Methan Mani, a unique innovation, is situated in a clock tower forming a part of the building complex attached to the
Padmanabhaswamy Temple in
Thiruvananthapuram. The clock dates back to the late 18th century or mid 19th century. The figure above the dial is the face of a Muslim, with two rams on either side of his face. When the clock strikes the hour, the rams come and hit against the sides of his face. This intricate design was made by 'Kulathooraan’ who afterwards came to be known as ‘Soothram Aasaari’ (trick-work carpenter). There is also a story that the clock symbolizes Travancore's successful repulsion of the attack of
Tipu Sultan.
