⁴

C. Experiencing the Legacy: Tourism and Celebrations

The Beypore International Water Festival, celebrated as India's largest water festival, positions Kozhikode as a premier destination for adventure water sports.¹ It features a diverse array of activities, from white water kayaking and sailing regattas to traditional wooden boat paddling competitions, alongside culinary delights and cultural galas, all celebrating Beypore's maritime traditions.¹

The surviving Uru building yards near Beypore port offer a unique and immersive experience for visitors.¹ Here, one can witness the meticulous craftsmanship firsthand, observe the traditional techniques, and even interact with the skilled artisans, gaining a deeper appreciation for this living art form.¹ Beyond the Uru yards, Beypore itself offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a compelling destination. Attractions include Beypore Beach, the Lighthouse, the Chaliyar River, and various local religious sites, all contributing to a rich travel experience.¹

VII. Conclusion: A Living Heritage on the Waves of Time

The Beypore Uru embodies a remarkable journey: from its ancient origins as a vital trading vessel, through its unique and undocumented handcrafted construction, the communal effort of the Khalasis, its near disappearance in the face of modernity, and its surprising resurgence as a symbol of luxury. This vessel is not merely a product of skill; it is a testament to the enduring human spirit.

The resilience, adaptability, and profound skill of Beypore's master craftsmen and the Khalasi community are truly exceptional. Their dedication to a centuries-old craft, despite the pressures of modern economics and changing societal values, speaks to a deep cultural pride and an unwavering commitment to their heritage. The challenges they face, from the dwindling number of master artisans to the economic realities of a niche market, are significant. However, the proactive efforts in documentation, diversification into luxury tourism, strategic digital promotion, and the establishment of educational institutions offer a beacon of hope for its continuity.

Ultimately, the Beypore Uru stands not just as a local craft, but as a global cultural treasure. Its unique undocumented design, its pivotal role in shaping historical trade routes and fostering cultural exchange, and its current transformation highlight its significance as a living heritage. For the whispers of wood and water to continue telling their story for generations to come, sustained recognition, thoughtful support, and dedicated preservation efforts are not just desirable, but essential.

References

This list includes key books, academic papers, and web resources for further research and understanding of the Beypore Uru and its cultural significance.

Books and Academic Papers

• Mankada, Shameer Ali. Historical Factors That Contributed the Ship (URU) Building in Beypore. RSIS International, 2018.
• Alen Joseph James. Temple of dhows living museum and adept academy in beypore kerala. Front Desk Architects, 2017.
• Chirayath, M.J. Uru making techniques of Beypore coast, Kerala. DSpace@SPAB, 2018.

Important Web Resources

• Kerala Tourism. Beypore – the land of boat makers in Kozhikode.
• Wikipedia. Uru (boat).
• DTPC Kozhikode. Uru Tradition | DTPC Kozhikode.
• Sahapedia. The Beypore Uru Prevails.
• The Hindu. The boat-makers of Beypore.