Kunnamkulam
Kunnamkulam | |
|---|---|
 Arieal view of Kunnamkulam old bus stand | |
  Kunnamkulam Location in Kerala, India  Kunnamkulam Kunnamkulam (India) | |
| Coordinates: 10°39′N 76°05′E / 10.65°N 76.08°E | |
| Country |  India |
| State | Kerala |
| District | Thrissur |
| Taluk | Kunnamkulam |
| Government | |
| • Type | Municipality |
| • Body | Kunnamkulam Municipality |
| • M.L.A | A. C. Moideen (CPI(M)) |
| Area | |
• Total | 34.18 km2 (13.20 sq mi) |
| Elevation | 57 m (187 ft) |
| Population (2011) | |
• Total | 54,071 |
| • Density | 1,600/km2 (4,100/sq mi) |
| Languages | |
| • Official | Malayalam, English |
| Time zone | UTC+5:30 (IST) |
| PIN | |
| Telephone code | 04885 |
| Vehicle registration | KL-46, KL-48 |
| State Assembly Constituency | Kunnamkulam |
| Lok Sabha Constituency | Alathur |
| Website | thrissur |
Kunnamkulam is a historic municipal town located in the Thrissur District of Kerala, India. Renowned for its deep-rooted cultural heritage, vibrant printing industry, and religious diversity, the town has evolved into a significant commercial and educational hub in central Kerala. Its strategic location and connectivity make it an important economic and cultural node in central Kerala.
History
[edit]Kunnamkulam has a rich historical legacy that dates back to the Paleolithic age. Archaeological evidence, including findings from the Kakkad Cave and Chowannur Cave, supports this claim. The region was historically part of Mahodaya Pattanam under Chera dynasty, and was known as Kunnamkulangare during earlier periods. The town has been a confluence of various cultures and religions[1][2], with early settlements of Jews[3], Christians, and Muslims, particularly in nearby regions like Cranganore (modern-day Kodungallur).
Early History and Dynastic Influence
[edit]The area surrounding Kunnamkulam, including the suburbs of Manakulam, Cheralayam, and Kakkad, served as the seats of the Nambidis of Manakulam, Ayinikur, and Kakkad Karanavappad, respectively. These rulers were collectively referred to as the Thalappilli Rajas[4], belonging to three branches of the same dynasty. Their influence shaped the socio-political landscape of the region for centuries.
Medieval Period and Tippu Sultan's Invasion
[edit]In 1789, during the invasion of Tippu Sultan , Christian families residing in Chattukulangare migrated to Kunnamkulam. They were invited by the Thalappilli Rajas, who provided them with residences and places of worship. These families settled on both sides of the main street, fostering a thriving community engaged in trade and commerce. This migration not only contributed to the town's economic growth but also strengthened its cultural diversity. According to historian C. Achutha Menon, Kunnamkulam became "the chief center of Orthodox Christians in the State," with several ancient churches established in the town and its surroundings.[1]
Colonial Era
[edit]During the colonial period, Kunnamkulam emerged as a significant trading center under the Portuguese and later the British. The town gained prominence for its traditional arts and crafts, particularly Kathakali and Kerala mural painting, which flourished during this time. These art forms continue to be integral to the town's cultural identity. During British colonial rule, Kunnamkulam emerged as a prominent Christian-majority town, gaining recognition for its organized urban layout and thriving printing industry.
Administrative Significance
[edit]Kunnamkulam served as the headquarters of the Talappilly Taluk until 1860 AD, underscoring its administrative importance in the region. The town's strategic location and historical significance made it a hub for governance, trade, and culture.
Etymology
[edit]
The name Kunnamkulam is derived from the Malayalam language, reflecting the town's geographical and cultural characteristics. It is a compound word made up of two parts:
- "Kunnu" (കുന്ന്): Meaning "hill" or "elevated land."
- "Kulam" (കുളം): Meaning "pond" or "waterbody."[5]
Thus, Kunnamkulam translates to "a pond at the foot of a hill" or "a waterbody near elevated land." The name likely refers to the natural features of the region, particularly the presence of small hillocks and waterbodies like ponds or streams.[6] Historical records suggest that the name has been in use for centuries, reflecting the town's identity as a settlement surrounded by fertile land and abundant water resources.
A cyber campaign was started that resulted in the changing of the often-misspelt name കുന്ദംകുളം (kundamkulam), to കുന്നംകുളം (kunnamkulam).
Apparently the wrong spelling കുന്ദംകുളം (Kundamkulam) was being used for the city name on the buses, sign boards, publications, etc,. This issue was brought into the social media, where people unanimously opined to correct the spelling to കുന്നംകുളം (Kunnamkulam). This online debate further developed into a great discussion amongst the public and in all the other medias. The issue finally came in front of the Municipal Council meeting which laid down the rule to not use the wrong spelling കുന്ദംകുളം for കുന്നംകുളം anywhere.[7]
Geography
[edit]Geographically, Kunnamkulam lies at approximately at 10°39′N 76°05′E / 10.65°N 76.08°E.[8] , encompassing an area of 34.18 square kilometers. The town is strategically located about 24 kilometers north of Thrissur city and approximately 8 kilometers from the renowned pilgrimage center of Guruvayur. Kunnamkulam is a significant node in Kerala's road network, with State Highway 69 (SH 69) traversing through the town. Additionally, State Highway 39 (SH 39) intersects with SH 69 near Perumpilavu, just south of Kunnamkulam.
The topography of Kunnamkulam is characterized by gently undulating terrain with an average elevation of around 16 meters above sea level[9]. The landscape features a mix of small hillocks and ponds, which is reflected in the town's name—'Kunnam' meaning hill and 'Kulam' meaning pond in Malayalam. Notable hills in the region include Adupputty, Kizhoor, and Kakkad, while prominent ponds such as Enjhankulam, Ayyamkulam, and Madhurakulam are situated within the town's vicinity.
The surrounding area within a 2-mile radius comprises approximately 40% cropland, 29% forested areas, and 24% shrubland, indicating a predominantly agrarian landscape interspersed with natural vegetation. This diverse land use contributes to the town's ecological richness and supports its agricultural activities.[10]
Climate
[edit]In terms of climate, Kunnamkulam experiences a tropical savanna climate (Köppen classification), characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The hot season extends from February to May, with April being the warmest month, averaging highs of 33.3°C (92°F) and lows of 26.7°C (80°F). The cooler season spans from June to September, with July being the coolest month, featuring average highs of 28.9°C (84°F) and lows of 24.4°C (76°F). The town receives substantial rainfall during the monsoon months, contributing to its lush greenery and agricultural productivity.[10][11]
Demographics
[edit]As of 2011 Census, Kunnamkulam had a population of 54,071 with 25,392 males and 28,679 females. The municipality caters 13,156 households with an area of 34.18 km2 (13.20 sq mi). 9.3% of the population was under 6 years of age. Kunnamkulam had an average literacy of 96.8% higher than the state average of 94%; male literacy was 97.7% and female literacy was 96%.[12]
Government
[edit]The Kunnamkulam Municipality was formed as an 4th grade Municipality in the year 1948. The Municipality had an area of 6.96 km2 (2.69 sq mi) with 16 electoral wards. In 2000, it was further upgraded to a Grade-II Municipality by merging adjoining panchayats of Arthat (full) and panchayats of Porkulam and Chowwannur (parts). The original area of the municipality was 7 km2 which is now increased to 34.18 km2 (13.20 sq mi). The municipality extended its area in 2001 and now has 31 wards. Kunnamkulam assembly constituency is part of Alathur (Lok Sabha Constituency). Earlier, it was part of the Ottapalam Constituency.[13]
Famous Personalities
[edit]C P John- Indian Politician
V K Sreeraman- Indian Actor
Culture
[edit]
Kadavallur, Chowannur and Arthat, the nearby places of Kunnamkulam had a rich cultural background. Kadavallur is well known throughout this coast as being the place where Nambudiris of the Thrissur and Tirunavaya Yogams compete for superiority in Vedic proficiency. In Chowannur, there was a Sabha Madom, an endowed college where Sanskrit education was given. Arthat was the chief center of Orthodox Christians. The Arthat St. Mary's Cathedral Church (Arthat Valliyapally) is the main church in the town. All these contributed a cultural rising up in the area which later on helped the development of the publishing industry. These published books were sold during Guruvayur Ekadasi. When the temple was open to all Hindus and a good amount of trade taken place at that time.[14]
Line Houses
[edit]A particular residential replica "line houses" (angadi pura (veeducal)), is seen in Kunnamkulam area. The streets of these houses are exceedingly narrow. The "Line Houses" are built in 3–5 cents of land on both sides of the street. The front room of the house functions as a shop while the rear room was used for residential purposes. There used to be rear yards for every so called "Angadi pura" (town house) which was used for processing of their agricultural products.[15][14][16]
Kunnamkulam is famous for its religious harmony as Hindus, Christians and Muslims live here. The religious tolerance of Kunnamkulam people can be seen from the “Ambala Palli’(located at south Bazar) which is temple converted to a church where in, the temple character can be seen in the church entrance.
Archaeology
[edit]- Roman coins of Eyyal: Archaeologists have unearthed a collection of old Roman coins at Eyyal. These coins date from 123 BC to 117 AD. They are currently exhibited in the Archeological Museum of Thrissur.[17]
See also
[edit]- Places of worship in Kunnamkulam
- Kaikulangara Rama Variar
- Kanippayyur Shankaran Namboodiripad
- Pazhanji
- Pengamuck
- Pazhanji Church
- West Mangad
References
[edit]- ^ a b Menon, C. Achutha (1911). Cochin State Manual. Ernakulam: Government Press.
- ^ Kumar, P. Santhosh (2018). "Historical Perspectives of Thrissur District". Journal of Kerala Studies. 45 (2): 112–130.
- ^ "Monuments | Archelogical survey of India :: Thrissur Circle". www.asithrissurcircle.in. Retrieved 7 January 2020.
- ^ "THE PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS OF PAPER-BASED INDUSTRY IN KUNNAMKULAM(A Local Level Study)" (PDF). CENTRE FOR DEVELOPMENT STUDIES. 1 January 2000. Archived (PDF) from the original on 29 March 2017. Retrieved 7 January 2020.
- ^ Narayanan Nair, K. (1985). Place Names of Kerala. Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala University Press.
- ^ "Etymology of Place Names in Kerala". Kerala Tourism. Retrieved 5 October 2023.
- ^ "Town of Duplicates Seeks Its Original Name". News18. 15 June 2021. Retrieved 10 October 2023.
- ^ Falling Rain Genomics, Inc - Kunnamkulam
- ^ "Topographic Map of Kunnamkulam". Topographic Maps. Retrieved 10 October 2023.
- ^ a b "Average Winter Weather in Kunnamkulam, Kerala, India". WeatherSpark. Retrieved 10 October 2023.
- ^ "Geological Features of Kunnamkulam". Mindat.org. 2023. Retrieved 10 October 2023.
- ^ "Part B" (PDF). Census India. Wayback Machine. Archived from the original (PDF) on 31 January 2018. Retrieved 31 January 2018.
- ^ "Assembly Constituencies - Corresponding Districts and Parliamentary Constituencies" (PDF). Kerala. Election Commission of India. Archived from the original (PDF) on 4 March 2009. Retrieved 18 October 2008.
- ^ a b "The problems and prospects of paper-based industry in Kunnamkulam". Rajeev G. Retrieved 4 December 2010.
- ^ "National Urban Observatory". Town & country planning organization. Retrieved 4 December 2010.
- ^ "Kunnamkulam PinCode". citypincode.in. Retrieved 19 May 2014.
- ^ "Keralathile Sthalanama Charithram" of Sri. V. V. Valath, and "Makothai Pattanam" written by Sri V. T. Induchoodan, in the Mathrubhumi Annual, 1970.
