The twin town of Olavakkode (part of municipality) is the site of
Palakkad Railway Division of Southern Railway Zone and an important rail
junction providing access for all trains coming from northern,
southern, western & eastern regions of the country to the state of
Kerala.
PASTORAL & AGRICULTURE
Palakkad District Is The 'Milk Bowl & RiceBowl Of Kerala'. This district rears more sheeps, goats, cows, bulls, buffaloes, horses and donkeys than any other place in Kerala. About 65% of land is used
for cultivation of rice, tobacco, flowering plants, tea, coffee, cardamom, pepper, rubber, groundnut,
spices, plantain, sugarcane,cotton, silk etc.
A leading centre for learning arts,music & culture is also home for
several types of great old heritage buildings and monuments generating
thousands of tourists worldwide. Kalpathy is the world’s first heritage
village recognized by UNESCO, Paris, France. Palakkad Fort, Jain Temple, Vatika Gardens, Maidan are some of the other best
tourist attractions in the city.
HISTORY
People from all over the world through land and sea had marked their
presence in Palakkad and its neighbouring places since humans started to
evolve from various parts of Tanzania, Kenya & Congo in Africa . And migrating to various parts of
Asia, Europe, Americas, Australia etc. (Recently an excavation of Hominids in Anatolian Plateau, Asiatic Turkey proved that Africa may not be the only place where humans and apes originated. After all it is from Asia where every languages and groups, cultures, civilizations originated. So why not first humans?)
First people of India were Negritoes from Niger river banks in Africa .They settled in Andaman, Thailand & Philippines (65,000 years ago) Second migration was from East Africa.(45,000 years ago) They settled in Pakisthan, India, Srilanka, Bangaladesh, Malaysia, Indonesia & Australia. If you observe tribals of Kerala, their features very much resemble aborginals and Vedda hunters of Srilanka. In Ice Age, Tamilnadu was connected with Lanka by land. Lakshadweep & Maldives were one single large island. Andaman Islands, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Papua & Australia were connected with thick sheets of ice. (35,000 years ago) Third migration was by Proto Elamites from Zagros Valley, Iran. They mixed with South Asian Hunter Gatherers & founded Indus Valley Civilisation. (4500 B.C. - 1650 B.C) Later moved East & South of India. Fourth migration was from Western Eurasian Steppes bordering Ukraine, Russia & Kazhaksthan. They were Sintastha people (Mix of Poltavka & Abashevo) migrated to Afghanisthan and Pakisthan Punjab and founded Indo Aryan Vedic culture. Later migrated to Yamuna,Gangetic & Narmada Plains founded Mahajanapadhas and finally reached Southern Peninsula. (1600 B.C to 700 B.C. Then 700 B.C - 100 B.C. Finally 100 BC to Present)
Zagrosian Iranians who mixed with South Asian Hunter Gatherers(who were present all over south asia as hunter- gatherers) to form Indus Valley Civilization were those who split from Iranian pastoralists and hunters 8,000 years before they learned farming from Fertile Crescent, Iraq. So the language spoke by IVC people would have been proto Elamite mixed with some language spoken by South Asian hunter gatherers. Indo Aryans came after the decline of Indus Valley Civilization. They came from Southern Russia bordering Kazhaksthan. Before entering Afghanistan and Pakisthan. They learned agriculture from people of Bactria Margiana Archaeological Complex. That's why agricultural methods and crops used by Indo Aryans in Vedic period was identical to BMAC and not related to IVC. (Aryans cultivated barley, pulses and lentils in the banks of Saptha Sindhu, West Punjab. It was only after they mixed with IVC people they began to farm rice on Yamuna &Gangetic plains.)
Sanskrit, Avestan & Mittani are closely related languages than any other Indo European language. All these three languages are 3700 years old. Only relation we have with these European languages is because there is a common ancestor for all Indo European languages originated in West Eurasian Steppes that was not Sanskrit. It is yet to be foundout.
85% Sanskrit originated in Afghanisthan. Later spread to Saptha Sindhu region, Ganga, Yamuna & Narmada. Finally came down to Southern Peninsula & Srilanka.
Tamil originated in Tamilnadu from Proto Dravidian. It is 2800 year old language. IVC people spoke a language related to Proto Elamite. While South Asian Hunters spoke a Srilankan Vedda related or Australian Aboriginal language. Both languages are not spoken today in South Asia.
Ok coming to genetics 63% Indians are mix of people from South Russian Steppes, Zagros,Iran& South Asia. North Indians have more Steppe ancestry because of various invasions and settlements from Turkmenstan, Persia etc. But their basic DNA is same as South Indian Upper & Middle castes. North Easterners and Ladakhi people have Sino Tibetan and Sino Burmese ancestors. But their culture and traditions are like any indigenous tribal culture found around our country. No matter where we come from we are Indians first. Jai Hind. Yours Gouri Sankar.K 👍🙏🇮🇳
www.palakkadwalks.blogspot.com
Not much is known about the
pre-history and very ancient history of Palakkad where the city stands
now. Though there are several megalithic relics found in Kollengode and Pallasena areas in Chittur taluk. Not even one has been found in the
city till date.The oldest record about Palakkad is found in the
inscriptions of Chera Kings of Kodungaloor describing Palakkad as
”Nedumpurayoor as an important part of Tamizhakam”. (300 B.C) In Tamil
Classics ‘Puranaanooru’(100 B.C.) and ’ Chilappathikaram’(120AD) this word
is modified as ‘Paarainad’ meaning ‘Land Of Hills/Rocks’. Romans also has
recorded about the travels through Palghat Gap in 122 B.C on their way
from Pandya Kingdom to Chera port of Ponnani and Muziris.
First mentioning of Pandya king was on the ancient holy scriptures such as Matsya Purana, Shatapada Brahmana & Mahabharata. Both Virata kingdom of Rajasthan & Pandya kingdom of Madurai, Tamilnadu has Matsya/Meen/Kayal/Fish as flag symbol. Both are related by blood. First migration of Poorva Shikha Brahmins to Tamilnadu & Kerala was during last phase of Sangam Age. (200 B.C) Chozhiyars, Chithambara Deekshithars & Nampoothiris came deep south to escape from fanatic Buddhist monks and brainwashed kings of Maurya Empire.
Cholas were from Ikshvaku tribe of Ayodhya, Uttarpradesh. And Cheras descended from Bhill tribe of Rajasthan. Bhill become Villavar.
Prayaga pillar inscription of great Gupta Emperor Of Magadha, Samudragupta (330-380AD) mentions that his army led an expedition to Palakkad in the Southern region, which is identified as Palakkad.
According to
William Logan, Pallavas had invaded Palakkad in 7th century A.D. and
made their second capital after Kancheepuram. Pallavas in some of their inscriptions mentioned that they are Bharadwaja gothra. Whether Pallavas were brahmin or not is a matter of debate even now. But one thing is true many archaeologists and historians agree that they are not Tamil speakers at beginning. They worked under Satavahanas. (Satavahanas were from Asmaka region which is on Maharashtra and Telengana border. They spoke Sanskrit. Asmaka is the only Mahajanapadha situated below Vindhyas.) Pallavas spoke Sanskrit and Maharashtri Prakrit. All of their early inscriptions in Godavari and Krishna river banks in Andhra Pradesh, Central Kerala and North Tamilnadu were in these languages. Later they adopted Tamil. Fought Kalabhras, Chalukyas and Cholas. Brought Apara Shikha Brahmins,(Pin Kudumi Brahmins) built agamic temples, many important positions and huge tracts of land were given to them. Marital alliances and trade links with South East Asia kingdoms were established. Grantha script for Tamil were introduced. They brought 'Apara Shikha Brahmins' such as Vadama, Brahacharanam & Ashtasahashram. Vadama Brahmins were invited from Maharashtra, Telangana, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh & Madhya Pradesh. Brahacharanam were from Andhra Pradesh. Ashtasahasram originated from 8000 Brahmin families settled near Thindivanam near Kanchipuram who came from Andhra Pradesh. (Brahmin Tamil, Jaffna Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam emerged from Middle Tamil around 7th - 10th centuries A.D. They are the most Aryanized/Sanskrit influenced among Dravidian/Tamil based languages.) They also brought Vishwakarmars, Nagarathaars, Devadasis/ Temple Dancers & Musicians In King's Court from Andhra Pradesh, Telangana & Maharashtra. During Medieval Pandya period Vedantha Desikan said that knowledge of Vedas and Upanishads is also necessary and not just full devotion as prescribed by Ramanuja. Thus Vadakalai Iyengar faction formed.) Places like 'Pallavur' and 'Pallasena' in Chittur taluk have Pallava origin names. ValluvaKonaathiris are believed to be descended from Pallavas. (Mixed Caste Of Apara Shikha Brahmins & Chandra Vamsha Kshatriyas + Saamantha Nairs = Valluva Konaathiris. They used to have Sambantham with Namboothiri Brahmins too.) After defeating Pallavas, Medieval Cholas (Medieval Cholas are a mix of Pallavas, Eastern Chalukyas with large amount of Kaikola Sengunthar & Agamudayar blood.) showed up for a short period until they got defeated by Perumal army of Chera Kingdom in 841 A.D at Chittur. Most of the beauiful urban village
settlements you are seeing today eg: Old Kalpathy, Sekhari puram, Kumarapuram, Govindarajapuram were made during the
reign of Sekhari Varma(15th century A.D) for Tamil brahmins from Tamil Nadu.
Jainmedu for Mysore Jains and Moothanthara for Moothan community of
Tamil Nadu were also by those great visionaries. They were the first
town planners who knew that one day our city would rise to glory. But
the problem is that all those settlements were scattered till date and
only those scattered ones are the only prove that this place was a
town.And all the other places were not at all populated. There were
several fishing villages on the banks of Kalpathy & Kannadi rivers
at that time other than these settlements.Now there are only a few no:
of fishermen, pastoral and tribal communities living in those areas.
Trading was common through Kannadi river, boats can sail with goods upto
Ponnani harbour. But Kalpathy river cannot be used in this way, because
it didn't have much depth compared to Kannadi. But for river crossing
boats have been used in Kalpathy.
It was another king in 18th century who solved this problem. His
name was Fateh Ali Khan alias Tippu Sultan. Not only he built the
magnificient fort of Palakkad (actually built by Hyder Ali)and fought
the British. But also made several roads such as Dindigul- Pollachi Road, Kollengode-
Pollachi Road, Palakkad - Coimbatore Road, Palakkad- Ponnani Road,
Mannarkad Road, Palakkad- Olavakkode Road, Palakkad - Kannadi Road etc. He did in South
India what Sher Shah Suri did from Peshawar to Howrah by creating Grand
Trunk Road. Even now also those roads are great.At that time population
increased as new migrants came and occupied almost all parts of the
city.
In 1792, Treaty Of Sri Rangapattinam was signed by Tippu Sultan. All his
pocessions in Malabar including Palghat, went to British East India
Company.They created Malabar District and in 1800 it merged into Madras
Presidency. They began to control Malabar from Fort Of Palghat before
shifting their collectorate to Calicut. For some 50 years, Fort was also
used as an army cantonment before it got moved to Cannanore. (Kannur)
From 1830 onwards, our town developed rapidly. On understanding the
importance of Palakkad as an important centre of indian and overseas
trade and commerce. They founded the Municipality Of Palghat in 1866
A.D. on the instruction given by Lord Francis Napier, one of the great
mayors of Madras. They added more beauty to the city with their imposing
rest houses, private bungalows, jails, arm batteries,
gardens, factories, educational institutions, government buildings,
warehouses, shopping & trading buildings, cinemas, railway stations
&lines, new streets & roads, bridges, motor boats, strand,
churches, canals, aqueducts, markets, junctions, parks, squares etc to
resemble most beautiful European capitals including London & Paris.
Unlike other colonial masters, they never destroyed old artifacts &
architecture, they carefully restored it. Most of the British buildings
you are seeing in Palakkad are not purely European, but hybrids. The
first chairman was J.W.Dance. He was an able man. ‘Dance Market’ was
named after him. Until 1893, Asst.Collector of Calicut was the part time
Chairman of the municipality. Vice Chirman was the man with authority.
All this changed when Rao Bahadur P.I. Chinna Swamy Pillai took charge
as the first chairman of municipality of Palakkad.He was one of those
great persons who changed the face of the city we are living in. In
1955, this municipality become A Grade and continues till date with
pride.
After Kerala State Formation in November 1, 1956. Palakkad become the
Headquarters of newly formed district bearing the same name.The
anglicized name ‘Palghat’ was officially removed from the government
offices in 1994. Nowadays, the name is still in use with young
generation and tourists.
GEOGRAPHY
(Bharathapuzha Passes Through The Southern Boundaries Of The City. Joins With Kalpathy @ Parali On The Western SubUrbs. Photos Took From Thirunellayi Bridge.)
Like many great cities in the world, our city is also a 'River Bank City
On Low Hills & Plains'. Palakkad City is situated between two
rivers namely Kalpathy and Kannadi in the north & south
respectively. Malampuzha canal in the east joins these two rivers and
together with other streams joins to form Kerala’s largest river named
Bharathapuzha in Parali in the west.Thus Palakkad becomes a ‘Wonderful
Island’.In Ponnani the river joins the Arabian Sea.
The elevation differs from place to place ranging from 0 – 10 meters. In
hilly areas outside the city, number goes up. Climate is influenced by
Palghat Gap in the east, river plains in the central, Arabian Sea in the
west and Western Ghats in the north, north- east & south-east.
According to Coppen Classification,Palakkad has got a tropical climate,
like many places in the sub continent of India with an average rainfall
of 2348mm.In summer, temperature rises to 35-42 degree celsius. It is
surrounded by districts of Malappuram in the north, north-west
&west, Thrissur in the south and south-west, Coimbatore in the east
and south-east & Nilgiris in the extreme north.
GOVERNMENT
Palakkad is governed by a municipality dating 1866. The present
municipal area including Olavakkode Town is 26.60Sq.Kms with 52 wards
and a population of 3,25,000 people.(including working
population)Prameela Sasidharan is the Chairman of Palakkad Municipality.
District of Palakkad is governed from Civil Station.(see Palakkad
district) Municipality has no authority in there.
HISTORY BEHIND THE FORMATION
On 3rd of July 1866, a meeting was held at Fort St.George under Lord
Francis Napier, Governor Of Madras. There he proposed 3 municipalities
for Malabar and one for Kochi. They were Calicut, Palghat, Tellicherry
& Fort Cochin.Palghat was the second oldest one after Calicut in
Malabar District.But all the big developments was made in our
municipality,no other city in Malabar has that credit even today also.
First Chairman was J.W.Dance.The famous ‘Dance Market’ was named after
him.Until 1893,it was the Assistant Collector Of Kozhikkode who also
served as Chairman Of Palakkad.Vice Chairman was the real person who
rules.In April1,1893 Rao Bahadur P.I. ChinnaSwamy Pillai was elected as
the First Chairman Of Municipality Of Palghat.
(Victoria College Clock Tower-1951)
03/07/1866 – Foundation Of Municipality. Building & gardens got completed within 2 years.
1867 – J.W.Dance ,Assistant Collector Of Kozhikkode Sworn As Acting Chairman.
1868 – Fish & Meat Market then known as Dance Market, founded.
Munsif Court& General Hospital Since 1861.
1869-72: Traveller's Bungalow, T.B.Road was built.
1871-75 : New roads, telegraph lines, pipelines, drainage systems were added. Boat services were motorised along Nila River.
1873 - Olavakkode Railway Station Constructed.
1878 – Sub- Jail Started Functioning Inside The Taluk H.Q Building Inside The Fort.
1879/1880 ? - Fort Bungalow/District Court Been Built. (When I looked
through Palghat Town Map Of 1942 the now District Court Building was a
private building then. Two courts functioned that time, one at Old Govt
Hospital made in 1861 and another at Sub Jail Building constructed in
1878.)
1880 -? BEVCO Building Built.(Old Warehousing Corporation Building In English Church Road)
1881 – Rathna Velu Chetty Commited Suicide.
1882 - Jamal Studio, First Studio In Malabar Started Functioning.
1885 - Mettupalayam Street Athar Juma Masjid was built.
1886 ? - 'Present Sitics Company' Bungalow In English Church Road Was Made.
1886 - Tile Factory & Offices Started To Function @ Olavakkode. A
Bungalow Was Constructed For Guests & Managers. Later Founded Tile
Factories @ Shornoor, Kannadi, Kalpathy, Parali, Polpully etc.All These
Were Started By Basel Evangelical Mission. Later Took Over By British
Government After WWI From Germans And Renamed Common Wealth Tile
Factories.
1887 – Municipal Rate School Was Upgraded To Government Victoria College.
1888 - Palakkad Town Station Constructed.
1888 – Olavakkode & Palakkad Town Stations Got Connected To Each Other By Meter Gauge.
1888 - Town Railway Military Godowns were constructed.
1889 - Village Office Bungalow Constructed @ College Road.
1889 - Victoria Principal Quarters was built @ College Road.
1893 – Rao Bahadur Chinna Swamy Pillai Was Made The First Chairman Of
Palakkad. Anjuvilakku was made to honour Late Sri Ratnavelu Chettiar , a
martyr who commited suicide against White Supremacy Racism.
1907 - 'Veenapoovu' penned by Kumaran Aasan at Jainmedu. He stayed with Sree Narayana Guru in a Jain House for treating cancer.
1910 – Present Buiding Of Basel Evangelical Mission High School Was Built.
1910 - Foundation Of Mepparamba Church Laid.
1912 - Mepparamba Church Got Completed.
1913 - Palakkad Town North Police Station, Market Road began to function replacing the station inside fort.
1913 – Hostel For Boys Was Made For Victoria College Students.
1914 - WWI started. Olavakkode, Palghat Town & Shornur stations
became very busy packed with food items, soldiers, arms &
ammunitions carrying from Madras, Calicut, Tellicherry & Ponnani.
1914 - Shelling of Madras Port by German Emden Submarine, sweeps panic
among people of Palakkad. BlackOut ordered for some nights.
1914 - Swadesabimani Ramakrishna Pillai on exile at Vadakkanthara.
1915/ 1920? - 'The New india Trading Company' One Of The Leading
Wholesale Merchants & Importers At That Time Was Founded By
Adityapuram Krishnan.
1917 - A New Revenue Divisional Office Building Got Built, Replacing The Old One Built In 1880's In College Road.
1918 – Moyan School For Girls Was Built. (First Girls High School In Palghat City.)
1919 - Rabindranath Tagore invited to Govt.Victoria College.
1920s - First Fully Modern Printing Press Started @ Market Road Named
Scholar Press Starts Functioning. E.V Ramakrishna Shastri Of Elappully
Village Was The Founder.
1921 - Malabar Mappila Revolts. Though first started as a peaceful protest of Khilafat supporters under Muslim League & Congress against British government for abolition of Sunni Islamic Caliphate Of Ottoman Turkey in 1921. It soon turned into a horrible violent event of forced conversions, rape, exodus of victims to far off places, murders of humans and cattle, destruction of temples and houses. Malabar Special Police killed many mappila fanatics in a bloody war at Malappuram, Ponnani,
Mannarkkad, Tirur, Manjeri, Nilambur, Perinthalmanna. Palakkad,
Ottapalam, Pattambi, Alathur & Chittur remain neutral as these taluks are always under communal harmony.
1921 - Great Wagon Tragedy. The train which carried thousands of muslim fanatics from Tirur to Coimbatore passed through Olavakkode Junction without stopping.
1924 - Co-Operative Hospital was built for WW1 soldiers of British military.
1925 - Sabari Ashram Founded By T.KrishnaSwamy Iyer @ Akathethara.
1925 - Sheik Rowther Family Donates Land To House Electricity Supply
Offices & Power Generators @ T.B.Road. A Bungalow Was Built In The
Same Year, But Started To Give Electricity For The City Only In The Year
1933.
1920-27 : Independence struggle against caste inequalities got strengthened.
Temple & Brahmin Colony areas like Kalpathy, Vadakkanthara were the
main targets for protesters from Thandan, (Not to be confused with Thiyya Thandaan of Northern Kerala) Ezhuva, Mannaan, Cherumar, Parayar, Nayadi & Kuravar communities.(Although Malabar didnot had very big caste discrimination
like those in Cochin- Travancore Belt, some upper caste dominated areas in Palakkad,
Kannur & Kozhikode were really bad at that time.) Some Great Brahmin
Social Reformers like T. KrishnaSwamy Iyer supported & led these protests.
1934 – Sir Krishnan Nair Gate Was Built.
1935 ? - Vijaya Hall Constructed.
1936 – New Theatre Was Inaugurated. (Sree Devi Durga Theatre)
1936 - Palghat Co-Operative Urban Bank was founded.
1941 – Aqueduct In Karingarapulli Built.
1942 - Kalpathy & Kannadi River Bridges were built.
1942 – Kerala Nursing Home Was Built.
1942 - 1947 - Large Scale agitations against British in Palakkad for Independent Indian Union.
1943 - MadhavaRaja Club Founded.
1943 - Steam & Charcoal Powered Buses Started Their Services. N.C.Rowther Was The Person Behind This Idea.
1945 - WWII ended by forcing Japan to surrender.Millions were dead.
1947 – India Become Independent. Jawaharlal Nehru sworned as PM. Horrors of Partition.
1948 - Mahatma Gandhi shot dead by Nathuram Godse @ Birla Temple Compounds, Delhi.
1950 - India become republic. General elections were held.
1950 - 1965 - First Golden Period In Palakkad After Indian Independence.
1951 - Government Victoria College Clock Tower Building Was Built.
1952 - Palakkad Municipal Office Clock Tower Building Was Built Over the Old One As A Memorial To British Raj Rule.
1955 - Palghat Municipality becomes A grade.
1955 - Malampuzha Dam & Gardens Opened By K.Kamraj CM Of TamilNadu.
1956 - Formation Of The State Of Kerala. EMS Namboothiripad sworned as CM at Trivandrum.
1956 - Kerala's Biggest Housing Colony Started Functioning. Its Name Is ChandraNagar.
1956 - Agrarian reforms by V.R.Krishna Iyer. Hectares of land were seized by Government and given to poor peasants.
1957 - Palakkad district Formed On 01/01/1957.
1957 - Third Government Music College of Kerala State started
functioning. After Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavathar's death, college got
renamed by his name.
1960 - Jawaharlal Nehru inaugurates NSS College Of Engineering , Second Engineering College after Thiruvananthapuram.
1964 - Palakkad Town, its suburbs, Malampuzha, Ottapalam, Shornur etc
becomes a hotspot for many Tamil & Malayalam film shootings. It is
continuing till date also.
1969 - Formation Of Malappuram District. Palakkad District loses
Ponnani, Nilambur & Perinthalmanna Taluks. Left this district
landlocked.
1970s - Economic deppression. 'Gulf Boom' started.
1973 - Priyadarshini, First A/C Theatre in Palakkad Opened.
1974-75 : New Civil Station Building Inaugurated.
1975 - Projects for Palakkad delayed during 'Emergency Period'.
City & whole district becomes one of the poorest in India.
Unemployment in Palakkad and whole Kerala reaches its peak. Except
Trivandrum & Cochin urban areas.
1985-1998: City regains strength as an economic centre after
Ernakulam, Trissur, Trivandrum & Kozhikkode. (2nd Golden Period)
1986 - Kanjikkode- Walayar Industrial Belt Started.
1995 - First Amusement Park In Kerala Started Its name Is 'Fantasy Park' @ Malampuzha.
1998 - Old West Yakkara Bridge collapses, many people died.
2004 - First Mall In Malabar named, Malabar Fort Started @ Sultanpet.
2005 - Palakkad Civil Station Becomes India's First Fully Computerised CivilStation.
2005 - Ahalia Group Began To Function @ Kozhippaara.
2006 - Economic Boom In Palakkad. More & More New Companies
Opened Its Offices & Factories In The City & In Kanjikkode.
(Beginning Of 3rd Golden Period & Continuing Till Date)
2007 - First Pantaloon BIG BAZAAR(Future Group) In Kerala Opened @ City Centre Complex, Palakkad.
2008 - Kalpathy Agraharam Becomes First Heritage Village In The Country Recognised By Govt. Of Kerala & UNESCO.
2009 - India Today Survey Puts 'Palakkad 11th Among Top 25 Emerging Non-Metros In India'.
2009 - Biggest Railway Building In The State Constructed @ Olavakkode.
2009 - 2013 : Old Public Buildings Undergoing Renovation Works.
2013 - Palakkad District Public Library One Of The Biggest In The State Was Built In FortMaidan.
2014 - Government Medical College Began To Function @ East Yakkara Near Kannadi River.
2009- 2015 : National Highways Expanded Many Roads & Built Expressways Made Palakkad A Metropolis.
2015 - Palakkad Municipality Became The First Local Self Government
In The State Of Kerala Which Succeeded BJP To Hold Majority Seats In The
Elections.
2020 - IIT Palakkad Got It's Own Building @ Puthussery West.
RELIGION
Majority of the population follow Hinduism, followed by Islam,
Christianity.There are a small number of people who follow Jainism and
Buddhism. Many people are followers of Atheism which was a result of
Communist & Free Thinking Movements developed in the state before
and after 1947.
COMPOSITION
Hinduism : 35% (Vedic)
Hinduism : 15% (Non Vedic)
Islam (Hanafi) : 15%
Islam (Shafi) : 5%
Christianity (Protestant/C.S.I) : 7%
Christianity (Pure Catholic) : 4%
Christianity (Syro-Malabar) : 3%
Christianity (PentaCoste) : 3%
Christianity (Syrian Orthodox) : 2%
Jainism : 2%
Buddhism : 2%
Atheism : 7%
COSMOPOLITAN PALAKKAD
Tamil Speaking Brahmins Of Aryan Ancestry (Vadama, Brahacharanam, Ashtasahashram Iyers, Vadakalai Iyengars, Chozhiyars) Moothans, Tamil Rowther Muslims Of Turkic, Persian & Rajaputhra Ancestry, 24 Mana Telugu Chettis, Bandaara Chetties, Balija Naidus/Naayagars, Kannada Veera Shaiva Lingayats, Tamil Vaaniya Chettiars, Konars/Aayars, Maruthuvars, Sengunthar Kaikolar Mudaliars, Kannada Speaking Devanga Chetties, Shaiva Pillais, Tulu Brahmins, Urdu Speaking Pashthoon Muslims , Anglo-Indians, Tuluva Bunt & Kannada Jains, Malayali Protestants & Catholics From Thalassery, Coastal Thrissur & Kottayam, Tamil
Catholics From Naagapattanam, Mylapore, Malayali Maappila Muslims From Chaavakkad & Ponnani in medieval & modern times.All have contributed
greatly and even today also. Today,
Biharis, Bengalis, Punjabis, Rajasthanis, Gujarathis, North Easterners,
Nepalese all are co-existing with the majority population consisting of
65% Malayalam speaking people and 25%Tamil speakers the
second.(percentage is applicable for both city and district) Almost
everybody can understand, read,write and speak English and Hindi also.
CITY OF VILLAGES
Palakkad is known as ‘City Of Villages’. Although there are several
Tamil Brahmin Agraharams /Villages in the state of Kerala, the most
beautiful, oldest & large no: houses can only be seen in Palakkad
district. 70% living in there are Advaitha Vedanta Smaarthas. 20% Shree Vaishnavites And 10% contains Moothans &
Nairs. There are 98 such villages in the district. City Of Palakkad has
got 22 of them. They are : -
1. Chokkanathapuram
2. Govindarajapuram
3. LakshmiNarayanapuram
4. Sekharipuram
5. Old Kalpathy
6. New Kalpathy
7. Kumarapuram
8. Pallipuram
9. Adithyapuram
10. Thirunellayi
11. Nurani
12. Tharekkad
13. Nellissery
14. Ayyapuram
15. Ramanathapuram
16. Venkatesapuram
17. Varadarajapuram
18. Thondikulam
19. Ranganathapuram
20. Chathapuram
21. Vaidyanathapuram
22. Ambikapuram
STREETS OF PALAKKAD
Palakkad has some of the most charming streets which has its own distinct name, history, culture etc. Some of them are:-
1. Peerangi Sandh, Market Road .(‘Peerangi Sandh’ means ‘Cannon
Street’.This street was built by Tippu Sultan for keeping military
cannons to fight against British East India Company.)
2. Pada Theruvu, Nurani . (‘Pada Theruvu’ means ‘Cavalry Street’. This was built by Hyder Ali Of Mysore.)
3. Porikkara Street, Market Road. (Pori is a stuff made from rice.The
name derived from the settlement of merchants who make a living on
selling this item.)
4. Arikkara Street, Court Road. (Rice Merchant Street)
5. Erumakkara Theruvu, G.B. Road. (Buffalo Merchant Street)
6. Idayar Theruvu, Kalmandapam. (Shepherd Street) Konars/Aayars/Idayars live here.
Co-Operative Hospital (1924)
Beautiful Old Colonial Bungalows In Court Road, Sulthanpettah.
7. Bungalow Street, Court Road. (This beautiful road once consisted the
residences of rich merchants, officers of Tippu Sultan, civil servants
of British Raj. Now there are only few of them.)
8. Pattani Theruvu, Nurani (Pathan Muslims settled here, when HyderAli
Khan Of Mysore was invited by Raja Of Palakkad to protect his kingdom
against Zamorin & British.)
9. Diara Street: The First Urdu Masjid in Kerala was founded here by Hyder Ali. Pathan Muslims are the main settlers here.
10. Chetty Street: Vaaniya Chettiar Community lives here.
11. Moothanthara : Moothans are from Paththukudi community who lead their life by doing business, just like above mentioned
Chettiars.They came to this city in 15th Century A.D. Palakkad Raja gave
permission to built Kannaki Temple in this area.The place came to known
as ‘Moothanthara.’ Consists of beautiful merchant houses and bungalows,
dating 300years or more.
12. Chunnambuthara: ‘Chunnambu’ in Tamil(also in Malayalam) means
‘Limestone’. Once this place was famous for its fine quality of
limestone. Many people led their life by mining & making slaked lime
for a fortune.
13. Jainmedu: Jainmedu was the largest settlement of Jains in South
India after TamilNadu & Karnataka. All came to an end when Tippu
Sultan’s army men destroyed most of their houses during the period of
1766-67.(Read more on Jain Temple)
14. Chakkanthara : The English name for this street is ‘Oil Merchant
Street’. This area was a Syro Malabar Catholic settlement who came from
rural villages in the now Thrissur District.
15. Godown Street,Market Road : Best preserved Indian and European styled warehouses built in late 19th century to 1940's.
16. Vadakkanthara :This ancient road connects market road to Kalpathy in
the north. Consists of several old beautiful traditional architectures
much untouched by modernisation of the 21st century.
Vadakkanthara
Temple Is The Oldest Temple In The City & One Of The Oldest In
India. It was constructed for Kannagi who came to Palakkad after burning
down the entire Madurai City which was then under the rule of
Nedunchezhiyan I Pandyan King Of Madurai.It is believed to be 1600years
old.
Tharavathu Veedu where Swadeshabhimani Ramakrishna Pillai stayed for many years on exile.
PVS Hall was my Father's Grandma's property built in 1890s. Later sold to PVS Warrier.
Nellissery Village (Above)
17. Mettupalayam Street: You can buy almost anything from Mettupalayam
Street.It has many perfume shops, fancy stores, duty paid shops,
electronic stores, a flower market etc. Most of these businesses are
owned by Malayali Mappila & Tamil Rowther Muslim Communities. This
street is very unique and it is known as 'Little Kodambakkam', for the
presence of many cinema theatres, production & distribution
companies, cinema fan associations & advertising agencies. Palakkad
District Central Excise & Vigilance has its office in Mettupalayam
Street. Two mosques dominate the area. The oldest one is Mettupalayam
Street Athar Juma Masjid founded in 1880. And another one is 'Cheriya
Palli'.
18. Puthupalli Theruvu, Nurani (New Mosque Street): Oldest Mapilla
Muslim settlements in the city are Mepparamba & Pudupalli theruvu in
Nurani. It is only after 1912, Mepparamba became a part of Palghat
Muncipality. So, considering that fact in mind, we could understand that
this is the first Malayali Muslim neighbourhood in our city. Pudupalli
Theruvu Juma Masjid is one of the oldest in Kerala.
19. Kozhikkara Theruvu, Shornoor Road- Near Nurani : Means 'Chicken
Vendor's Street'. This street was once a leading area for poultry trade.
Kozhikara Street Masjid is a stylish mosque located near Hotel
Kapilavastu.
20. Tailor Street, Sultanpet: Once this street was fully dominated by
tailors & weavers from cities of Coimbatore, Tirupur, Kanchipuram
etc. Now there are only a few of them. They mainly came here during the
British Raj period to make uniform clothes for the officers and
soldiers. And also made clothes for leading textile shops in Malabar.
21. Rajput Street, Court Road : Rajput Street is where Rajput soldiers
camped @ Palghat under the orders of Mysore Wodeyar Raja's trusted
Commander HariSingh Of Rajaputhra Batallion to help HyderAliKhan Of
Mysore against Zamorin & British East India Company Troops.
22. Vaduga Street, Vennakkara : Telugu Balija Naidus live here.
23. Canara Street, G.B.Road : Kannadiga Veera Shaiva Lingayats once lived here.
24. Vysia Street, Court Road : Telugu Komati Chettiars are still living here. They founded Sri Kannika Parameshwari Temple.
25. Ennakottil Street, Market Road : Coconut Oil is the main product of
trade in here. This was started by Syro Malabar Christians from
Thrissur.
26. Vellan Street : There is a temple called 'Vellan Kovil' built by Tamil Vellalars.
27. Pension Street : This was where old government employees got pension during British period.
28. Robinson Road : Named after Late District Collector Of Malabar,
A.B.Robinson. Robinson CSI Church, C.S.I. School, B.E.M. Junior School,
Mission House are some of the main attractions in this street. There are
many hotels in this street. Many Anglo -Indians lived here during
British Raj Period. Today this area is one of the most poshest
localities in the city.
29. English Church Road, FortMaidan : This road connects B.E.M School
Junction to SBI Main Branch Junction in FortMaidan. One of the most
beautiful roads in the city was a busy area during British days. Holy
Trinity Church is the first Protestant Anglican Church in the city is
located in this road. New Mansion is one of the classic looking heritage
structures in the city once used as a warehouse & bungalow for
British officers. Now it is used by Kerala State Beverages Corporation
As A WareHouse.
Sitics Company is also situated on a classic heritage bungalow
made in 1880's & Madhavaraja Club one of the oldest premium clubs
founded in 1946 is also situated @ English Church Road. Town Square Club is another beautiful colonial building on nearby Racket Court Road. Tennis and Badminton were introduced first in Malabar District @Racket Court Club.(Town Square Club) Badminton in 1854 and Tennis in 1890.
Victoria College Principal's Quarters (1889)
30. College Road : College Road is the most fashionable avenue in
Palghat today. You can find almost all retail chains related to fashion,
food & many things in this road. Revenue Divisional Office, Judge's Bungalow, District Collector's Bungalow, Kollengode
Raja's Residence, Government Moyan Girls School, Chembai Memorial Music
College, Pandit Mothilal Government School, Govt.Victoria College,
Victoria Principal Quarters, Village Office Bungalow, Siruvani Dam Inspection Engineer's Inspection
& Malampuzha dam Inspection Engineer's Offices are some of the most
classic heritage buildings in the city. Guruvayoorappan Temple,
Tharekkad Simhanadha Bhagavathy Temple, Ganapathy Temple are the main
temples in College Road. KrishnaSwamy Iyer Park is the only children's park on College Road.
Revenue Divisional Office (1917)
Village Office II @ College Road. (1880)
Beautiful British Colonial Buildings Along Two Sides Of College Road.
Fashion Avenue, College Road.
M.D.Ramanathan Hall, Sharadha Krishna Iyer Memorial
Library, Palghat Fine Arts Society are the leading intellectual, literature, art, music, drama, hangouts
in this area.
Sir Krishnan Nair Gate divides the city into North & South. This
road is more cleaner and looks more European like FortMaidan & BEM
School Junction.
1. Kalpathy Heritage Village
Old Kalpathy, Sekaripuram, Kumarapuram & Govinda rajapuram are the second oldest on the banks of river Kalpathy after Lakshmi Narayanapuram. The village was built in 15th century by Raja Sekhari Varma
for Tamil Brahmin settlers from Tanjore, TamilNadu.The main reason is
that prince had fell in love with a tribal girl and decided to marry
her.But the priests in the Malayali Brahmin Namboothiri community did
not accept this decision. They even threatened Sekhari Varma that they
will make him outcast, if he proceed with his decision. But he didn’t
cared about the threat.Instead he boldly deported them and welcomed
‘Iyers’. They helped them to tie the knot and crowned him as Raja Of
Palakkad.Not all of them were priests, only half of them were priests.
Like many other brahmins they also engaged in professions such as
astrology, law, trading, administration, cooking, bureaucracy, music etc. After two centuries, many more
immigrant brahmins from Tanjore settled in Kalpathy and many parts of
the district fearing Islamic invasions after the downfall of
Vijayanagara Empire. Thus Kalpathy expanded till 1767.(Rule Of Tippu
Sulthan) New Kalpathy, Chathapuram, Ayyapuram, Chokanathapuram & Vaidyanathapuram were built on 18th century AD.
After marriage entire community were rewarded with gold coins, several
gifts, hectares of land etc.and the king told them to stay here.Even had right to engage in temporary living together relationship known as Sambantham with Nair women. Iyer community accepted
this, on one condition that they wanted their houses and mansions to be
built in Tamil Brahmanical Architecture used to built their Agraharams
in TamilNadu.Raja was happy to do so.The rest was history.
Even now also
you can see the beauty & strength of that 15th century architecture
in
houses, mansions,shops,temples in here. Kalpathy is renowned for its
vedic learning centres, Tamil and Sanskrit literature studies etc. It is
known as 'Varanasi Of South India'.
(Striking Similarities Between Kalpathy & Paris)
Other nicknames of Kalpathy and
parts of NorthPalakkad include, 'Medieval Paris Of South India' &
'Kerala Prague'. Most of the brahmins settled here are from
Brahacharanam sect of Iyer caste. Rest consists of AshtaSahashram,
Vadama and Vadakalai Iyengars too.
In the late 19th & early half of 20th centuries, Kalpathy was one of
the major centres of the Civil Rights Movements that took place in
various parts of India. KrishnaSwamy Iyer, a great Gandhian who founded
Sabari Ashram in Akathethara for the upliftment of underprivileged
castes, religions, races & classes belonged to this part of the
town. K.Seshadri Iyer, Diwan Of Mysore who is popularly known as
'Father Of Modern Bangalore City' was also born here. Diwan Bahadur L.K.
Ananda Krishna Iyer (1861-1937) the greatest Indian Anthropologist who
wrote Castes & Tribes Of Mysore and Caste & Tribes Of Cochin was
also from here.Malayatoor Ramakrishnan very famous CivilServant &
Novelist was born in Kalpathy. V.R.KrishnaIyer, Retired Honourable Chief
Justice Of Kerala High Court and Irrigation & Law Minister Of The
First Communist Government In Asia (Kerala State) was also born and
broughtup here.
M.D.Ramanathan was a great musician studied music from Kalpathy.
G.N.Seshadri ,the man who built first modern flour mill in the
municipality & Kalpathy S.Agoram of AGS films also belonged to the
business community in KalpathyHeritage Village.
Kalpathy is world famous for its Annual Chariot Festival held every year in the month of November for three days.
2. Jain Temple
Some people in the temple are saying that Jainmedu Jain Temple has been
around here for some 2000 years. That is during the Sangam period. Some major works in Tamil sangam literature was written by Jain monks/
believers. It's a truth. But as far as I researched the present temple
structure is only 500 years old. It was in 16th century,Ijn Satru &
Payippa Shetty were diamond traders from Mysore, Karnataka. On their
travels they frequently visited Palakkatussery both for trading and
pleasure. One day they camped here.That night Satru dreamt his late Jain
Guru/Thirthankara requesting him to ask Raja Of Palakkad to built a
great temple for peace at the banks of river Kalpathy. He woke up said
to his friend. Next day, they requested the king to allot land where
they camped at night. His response was positive.Land was alloted at that
place.For that they had to give 1000 rubies.After that this place was
known as ‘Manickya Pattanam/City Of Ruby’. Within one year temple was
built and hundreds of jains lived with their family peacefully for more
than 200 years.And this place came to be known as Jainmedu meaning place
for jains. But in 1776, when Tippu Sultan reigned Palakkad most of them
were driven out.Because of two reasons.
1. The jains who lived here were those people who got expelled by Mysore Wodeyar Raja for whom Tippu was working for.
2. Jainism doesnot believe in any God.
The temple was loosely inspired on Hampi, once Capital Of Vijayanagara
Dynasty a unique blend of Nagara/North Indian, Dravidian/ South Indian Jain styles of temple
architecture. The length is 32 feet and width is 20 feet high. Idols of
Thirthankaras and Yakshinis made of black stone is found on the
premises. The main idol in the sanctom is dedicated to the Jain monk
ChandraNathaSwamy in Padmasana(sitting) posture.
It was here Kumaran Asan, a great poet in Malayalam literature stayed
with Sree Narayan Guru in a house near the temple facing the river. He
wrote ‘Veena Poovu’ or Fallen Flower, one masterpiece which lifted his
career as a great poet in 1907 at Jainmedu.
3. Palakkad Fort/Tippu Sultan’s Fort
‘Tharoor Swaroopam’ the Royal Dynasty Of Palakkad was one of the most
powerful kingdom during the mid 14th- 18th centuries A.D. The kings were
known as ‘Varmas’ and their military generals were ‘Achans’, a division
among nairs of Palakkad. From Itti Kombi Achan onwards they become
powerful and some of them were crowned as rajas. One such king was Itti
Panki Achan who lived in the time of European Colonialisation of the
world. Most of the areas in today’s Palakkad and Malappuram districts
were under Valluva Konathiris, Kochi Rajas Palakkatussery & Kolengode kingdoms. Ravi Varma
Raja, Zamorin Of Kozhikkode pocessed a great threat for them.The
strategic importance of Palakkad serving as an important gateway for the
eastern and western coasts of India along with its hills, mountains,
forests, teak, minerals, spices, cotton &paddy fields on
the banks of Nila river has always attracted everyone. Zamorin was no
exception. In 1756, he annexed Mankara a western part under Achan. At
that time, our kingdom had no big army and he was a weak ruler.To drive
Zamorin away he seeked the help of Hyder Ali ,who was looking for an
opportunity to drive Britishers and to gain control of Malabar.Raja paid
him a sum of 2,00,000 gold coins to Hyder. On hearing this news Zamorin
offered 12,000,00 gold coins & made an alliance that he will not
disturb Palakkad Raja ever.Hyder agreed and told this to Achan.
Fine stone sculptures excavated from pond. Believed to be made during the rule of Pallava Dynasty (6th - 9th century A.D)
Zamorin didnot kept his word. He did not paid money and in 1766 he won
‘Mamangam’, captured Valluvanad consisting of Ponnani a great port on
the mouth of Nila River. Raja Of Valluvanad escaped to the mountains in
Mannarkkad and didnot surrender till 1792. Next man on the list was
Palakkad Raja. But Hyder Ali wanted to take revenge on him.Tippu Sultan
and his forces along with Hyder stormed on the territories annexed by
Kozhikkode Raja.Several soldiers were brutally murdered. Feared Zamorin
seeked British to help. During the period of 1766-71, Palakkad Fort was
under construction Hyder’s army had been attacked in 1767, by the
British troops under Colonel Wood.But they failed miserably. Several
parts of the fort was destroyed. They rebuilt it in a grand scale with a
blend of Indian & French architectures.
Local people also joined to construct the new fort. Within six years, a
masterpiece was produced.
In 1782, Hyder Ali died and Tippu was crowned as Sultan.After some
years, In 1784, Colonel Fullerton a brave officer captured the fort
within 11 days with a bitter war. At that time Tippu was fighting war in
Mysore. On hearing the news,he sent more men here. But it was too late
and Union Jack was fluttering on the top of it.After Treaty Of
SriRangapattinam, all the pocessions in Malabar were handed over to
British East India Company in 1790. In 1800, Malabar become a district
in Presidency Of Madras.
English East India Company Soldiers & Officers Were Given Treatment In This Military Hospital Established In 1790.
Assistant Apothecary's House Built In 1790.
One of the most beautiful features are: 1. The fort is rhombus in shape.
2. Built with a mix of Asian & European styles. 3. Has got a big
moat with many species of turtles, fishes and birds. 4. Sub Treasury
& Archeological Survey Of India is located in a classic British
building constructed in 1878 inside the fort. Sub Jail started
functioning in the same building in the year 1878. 5. Fort Museum &
pond is also located inside the fort. It contains many fine stone
sculptures believed to be made during Pallava Dynasty found from
excavations of the moat. And many Neolithic Pottery plates made of clay.
6.First English Garden In Palakkad Is Located Inside The Fort
Constructed In The Year 1784. 7. First Military Hospital In Malabar District Was Established Here In The Year 1790. 8. There is a Hanuman Temple, an inner
gate & four mandapas, and walls engraved with Goddess Lakshmi &
Ganapathi. These are believed to be the remains of an Old Fort built by
Raja Of Palakkad. 9.Armoury Building was later used as Granary. 10. Rappadi Open Air Auditorium is situated on backside of the fort.
4. Vatika Gardens
Vatika Gardens is a paradise, arguably one of the most beautiful and
well- preserved parks in the state. More and more young couples are
coming from across Kerala and even people from nearby states are also
coming with a videographer to shoot them with this background. Children
will not get bored, there are several things for them to play.So don’t
worry.
Location of the park itself is wondrous. On the left side, you have the
iconic Fort Of Palakkad. In right you have A.R.Menon Memorial Park . And
if you go straight, you have Children’s Park. Forest Tribunal and
District Tourism Promotion Office is also situated there. Bridge is one
of the best attractions in the park. With different species of plants,
flowers, trees,landscape you will wonder that you are actually in a
city. The view from the bridge is amazing, from here you can see all the
directions and places I mentioned above.
All those who are above 12 has to buy a ticket of Rs.5/- and those who
use still camera must pay Rs.10/- (no charge for cell phone cameras) and
for videography Rs.25/- ticket including entry fee.
5. A.R.Menon Memorial Park
Largest park after Malampuzha Gardens in the district is named after the
great A.R Menon, who started Kerala Nursing Home.Also served as our
Municipal Chairman twice & once as Health Minister Of Kerala State.
This park is maintained by municipality of Palakkad and requires no
fees.
Main attractions are:
1. Hundreds Of Plant & Tree Species.
2. Statue Of A.R.Menon.
3. Children’s Park and Vatika Gardens Are Near To It.
6. Maidan
Fort Maidan (1766) is the second oldest open air grounds in Kerala after
Parade Ground, Fort Kochi (1505)and also one of the most beautiful in
the country. Maidan
was designed by the same French architect who designed the Fort Of
Palakkad. Tippu Sultan used maidan for his horses and elephants to rest
and to give training for his cavalry.After Treaty Of Srirangapattanam of
1790, the maidan was took over by British East India Company along with
the fort and entire Malabar Region. During
British Raj period, Fort Maidan was the venue for their regular police
& military drills, parades. During leisure times, this place was
their regular venue for conducting horse races, cricket matches,
meetings, picnic spot for children from aristocratic families etc. This
was one of the main venues associated with public demonstrations during
Indian independence struggles.
Since some years, a major part has been taken by B.C.C.I who hosts Renji
Trophy in national level and Kerala Cricket Association organizes
training for students,arranges matches for state level.But all people
can come here for relaxation, the area is not restricted.
The rest is known as Small Maidan.(below) Exhibitions, Meetings etc are
held here. Martyr’s Column is a memorial for all those great sons &
daughters who fought for the independence of India. A basket ball ground
is an added attraction found in the maidan. Open Air Gym is a latest attraction in the area.
ARCHITECTURE
Palakkad is one of the best cities in India to explore architectural
wonders. Palakkad is the 'Architecture Capital Of Kerala'. Our city
& whole district is rich in architecture.
Dravidian Temple Style, Tamil Brahmin Agraharam Styles, Chettinadu
Style, Thai , Kerala Hindu Styles, Jain, Moorish, Islamic,
Persian/Iranian, Afghan, Saracenic(Arab), Anglican Church Style, Dutch Renaissance Style, Tudor
& Victorian,(British Styles) Baroque & Romanesque, (Italian)
Neo-Classical, (Greeco-Roman) Portuguese, French Ornate, Gothic German, (Other European Styles) ArtDeco (1920s -40s American
Style)and lot of new 21st Century building styles are abundantly found
here more than any other city of this size in Kerala.
Only cities that can challenge Palghat in terms of architecture are Cochin & Trivandrum.
Although there were buildings and streets in Palakkad before 15th
century A.D. Most of them got destroyed by war, fire, floods etc. But
nowadays, our city authorities and government are spending lot of money
to restore old, beautiful architecture dating from 1500's to 1950's.
Materials used here for most of great old buildings include jaggery,
lemongrass along with common materials such as limestone, sand, granite,
water, clay, gravel, rock, hard red brick, teak, rosewood, sandalwood,
marble etc. Clay tiles and glass are used for making
roofs.
Use of cement only began from late 1940s. Use of concrete, plastic,
steel are greatly used for latest flats, office blocks, shopping &
commercial buildings.
Top 20 Architectural Delights In The City Are:-
1. Anjuvilakku (5 Headed Lamp)
This 5-branched lamp was built in the year 1893 for comemorating a great
martyr Sri Pulicat S.RathnaVelu Chettiar. He was the first Indian to
serve as Vice Chairman Of Palghat Municipality. Many British officers
didnot liked this.Because most of the higher officers at that time were
English or Scottish only.
That was one fine morning in September 28,1881 entire city was
celebrating the glorious 15th year of the Second Biggest Municipality Of
Madras Prasidency. Several big shots were invited for the function.
Capital of Malabar was Kozhikkode(Calicut) at that time, so the District
Collector was also present at the function. He was a Britisher. V.A.
Bradick was the Assistant Collector Of Kozhikkode & Chairman Of
Palakkad. He introduced his staffs to the Head Collector , as many
people know that he was a racist they didnot shaked his hands. But
Chettiar shooked and collector got angry, he washed his hands with
water. People astonished with this action. Rathnavelu Chettiar ended his
life on the evening inside the office. After so many years, Rao
bahadhur Chinnaswamy Pillai took charge as the First Indian Chairman In
Palghat Municipality. In 1893 a classic lamp post with beautiful French
design was built to commemorate a great martyr.
Even today also, most of the socio-political processions begin or end at Anjuvilakku. The lamp is lighted in the evening.
2. Old Munsif Court
The Old Munsif Court is one of the finest colonial buildings in Kerala. A blend of 19th century British Victorian mixed with Dutch Renaissance Architecture is beautiful to
watch.
This was the first hospital opened for Indians in the year 1861. Before that treatment was given to British officers, lawyers, judges and soldiers only. Hospital functioned on the ground floor of this building. Because the right side and upper
floors was already dominated by munsif court house. Sessions court and hospital for Britishers functioned inside the fort. After Kerala state formation in 1956,
both courts shifted to Fort Bungalow. And came to known as Palakkad
District Court. So,the entire building was for the hospital.
Anjuvilakku & Old Hospital Building In One Frame.
After some years, three more new blocks had been made. Now the hospital
has got a nursing institution and more recently a seperate block for
children & women. This hospital got many awards for excellence,
including three consequtive times for Best Hospital Of Kerala.The old
building has been painted and well maintained after the celebrations for
the future generations who love the Old Colonial Architecture.Another distinct features are the glass windows, arch like facades &
the tower at the centre which measure 25.25 ft from the ground to the
apex.
3. Palakkad Municipality Office Building
Palakkad Municipality Office is the most beautiful among local self
government buildings in Kerala State. The tiled roof building was built
around the year 1866 - 1868 period. The present clock tower building was
constructed in the year 1950-52 period. It was during the rule of Sri
Sankara Reddy this building was completed. This classic make over was to
celebrate the Indian independence & to give tribute to British Raj Rule.
One of the most beautiful features is the design and colour. Victorian
Architecture is clearly seen.The extreme two sides of the balcony
resembles Fort St.George.On the top floor of the entrance has got a sun
rays like design,representing the British Empire.The design of the
balcony & columns are equally good.The main highlight of the
building is its 4 Faced Clock Tower. Municipal Garden is the oldest
public park in the city.Anybody can come to relax.A Lady Watering The
Plants and Mahatma Gandhi are the two statues in the park.
4. New Mansion/BEVCO Building
New Mansion is one of the oldest buildings in the city which need care.
Not much is known about the building. For so many years this majestic
building has been using as a warehouse by Kerala State Beverages
Corporation.Whether it is made by Indian or Foreigner, couldn’t findout
the details.But one thing is for sure, whoever made this masterpiece is
great.
Look at the architecture, a unique mix of Asian and British styles.
Upper, lower roofs and sunshade arch is typical Kerala- Hindu- Buddhist
Architecture . Both floors and its windows and entrance are early 19th
century English Architecture.
This monument is located on English Church Road, Fort Maidan opposite Hotel Indraprastha.
5. Old Fort Bungalow(District Court)
Like New Mansion the details of this beautiful masterpiece is not known
even for the people working in the court. It is the most embarassing
thing.I mean you have a magnificient piece of history in the building
you are seeking the job and you don’t even know any detail about it.
The main building is average looking one.Most imposing are the three
beautiful towers .Biggest one is on the centre, it has a red glass
window.Tallest one is on left measuring about 35ft long from the ground
to apex. Third one is slightly different.It has got a large roof
compared to second one. All the three towers are made using a blend of
four different types of architectural styles. Such as Thai,
(Buddhist& Hindu) Indian, (Kerala) Victorian (British)&
Gothic.(Medieval Western European)
A new court complex is soon going to come at West Yakkara let’s hope
that on doing so this building will be preseved with more care for
future architecture and urban history lovers.
6. Old Kerala Nursing Home
Old Kerala Nursing Home was built in the year 1942. It was founded by
Dr.AR.Menon, who served as our Health Minister of Kerala during the year
05.04.1957-31.07.1959 in the First Elected Communist Government In
Asia. He learned Medicine from Dublin, then on Britain who came from
Ambat Family in Chittur,which was situated at Cochin Royal Kingdom then.
This family has contributed more to India than any other in the state.
Ambat SivaRamaMenon, Dr.A.G. Menon, A.Eachara Menon, Ambat Parvathy
Amma, Dr.A.N. Menon, A.K. Menon, Samuel Albert, Dr.A.N.K Menon, Madhu
Ambat & Vidhu Bala are the other great & famous ‘Menons’ from
Ambat Family Of Chittur. A.R. Menon also served as Chairman Of Palghat
Municipality.
The building is a simple architecture made using black -ash stone and
wood designed in Anglican Protestant Church Architecture of 17th &
18th centuries A.D. A wheel on the top of the apex of the facade, two
small cute fountain like shapes on either sides, a designed window and
balcony are the highlights of this building.Today nursing home is no longer been in the building, because it has
been shifted to a new one in the back during the 1960s. Some shops are
working in this heritage building where once a reputed hospital built by
a great man stood.
7. Diara Street Urdu Masjid
Diara Street Masjid is the Oldest Urdu Masjid in Kerala built by Hyder
Ali Khan Of Mysore in 18th century. He was father of Tippu Sultan served
as army general of Mysore King who came to protect Raja Of
Palakkatuserry against forces of Zamorin and British East India company.
Palakkad city doesnot had any mosque or church till 18th century,
because the religions in the city& suburbs were predominantly
Hinduism & Jainism in Southern India.Snake & Nature worship
were a common feature in Kerala for centuries. Also had a few
atheists. Hyder,Tippu and his Pathan soldiers needed a mosque to
worship. The nearest one is situated on Ponnani a great seaport and
Islamic learning centre 65kms west on the Arabian Sea Coast. This was a
big problem for a religious man like Hyder, so he needed a mosque. He
requested the king to build a mosque which gives teachings in Urdu &
Arabic. Raja sent his men along with Khan to locate a place for the
mosque. They chose Tharekkad a beautiful and peaceful location. Within
months a small mosque was built ,several soldiers settled there and came
to be known as ‘Diara Mohalla’ or ‘Diara Street’ meaning Mosque Street.The architecture is Indo-Afghan Style of simple type. Now this mosque
has teachings in Malayalam and Tamil besides Urdu and Arabic.
8. B.E.M Higher Secondary School
Hope
what you think that this is some kind of loosely Notre Dame inspired
castle or church or something? Guess what its a school. Not an ordinary
school but a school founded in 1858 by Reverand J.Strobel, a German
Protestant missionary based at Switzerland called Basel Evangelical
Mission. The first principal was Mr.Pothen. He was an able teacher and
the progress of the school was rapid. In the year, 1860 it came to known
as Anglo- Vernacular School Of Palakkad. Then it become a middle school
in 1864 and finally a high school in 1905.
The school made a great impact in the history of India as a
whole.Because, the learning at that times was restricted for certain
castes. And girls were not at all allowed to read or write. In 19th
& early 20th centuries Kerala played a great role for Indian
Renaissance as a whole.One of the main reasons for the change is the
introduction of English education headed by Christian missionaries
mainly Protestant and land was donated by local landlords.
Architecture is superb.It was built in the year 1910.The two main castle
like structures were inspired on Notre Dame in Paris resembling a
medieval Gothic style used in Western Europe. The other two sides are
made by fusing English- Tudor style and Moorish- Spanish styles. It was
made by a German architect named T.Maeu, a genius in his own right.
And I had the priviledge to study in this prestigious school for one
year in 1998. Versatile Film Director KS Sethumadhavan, Delhi Metro Rail
Chairman E.Sreedharan & Former Election Commissioner T.N.Seshan,
Late Great Malayalam Novelist,Journalist & Cartoonist O.V. Vijayan
are some of the few legends who had their best school life in olden
days.
9.
Government Victoria College
It was in the year 1866, a rate school was established in the building
of an army mess house of Sepoy Regiment got vacated from here to another
place six years back. During that time the school was funded by the
newly begun ‘Municipality Of Palghat’, appointing Mr.G.E. La Nause as
the first principal. In the year 1871,the institution was taken over by
the Local Fund Board.They appointed T.C.ElseWorthy as the headmaster who
was a talented teacher good at English,History & Geography was very
much interested in the developmental activities paved the way for the
college that we see today.In the year 1887,the ‘Golden Jubilee Of Queen
Victoria As The Empress Of Britain & Her Colonies’ was celebrated
with pride everywhere. The high school’s name got changed into Victoria
Jubilee College. Raja Of Palakkad, MR SekharaVarma laid the foundation
stone on the land given free of cost by the counciller, Nellissery
S.Narayana Iyer.It took two years to construct the main clock tower
building also the main building of the college even now. And in 1889,
the institution was affliated to Madras University becoming the second
greatest college in the presidency for several decades & also the
first college in Malabar District.
Victoria is one of the few colleges in the country which has got a
charming Gothic style ClockTower located on the top of a Greeco-Roman
mixed with Kerala & Victorian architecture building. Another
attraction is the boys college hostel built in 1913 using Gothic
architecture.
Sir M.KrishnanNair, Dr.AR Menon, KP Keshava Menon, L.K.AnanthaKrishna
Iyer, O.V.Vijayan, M.T.Vasudevan Nair, V.T.Bhattathiripad, TN Seshan,
EMS Nampoothiripad were some of the legends who walked through that gate
reaching the heights that several people never dared or dreamed off.
The list is endless.
10. Sir Krishnan Nair Gate
The most beautiful gate in the state of Kerala, Sir M.Krishnan Nair Gate
(1932) was modelled on Arc De Triompe(1839) in Paris and India Gate
(1921) of NewDelhi. This gate divides north and central parts of the
city.College Road,(south) Ayyapuram Road,(north) College Road
Extension(west) & 100 Feet Road(east) are the four great roads
radiating like sun rays. It is the main entrance for Govt.Victoria
College.
Sir M.Krishnan Nair(1878-1938) the Diwan Of Travancore, was an old
student and lecturer of this college.The main purpose that led to the
construction of a permanent gate was to replace the old one.And one more
thing, there was a bazaar near the gate’s entrance.Dr.Papworth was the
principal at that time.He requested the municipality to replace it to
another area, thus they moved the market.After some days the foundation
stone was laid for the gate.Within one year the gate was completed and
named as ‘Sir Krishnan Nair Gate’.
The major controversy was among the people who were supporting Indian
National Congress which was gaining huge importance throughout the
subcontinent.The main reason was Sir George Stanley (1872-1938),the
Governor Of Madras was about to inagurate the gate. A big protest broke
out infront of the gate when he came. ‘Governor Go Back’ was the slogan
with black flags in hand.
Police arrested the mob and released later.This marked the birth of
Palakkad Taluk Congress Comittee headed by R.Raghava Menon and
M.V.Ramanunni.
Even today,all the peaceful protests begin from Sir Krishnan Nair Gate
and ends in Anjuvilakku or Civil Station Gate in Fort Maidan.
11. Government Moyan’s Girls High School
There was a time when girl children in most of the communities were
generally not allowed to achieve basic education. The vision of one
great man, who was a rich landlord changed all. His name was Moyan P.
Kunhiraman who was born and brought up at Cheruvathur inThalassery now
in Kannur District. It was one of his dreams to start a school for girls
in his native place. For that he deposited a huge amount of money at
Madras DPI the authority which managed Government Victoria College. But
the Government Of Madras found very low chances of girls going to school
in Cheruvathur at that time. He got disappointed and was about to leave
the office. A man named Swamy approached him and suggested to start the
school in his city, a bustling & biggest city of Malabar, which has
welcomed people from all places and their ideas. It was none other than
Palakkad. Madras DPI also thought about it seriously and send men to
analyse the scope for a girls school here.They founded it to be correct,
and within two years the school was built.
Originally the land where the school was built had a horse farm and a
small medical clinic near to it. The government acquired the land and
alloted for the school. In 1918, the main colonial building was completed.
Started with only a handful of students the institution reached a steady
growth with 630 in 1948. The famous non residents of the district who
visited include Dr. Leelavathi principal of Queen Mary’s College,
Mrs.Lowie De Erichbeg Berlie, V.SatyaMurthy, V.V. Parameshwaran Iyer
were examples. British government continued monitoring of the school
until the country became republic. And for honouring Moyan P. Kunhiraman
the name was changed to ‘Government Moyan Girls School’.
The only two beautiful schools in Palakkad at that time were BEM High
School, Manjakulam and Moyans School, Tharekkad. Architecture used to
create the building is Kerala (Indian) - Franco- Victorian Style
developed in the 19th century. Two ferocious lions sitting next to each
other under an old electric lamp is another added charm.
Two majestic lions made of solid copper, painted in silver colour is one
of the most beautiful but unrecognised statues in the city. An old
electric lamp is situated in between the two.
12. St.Sebastin Cathedral (Matha Church)
St.Sebastin Church or Matha Church is the most beautiful church and one
of the rarest churches in the world to have a dome. It is situated
between Palayapet and Sultanpet in Central Palakkad. There was always
christian presence in the city even before 18th century.The fact is that
they didnot live here but frequently visited for trade and on their way
to St.Francis Church, Melarcode in Chitilancherry of Alathur for
praying. It was in the year 1761, Fr. Pavoni visited the place and
obtained a plot of land in Periyakovilpalayam now in Coimbatore District
from King Of Palakkad to built a church which offers services in Tamil,
Malayalam & English languages. It was mainly for Tamil Christians
who came from Tanjavur,Tiruchirapalli and Dindigul settled in Kalpathy,
Palakkad. Soon it became the mother church for the entire Palghat-
Coimbatore Belt.
In the middle of the that century, some catholics of the Panchamas from
Kolar settled at Siruvaipalayam.Father Pavoni ordered to built a church
at Siruvaipalayam and Sultanpet around the year 1763-65. From 1850
onwards St.Sebastin church got its own parish priest after the visit of
Manager Bonnand in 1842. For many years it was the Italian priests who
were appointed as bishops in this church.
The architecture is amazing , a wonderful blend of Baroque & English
Styles looks small from the front but looks very big when watched from
this angle from a certain distance it resembles Victoria Memorial Of
Kolkata. This cathedral was inspired on St.Paul's Cathedral Of London
and was built during the period of Father Bardou in the year 1861-63
period.Recently, a new Roman Catholic Diocese Of Sultanpet had been
created commemorating 150 years of the cathedral in 2013.
13. Parakkunnam Juma Masjid
The location of the mosque once had an old fort built by Palakkad Rajas
guarded by Nair warriors. After Tippu Sultan rose to power he conqured
the fort by defeating them. Most of the fort got destroyed by cannon
ball attacks. So, what Tippu Sultan did was he constructed a mosque for
him and his Pathan and Rowther Soldiers.Although there were several
mosques built on Palakkad by them,there were no muslim worshipping
centres on the north. All those mosques were very small ones and
unattractive ,so they wanted a large one with beautiful exteriors and
interiors. The construction started in 1772. After three years they made
it.
None of the people today don’t know how the structure was 200 years
ago.The structure we see today is a 19th century Indo- Saracenic
Architecture mixed with Arabic and Persian influences. The interior has
beautiful tiles and a Belgian Chandelier.The minarets are illuminated
evey night.
14.
Adityapuram Sreekrishnaswamy Temple
Adityapuram Sri Krishna Swamy Temple is one of the most beautiful
&well preserved original temple structures in the city.This temple
was built by Tamil Vadakalai SriVaishnavites who came from Kancheepuram, Thanjavur and Trichy in
TamilNadu, when Maalik Kafur commander of Delhi Sulthanate ruthlessly sacked towns of Madurai, Kanchipuram, Kumbakonam & SriRangam in 14th century A.D. This village is 800 year old. Adithyapuram, Pallipuram, Thirunellayi, Lakshmi Narayanapuram & Aalampallam villages are affiliated with Ahobila Mutt, Andhrapradesh. We follow Shree Rangam Panchaangam.
As far as genetic studies and cultural aspects of Vadakalai Iyengars is concerned we are very much related to Ashtasahasram Iyers than Vadama. Ashtasahasram Iyers were traditional custodians of Narasimha Temples in Tamilnadu. Similarly Ahobilam also have Lakshmi Narasimha Temple. Both Vadakalai Iyengars & Ashtasahasram Iyers have origins from Pallavan Empire Capital Kanchipuram & Ennayiram near Thindivanam.
Tamil Brahmins have largest percentage of Sintastha Culture blood among all South Indian Brahmins. (Others reach 17% max)
Iyers - 13% - 20%
Iyengar - 11% - 20%
And we have the largest percentage of Indus Valley Civilization blood (Proto Elamites From Zagros Mountains, Iran + South Asian Hunter Gatherers Mix) among all Brahmin groups in India.
Iyers - 53% - 70%
Iyengars - 48% - 65%
Wow..😃👌🏻 Proud to have both in large amounts.🇮🇳
Closest Genetic Distance Of Tamil Brahmins To Other Communities.
1. Telugu Brahmins
2. Malayali Nairs
3. Malayali Nasranis
4. Gujarati Baniyas
5. Punjabi Gujjars
6. Marathi Brahmins
7. Kannada Brahmins
8. Konkani Brahmins
9. Bengali Brahmins
10. UttarPradesh Kayasthas
Courtesy: South Asian Ancestry/Reddit
As Kerala Iyers already followed Advaitha philosophy of Sri Adi Sankara most people never cared about Sri Ramanujacharya's Visishtadwaitha. Because according to them Adwaitham is very close to Vedas & Upanishads.Though Vedas say about a formless Creator God called Ekam Sath or Brahman. It never denies the right of believers to worship many Gods & Goddesses ie Devas & Devis from Vedic pantheon. But Vedic religion strictly warn people not to make images or idols for worship. Devas & Devis have same divinity. But different duties & functions except Indra. Lord Indra, (omnipresent) Mithra,(friend of Varuna) Varuna,(preserver of cosmic law/Rta) Agni(inner fire of human desire) are the most important Gods in Vedas. Followed by Prithu, Soorya, Saraswathi, Soma, Savithr, Adithyas, Ashwins, Prajapathi, Yama, Rudra, Bhaaga, Pushan, Vishnu. Indrani, Vaaruni, Prithvi, Saraswathi, Ushas, Sanjna are the chief goddesses in Vedic religion. Vedas denies existance of hell, heaven, rebirth or parallel universe. Neither it speaks about judgement day of so called true god. (Punishing God or God's Wrath) According to Vedas, everything in this universe is madeup from one absolute reality .(All planets, stars, living beings, even Devas and Devis) Devas and Devis exists everywhere. They do all the natural phenomena in universe and exists in everyone's consciousness. So nothing super natural. We pray for confidence, to inspire us to do great things. But Vishishtadwaitham is more close to MahaVishnu worship & bhakthi maargam more close to Manu & Puranas. In Vishishtadwaitham Vedas & Upanishads have only second place. The term Iyengar doesn't exist at those time.
But later Vedantha Desikan said that knowledge of Vedas and Upanishads is also necessary and not just full devotion as prescribed by Ramanuja. Thus Vadakalai Iyengar faction formed.
Our Adimakkavu is situated at Ootukulangara Bhagavathy Temple @ Peruvemba.
Lakshmi Narayanaswamy Temple, Pallippuram Village. (Above)
Ottupura Madom - My Grandfather House (Father's Side) Sold For Another Family Years Ago.
The temple & the villages of Adityapuram and Pallippuram was
constructed in 14th century by my father’s great great grandfather.He
was one of the biggest barons who controlled almost all brahmin villages
in today's Palakkad District.A company called 'New India Trading
Company' founded by my father's grandfather Adityapuram Krishna Bhattar functioned well at those times.But after the death of my grandfather
Late Sri Adityapuram VeeraRaghava Iyer(Note: Iyengar Bhattar changed to Iyer as they wanted to end cold war with Advaitha followers by marrying their women and vice versa)everything ended. This was my
father's ancestral house.(see above)Now we are living for some 18 years
in my mother's ancestral home in Elappully 13kms southeast of Palakkad
city.Her father E.V.RamaKrishna Sastri started a company called 'Scholar
Press' in Market Road. He was also a learned and rich man.
He is from Ashtasahasram sect who follow Adwaitham and wear Vibhuthi Of Lord Shiva. Our mother's ancestors were Shastrikal.Our KulaDaivam is Santhi Durga Parameshwari.
The architecture is beautiful and not altered for centuries, unlike
other villages in the city. Like all agraharam houses and mansions it is
also built by Tamil Brahmanical Architecture. But this temple is
designed using Kerala Temple Architecture Style.
Annual Chariot Fest is held every year and Kumbabishekom is held every 12 years.
15. Mepparamba CSI Church Of Hope
Mepparamba Church is the third oldest protestant cathedral and the only
one with original architecture found today in the district.No change has
been made for the past 100 years.But it is well maintained.It was
designed by Gustav Peter, a German architect came to Palakkad on request
of Basel Evangelical Mission to build a church and a tile factory(read
page) at Mepparamba and Kavilpad respectively.
The name Church Of Hope is named after the building was completely
collapsed before completion.They all got very disappointed. All of them
prayed to the lord for several days. After that Gustav and mission
ordered to rebuilt the church. And the result is the wonderful one you
are seeing today. Even today also, the believers are believing that it
was due to prayer that the church didnot collapsed till date.
16. Nurani Village
Nurani is the village which is considered to be one among the biggest in
Palakkad district of Kerala state in India comprises Tamil Brahmins.
This village is 400 year old. Beautiful & well maintained consists of several
old heritage buildings and temples.
Considering the
location of the agraharam near Valiyangadi(Big Bazaar) we could
understand that this village made a great fortune on sharing profits
from trade and commerce to built what is Nurani of today.Nurani
Parameshwara Bhagavathar one of the legendary musicians at the palace of
Swathi Thirunal was from Nurani. Nurani consists of many streets like
Single Street, Double Street etc. Other than Nurani,
Thondikulam,Rangarajapuram & Varadarajapuram are the other beautiful
agraharams each having their own distinct heritage welded into one.
Annual Shastha Preethi & Lakshadeepam held here are famous for being
exciting and spiritually evoking among the people in and around
Palakkad.
17. Thirunellayi Village
Thirunellayi is a south western village situated on the banks of Kannadi
river. It is 700 years old.And it has a history similar to Nurani,
Pallipuram and Adityapuram.Most of the brahmins here are Vadakalai SriVaishnavites.
A Story From Tretha Yuga (Below)
Thirunellai, often known by its old name, 'Thiruvillakadavu', got its name from a small incident related to the travel of Rama during his exile, often referred to as Ramayana. It is said that Rama during his exile had traveled through river Nila, banking the village and had used his arrow(villu). So the name comes from "villu" meaning arrow and "kadavu" meaning banks of river.
The architecture is excellent. A big similarity between Kalpathy Village &
Thirunellayi is the fact that both are situated on the two branches of
the same river Nila/Bharathapuzha. One follow mainly Shrautha -Smartha, Adwaitham &
another one only SriVaishnavism. But compared to Kalpathy, this village is
small and Thirunellai is the
only brahmin village in Palakkad city situated on the banks of Kannadi
river. Sri T.N. Seshan, Election Commissioner Of India belongs to this village.
Annual chariot fest is the biggest attraction.Although connected to the
other parts of the city, this village is the farthest and remotest of
all villages in the city.
18. Palakkad Junction Railway Station
The building we see today was not at all old, compared to the railway
line constructed here by the British Government in 1873. Keeping in mind
that Palghat(in English) would one day become a busy city, they wanted
to construct the third biggest terminus of the Madras Presidency outside
the city.So they chose Olavakkode an old abandoned village, north of
Kalpathy river where Royal Family Of Palakkad is situated.
Although the station made a huge impact on boosting the economy and
lives of the people here, it was not more than a dirty terminus with no
proper facilities for passengers and had an ugly building.But since
three years the things had changed, Manmohan Singh led UPA Government
(Or Sonia Gandhi headed)ordered the construction of a world class
building reflecting the past, present & future of Kerala as a
whole.It was proposed by then Railway Minister Shri O.RajaGopal in the
BJP led NDA Government in 1998-2003. Cleanliness & facilities had
also improved a lot.
Speaking of art & architecture, there is a huge mural painting
depicting traditional folk dance forms of ‘Theyyam’ & ‘Padayani’ on
the wall of the top floor visible when passing through the entrance. The
whole exterior structure is based on Kerala Hindu Temple
Architecture which was a prominent architectural style from 6th
centuryA.D used for the construction of
temples, monasteries, illams, tharavads, palaces, bungalows and even some
agraharams & mosques.The interior is completely designed for the
21st century youth still priding about 19th century railway lines
situated inside.
19. KSEB Old Bungalow,T.B.Road.
Built in the year 1925 by the British
Government for housing the office for electricity supply for the
municipality. The best example of London model stone brick architecture
using the colours, blue and yellow. It is built like a small castle and stairs are not inside the
office,but fixed on outer wall on the left side. The roof and balcony
has a Kerala palace like influence.The land was donated by Sheik Rowther
one of the biggest business magnates at Palakkad @ that time.(Now also
they are having business.)
20. Palakkad District Public Library, Civil Lines Road, FortMaidan.
The newest, one of the biggest libraries
in the country is Palakkad District Public Library situated on
CivilLines near EastFort Road, FortMaidan. The main reason for starting a
library with all the state of the art technologically advanced
facilities was due to the constant requests & pressures Palakkad
District Library Committe had given upon the District Collector. For
that he alloted 30 cents of land, near District Panchayath Office near
Civil Station. During that time, CPI(M) was ruling the Kerala state.
N.N.Krishnadas, now Ex- Member Of Parliament allotted the sum of Rs.
1.25 crores for the library. Within three years, the building got
completed. Although it was during the time of V.S.Achuthanandan(CPIM)
rule the foundation stone was laid, (by A.K Balan, then the Minister For
Electricity & Scheduled Castes, Tribes Development)it was completed
by the Oomen Chandy(INC) government which is still ruling the state from 2011. On 29/06/2013, PDPL was inaugurated.
The exterior is entirely built on 17th century Dutch Architectural
style. The interior looks like a French cafe with a big hall in the
centre and two floors other than groundfloor.
Ground Floor consists of many tables & chairs for readers and for
librarian,other staffs etc.Large number of Malayalam books, magazines
are arranged in these shelves. There is another shelf containing a good
collection of Indian & Foreign classic movies suited for both kids
and adults who enjoy cinema. Also contains a restroom, an internet cafe
and staff rooms.
First Floor has English novels, autobiographical works, essays, poems etc.
Second floor consists of reference books in both English &
Malayalam languages. A conference hall, old photographs of MK Gandhi,his
philosophies, political activities and newspaper articles on his time
are displayed here. Bal Gangadhar Tilak, J.L Nehru, M.A Jinnah can also
be seen in the display.
There is a separate section for late great literature & political
personalities from Palakkad district like O.V.Vijayan, Mundur
Krishnankutty, P.Kunjiraman Nair, VKN, E.M.S. Namboothiripad,
Olappanmanna etc.
One common feature in all the three floors is that of the paintings
displayed by professional artists from Palakkad Chitrakala Trust.
On the whole library has a wonderful appeal. "A nostalgic blend of old
architecture in outside and new feel on browsing through the books and
pictures on the inside, the breeze and sunlight coming like angels
reminds us that the day of reading will always be enjoyable &
infotaining for more and more generations to come".
RIVERS IN PALAKKAD
A. Kalpathy River
Bharathapuzha (Nila)is the largest river in the state. (265kms) It is
the lifeline for the people from Palakkad,Thrissur & Malappuram
districts. There are only two great rivers in Kerala other than Nila.
Periyar & Pamba are the others. This river is the lifeline for the
people of Palakkad & Malappuram Districts. Some Indian examples are
Like Indus For All Indian Punjabis, Haryanvis, Himachalis, Sindhis &
Kashmiris, Sindhis & Punjabis of Pakisthan.
(Indus,Ganges,Narmada,Kaveri & Godavari are accepted as great rivers
of vegetation, wildlife, economy, literature, culture & civilization by all
Indians & abroad people.)Like Ganges For Uttarakhand, U.P,Bihar,
West Bengal & Bangladesh people. Kaveri For TamilNadu, Karnataka
& Kerala, Godavari For Andhra & Maharashtra, Brahmaputra For
NorthEastern States etc.
The City Of Palakkad should be extremely proud of the fact that it has
got three rivers and one man made water body on all four sides, creating
a 'Manhattan Island' of 31 sq.kms.(including some sub urban areas
excluding Olavakkode) still expanding for the people’s future.
Kalpathy,Nila when joined with this river ,Kannadi the third one.And on
the east Malampuzha canal seperates Chandranagar and other north eastern
neighbourhoods from the rest of the city.
Those places I am explaining in the coming pages.Now lets talk about Kalpathy.
Kalpathy is a tributary of Bharathapuzha/ Nila river.(265kms)
It begins a journey from Walayar hills, then it moves down in a
south-west direction travelling hundreds of miles .The malampuzha river
joins her near Malampuzha Dam in the north east suburbs before entering
Palakkad. Nila bears the name Kalpathy from here.This river joins
Kannadi river at Parli now a western suburban area.And again regains its
name Nila or Bharathapuzha by nourishing the paddy fields and soil and
finally reaches Arabian Sea forming a large backwater at Ponnani,
Malappuram District.
For some years the river has lost much of its significance due to the
water pollution, sand mining, so many check dams, growth of african weed
all these resulted a major fall in the water quantity and its
purity.The best time to watch is during the early mornings and evenings
everyday.If you want to watch the river rising, I recommend rainy season
when Malampuzha dam is opened. Birds,turtles,fishes,crabs,bushes,trees,
kavilpad hills,people bathing and fishing are some of the natural
things to enjoy.Kavilpad bungalow,British bridge, Kalpathy Heritage
Village are some of the man made things to enjoy.
B. Kannadi River
The Tamil word ‘Kannadi’ literally means ‘Glass’ or ‘Mirror’. Kannadi
river is one of the most beautiful rivers . It has got more water and
deeper than its northern competitor Kalpathy. Kannadi is the original
Bharathapuzha river.It is formed from the Anamalai Hills of Western
Ghats now in southern part of Coimbatore District, TamilNadu.
Name of the river changes place to place. In Chittur it is known as
Chitturpuzha or ‘Shokanashini’ meaning ‘Destroyer Of Sorrows’ in
Sanskrit.This term was coined by great poet, scholar & ‘Father Of
Modern Malayalam Language’, Tunjath Ramanujan Ezhuthachan. He spend most
of his lifetime in the banks of this river. When it comes to Palakkad
near Kannadi, it becomes the name.Both Kalpathy and Kannadi merges to
form one of the single greatest river eco-systems in the planet ie,
Bharathapuzha alias Nila River in Parali at west side. Malampuzha Canal
joins both these rivers on the other sides forming one large island of
Palakkad City.
Long ago boats were used by passengers and goods for exporting through
Ponnani port.After the coming of bridges and roads, changing of Cochin
port as one of the biggest in the world affected the river
transportation.Nowadays, there is no enough water in whole Bharathapuzha
Belt.Water Hyancinth, Illegal Sand Mining, Pollution, Construction Of
More & More Minor Dams are the reasons.
SHOPPING
Palakkad is the shopping capital of Kerala, some people say that it is
Thiruvanathapuram or Kochi. Those cities contain only two or three areas
dedicated to shopping. But look what my city has got: Gandhi Bazaar,
Market Road, Mettupalayam Street, T.B. Road, HPO Road, College Road
(upto moyan school) Court Road, Kalpathy, R.S. Road, Coimbatore Road,
Melamuri, Shornur Road, English Church Road, Chittur Road, Chandranagar
etc.The list goes on.
Although there are several streets to choose from, the most preffered
one is still Gandhi Bazaar. This bazaar is 1km long, stretches from
Sultanpetta Junction to Shakuntala Stores Junction (second row first)
consisting of street vendors, fast food centres, banks, ATMs, hotels,
jewellery shops, cinema theatres, ultra modern shopping malls, corporate
offices etc. One such recent big mall is Joby’s Mall. And also consists
of some old charms such as Vijaya Hall built in 1930s still used for
hosting book fairs and New Theatre built in 1936 is made using Dutch &Art Deco style.
Market Road is one of the oldest and longest roads devoted for trade and
commerce in the world. It stretches from Melamuri Junction on the west
to Shakunthala Junction on east covering a distance of 3kms.It was the
commercial centre of Palakkatussery and a major market place for buying
and selling of goods for people coming from near by villages. The only
market that can challenge Ponnani, Kochi, Vanniamkulam and Kozhikkode markets
since medieval times is still Market Road.
Centuries Old Shops @ Big Bazaar
The oldest market is Melamuri Market founded by the traders came from
TamilNadu known as ‘Moothans’ in 15th century.Palakkad Raja gave
permission to built Kannaki Temple at a place later known as
Moothanthara and a market in this road.Although there are other people
who do trade other than moothans in this area.They are the dominant.
Market Road was one of ‘Tippu Sultan’s Cannon Routes’.The roads he
developed for the movement of his arms, ammunitions, and cavalry was
through market road.There is a street called ‘Peerangi Theruvu’ meaning
cannon street in this road. The meat and fish market is known as ‘Dance
Market.’ It doesnot have anything to do with dancing.J.W.Dance Was The
Asst.Collector of Calicut and First Acting Chairman Of Palakkad from
1866. It was named after him. There are many fine old buildings with lot
of Asian and European styles of architecture.
ARTS, MUSIC,ENTERTAINMENT & CULTURE
Palakkad has long been a great cultural centre of South India since
ancient times. This city has been called ‘The Music Capital Of
Kerala.’Palakkad District has produced great and famous people in the
field of music, dance, literature and cinema more than any other place
in the country.
Though it is not possible to put all their names in the page, cause the
main purpose of this site is to promote lesser known attractions in the
city.So, kindly excuse me for that.Some of them are Chembai Vaidyanatha
Bhagavathar, (Great Musician)Palghat Mani Iyer, (Great Mridangam
Percussionist)Bombay Jayasree, (Famous Carnatic & Film Play Back
Singer) M.T.Vasudevan Nair, (Legendary Novelist,Great ScriptWriter) O.V.Vijayan, (Great Novelist,Cartoonist) Kunchan Nambiar,
(Father Of Ottan Thullal Dance Form) Thunchath Ezhuthachan, (Great
Poet,Author & Father Of Modern Malayalam)M.G.Ramachandran, (Famous
SuperStar Of Tamil Cinema During 1950's & 60's & Chief Minister
Of Tamilnadu State.) K.S.SethuMadhavan, (Legendary Malayalam Film
Director Of 1960s & 70's)M.S.Viswanathan, (Great Music Director In
Tamil Cinema) Mohan Sharma, Good Malayalam Actor) Vijay Menon, (Good Actor & Dubbing Artist)K.V. Anand, (Great Writer, Cinematographer & Director In Tamil) Mani Shornur, (Versatile Screenplay Writer) V.R. Gopalakrishnan, (Versatile Scriptwriter)
Oduvil UnniKrishnan, (Versatile Supporting Actor)Raghuvaran, (Versatile
Supporting Actor) K.P. Udayabhanu, (Versatile Singer) S.N. Swamy,(Great Brilliant Screenplay Writer) A.K.Lohitadas,(Great Script Writer & Director) Jayaram, (Very
Talented Actor) Ajith Kumar,(Very Talented Actor) E.N. Balakrishnan,(Very Talented Cinematographer) P.C. ShreeRam,(Great Cinematographer) Bharathan, (Legendary
Film Director) P.Vasu (Great Tamil Film Writer,Actor & Director) S.Balakrishnan, (Late Great Music Director In 1990s) Shaju,(Talented Film & TV Serial Actor) Ramesh Pisharody, (Talented Film Actor, Mimicry Artist) Lal Jose,
(Great Film Director)Anil Radakrishnan Menon, (Upcoming Talented Script
Writer-Director) Gautham Menon, (Very Talented ScriptWriter&
Director) Janaki Sabesh, (Very Beautiful Mother In Tamil Films)Sudha Chandran, (Very Beautiful Actress and Dancer)Revathi, (Very Beautiful & Talented Malayalam, Tamil Actress Of 1980s & 90s) Sunitha Venugopal Sivaramakrishnan, (Beautiful&Talented Malayalam
Actress Of Early 1990s. ) Sangeetha Balan, (Beautiful Actress In 90s & 2000s) Sangeetha Madhavan Nair(Very Talented& Beautiful Actress In 1990s) Vidya Balan, (Beautiful &Versatile Bollywood Actress
& National Award Winner) Anjali Menon, (Very Talented Writer, Director) Lakshmi Ramakrishnan, (Best TV Show Host, Actress) Trisha Krishnan, (Beautiful,Talented Actress &
Super Heroine Of Southern Indian Films)PriyaMani, (Beautiful,Versatile Tamil
Actress & National Award Winner)Pallavi Subhash Chandran alias
Pallavi Purohit, (Beautiful & Talented Actress In Hindi Serials) Shanthi Krishna(Very Beautiful & Talented Malayalam Actress Of 1980's & Early 1990's) Priya Raman, (Beautiful, Talented Actress, Style Icon Of 1990s) Adaah Sharma, (Beautiful Bollywood & Telugu Actress) Nithya Menon, (Very Beautiful & Talented Malayalam & Tamil Actress) Shruti Hariharan, (Beautiful & Very Talented Model, Dancer, Kannada
Actress) Samyuktha Menon (Beautiful & Talented Malayalam Actress) Aparna Balamurali, (National Award Winning Malayalam & Tamil Actress) Anumol, (Beautiful Malayalam Actress) Nanji Amma (National Award Winning Singer)
Palakkad Fine Arts Society, Palakkad District Library, Swathi Sangeetha Sabha, Swaralaya, Kathakali
Trust, Chitrakala Trust, Lions Club, Rotary Club are some of the best
well known organizations known for their promotion of literature, fine
arts,music,dance,culture etc to a global audience.
Movies plays an important role in the city life. The New Theatre now
known as Sree Devi Durga Theatre(1935)in G.B.Road is one of the oldest
and biggest cinemas in India,which is still running with profit. First
air conditioned cinema is Priyadarshini.(1973)Others are Priya,
Priyatama, Aroma, New Aroma, Ramu Cine House, Satya etc. All are showing
films in four languages. Highest no: of films are shown in Malayalam.
Tamil and English comes second. Hindi comes third.
There are more cinemas in other towns like Chittur, Ottapalam, Shornur,
Mannarkkad, Alathur in the district. Kerala Government has proposed a 50
lakh 'Film City Project'in Ottapalam.
Film shootings are held in many parts of the city and district of
Palakkad. Sopanam Studios near BEM High School Junction established in
2006 is one of the best dubbing & recording studios in India.
SOME FAMOUS & CLASSIC FILMS WHICH ARE SHOT IN PALAKKAD DISTRICT PARTLY OR FULLY ARE LISTED BELOW:
1. Tamil : Irumbu Kottai Murattu Singam, (2010)Sarvam, (2009)Anbe Sivam,
(2003) Thevar Magan, (1993)Malabar Police,(1998) Nala Damayanthi,
(2003) Amaidhi Padai,(1994) Iruvar, (1997) KanduKondein, KanduKondein, (2000) Enn Annan,
(1970)DaivaMagan, (1969) Aanandha Poonkaatre, (1999) Sandhiththa Velai, (1999) Sumaithaangi, (1964)
Aalayamani, (1964) Nenjam Marapathillai, (1963)Manmadha Leelai (1976)
etc..
2. Malayalam : Murapennu, (1965) Thommante Makkal, (1966) Kaala Chakram, (1973) Nirmaalyam, (1974) Neela Thamara, (1979) Chattakari, (1975) Alolam, (1982) Padayottam,(1982) Kazhumaram, (1982) Gaanam, (1982) Mangalam Nerunnu, (1984) No:20 Madras Mail,(1990) Jathakam, (1989) Mazhavil Kaavadi, (1989) Adharvam,(1989) Carnival,(1989) Vicharana,(1988) Aadhaaram, (1993) Mahayanam, (1989) Mrigaya, (1989) Thazhvaaram,
(1990) Pookaalam Varavaayi, (1991) Dasaratham,(1989) Gajakesariyogam, (1990) Meleparambil Aanveedu,
(1993) Devasuram, (1992) Valayam, (1992) Venkalam, (1991) Yodhdha, (1992) Maayamayooram, (1993) Chakoram, (1993) Valsalyam, (1993) Aaram Thampuran, (1997) Thooval Kottaram, (1996) Vietnam Colony, (1992) Bharatham, (1991) Keli, (1991) Dhanam,(1991) Ee Puzhayum Kadannu, (1996) PeruMazhakaalam, (2004) Kanmadam, (1998) Spadikam, (1995) Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha, (1989) Vadakkunokki Yanthram, (1989) Varavelppu, (1989) Vadhu
Doctaraanu, (1994) The Guard, (2001) Raavana Prabhu, (2001) Prajapathi, (2006) Pallavur
Devanarayanan, (1999) Karunyam, (1997)Kadhanayagan, (1997) Narasimham,
(2000) Bhagyavan, (1993) Desadanam, (1996) Saadharam, (1995) Vishnu Lokam, (1992) Varthamaana Kaalam, (1990) Apoorvam Chilar, (1990) Gamanam, (1994) ArabiKatha, (2008) Thoovanathumbikal, (1987) Paalangal, (1982) Nakakshathangal, (1986) Chilambu, (1986) Sarvakalasala, (1987)Sargam, (1992) Kandu Kandarinju, (1985)
Theerthadanam, (2001) Meesa Madhavan, (2002) Parinayam, (1994) Chinthavistayaya Shyamala, (1998) Megham, (1999)
Sukrutham, (1994) Mazhayethum Munpe, (1995) Arayannangalude Veedu, (1999) Veendum
Chila Veettukaryangal,(1999)Dasaratham, (1989) Bharatham, (1992)
Kamaladalam, (1991) Thaniyavarthanam, (1987) Ponmuttayidunna Tharavu,(1988)
SooryaPuthran,(1998) Pattabhishekam, (1999) Narendran Makan Jayakaanthan Vaka, (2002) Kilichundan Maampazham, (2003) Kasthurimaan, (2003) RunWay, (2004) Sadhanandhante Samayam, (2003) Mizhi Randilum, (2003)
Albuthadweepu, (2005) Manasinakkare, (2004) ChakkaraMuthu,(2006) Mulla,(2007) Traffic,(2009) Thirakatha,(2008) Puthiyamukham, (2010) Sufi Paranja Katha, (2010)Molly Aunty Rocks, (2012) Appothecary, (2014) Ennu Ninte Moidheen, (2015)Su..Su..Sudhi Valmeekam,(2014) Ajagajantharam (2021)
3. Hindi : Julie, (1977) Virasat (1997)
Palakkad Tamil which is used mainly by Iyers living for generations in
Palakkad is used in many Tamil & Malayalam films.Most famous tamil
film to use the slang perfectly is Kamal Hassan starrer movie 'Michael
Madana KamaRajan'.(1990)Story & Screenplay By Panchu Arunachalam,
Dialouges By Crazy Mohan & Directed By Singeetham Sreenivasa Rao.
Other films are Vietnam Veedu, Antha Ezhu Natkal, CBI Diary Kurippu,
Iyer The Great, Vietnam Colony, Nala Damayanthi, Malabar Police etc.(Please do kindly note that slangs used in comedy films are exaggerated to a certain extend to suit a character for humour. Palakkad Tamils used by Iyers are much better than these films done by non native Palakkadans.Not every Palakkad Iyer speak like Kamal or Urvashi in a musical way.)
Valluvanad slang is used very much used in many movies particularly
those written by Late Great Lohitadas, MT Vasudevan Nair, Renjith, Mani
Shornoor etc. Even legendary screenwriters like John Paul, Sreenivasan, Ragunath
Paleri, Late Great T.Damodaran, S.N. Swamy also uses this slang often.
Very rarely they use Palakkadan slang. Valluvanad slang is noted for its soft spoken Sanskritised version of Malayalam,while Palakkad slang is noted for her fast, energised Tamil influenced approach.Palakkadan Slang is used very
rarely although many movies are being shot here. Recently a hit movie
called 'Ordinary' used Palakkad Slang on veteran actor
BijuMenon. Ulsaha Comittee, (Jayaram & Shaju) Manoharam(Hareesh Peradi & Basil Joseph) are other films which used Palakkad Slang.(Please do kindly note that slangs used in comedy films are exaggerated to a certain extend to suit a character for humour. Palakkad Malayalam is one of the best slangs.You don't need to speak like Biju Menon (he is from Thrissur)with power or strain. Or with exaggerated version like Jayaram. (Although his father was from Palakkad, he was born and brought up at Perumbavoor. So he has limitations to speak our slang naturally. Native Palakkad tongues speak this slang with much ease.Educated Palakkadans speak standard Malayalam with Palakkad accent.) Shaju, Hareesh Peradi, Ramesh Peradi, Basil & Kalabhavan Nawas are superb in performing Palakkad Slang. Checkout youtube videos for perfect Palakkad Malayalam done by natives.
This city once was great educational centre. But today as more &
more colleges in the neighbouring states of TamilNadu and Karnataka are
coming with professional courses with low cost, students are going there
to study. But for classes L.K.G to Plus Two and traditional courses in
colleges,Palakkad has got a lot of institutions in its credit. In 2015 IIT-PALAKKAD started functioning at temporary Ahalia campus.
Our district boasts of the best vocational training courses and centres
in India. They are Kerala Technical Institute, IETE, NIIT, NIFE,
Chithira Institute Of Medical Technology, Ace College, CADD Centre,
Narolis, Atom Multimedia, MHR Institutions, Arena Multimedia, Mundur
ITC, St.Mary's ITC, Vadakkanchery, Technical Schools in Ottapalam,
Malampuzha etc. are some of the leading institutions for vocational
training.
Basel Evangelical Mission High School, Government Victoria College,
St.Sebastin School, St.Raphael School, Government Moyan Girls School,
Bharath Matha School, Palghat Lions School, Chembai Government Music
College,Mercy College, Jayamatha College, Chinmaya College, NSS
Engineering College,Co-Operative College Of Olavakkode are one of the
few greatest and oldest among them.
HOW TO REACH THERE
How To Reach Through Land: Palakkad Junction Railway station, 4kms from
Sultanpet.Or through National Highway 47, 213, Shornoor Road, Chittur
Road, Pollachi Road.
Railway Enquiry Ph: 0491 – 2255231.
How To Reach Through Sea: Ponnani Port is 68 kms & Cochin Port is 130kms from Palakkad.
How To Reach Through Air: Coimbatore Airport is nearest, 55kms.(Ph:0422- 2574623)
Best Time To Visit: Any time you can plan to come.Best time is November- Febrauary.
Special Concession For School Excursions.
For Bookings Contact Mr.Gouri Sankar.K [Tour Guide & Manager]
0491-2583282, +919745376871.
sankarkg_pgt@hotmail.com
House No.17/81,ElappullyVillage, Elappully South P.O. Palakkad - 678622.
Press Madom - H.Q. Of Palakkad Walks
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