SUMMARY OF ANCIENT HISTORY OF
SANKARAPURI THEKKEDATHU THEKKETHUNDIYIL KUDUMBAYOGAM
KUZHIKALA
As is widely known, it was in Kerala, situated at the south western corner of the Indian sub-continent, the message of Jesus Christ first reached the sub-continent. That was in 52 AD through St. Thomas, one of the 12 disciples of Jesus Christ. The seed of that good news fruition tremendously through the years and had won millions of souls for eternity. The good news of the gospel that reached Kerala twenty centuries ago spread to other parts of India as well and is now making every effort to win the souls that perish throughout India.
Notwithstanding, here is just a look on the historical background of Christianity in Kerala right from it reached the land in 52 AD and the formation of Sanakarapuri Thekkedathu Thekkethuniduil Kudumayogam.
The land of Kerala was not only famous for its natural scenery and beauty, but was also in the forefront in social and religious spheres even before Christian era. The ancient inhabitants of Kerala were known as “Nigri to Proto Australoids”. When the Dravidians became prominent people in South India, the original inhabitants of Kerala fled to mountains and hill tops and settled in jungles. They are currently known as Tribals of Kerala.
With the arrivals of Dravidians who were socially and economically elite, there was a rapid progress and prosperity throughout Kerala. They had a lifestyle of giving importance to religious activities.
The Aryans who had come to North India about 4000 BC, slowly moved down towards South India and by 400 BC they came and settled in Kerala. With the arrival of Aryan Brahmins, the entire area from Kasserkode to Kanyakumari became under their influence and control. During this period of Brahmin prominence other religions like Buddhism and Jainism also reached Kerala. By 300 BC the Jewish religion also reached Kerala, who had made a strong impact on the people over here with their belief in only one living God.
In ancient times South India were ruled by 3 prominent Kingdoms or Dynasties – Chera, Chola and Pandiya. During the reign of Chola Dynasty, Kerala became very famous in different fields. However, Brahmins had the ultimate authority on religious affairs and even over the Rulers. As a result, Hindu temples and associated facilities were widespread throughout the land. The religious rites or “karmangals” became deep rooted among the people.
Kodumgallore was the Royal Capital of Chera Kings and was also the major port in those days. As a result a large community of Brahmins lived in and around Kodumgallore.
Much before Christian era, Kerala was well known abroad especially in Rome, Greece, Arabian countries, Egypt, Syria, Babylon, Palestine, China, etc. and had commercial dealings with those countries. The black pepper, ginger, cardamom, gloves, sandalwood, ivory, pearls and diamonds were well known and sought after items among the foreigners. The traders of these items were mainly Jews and Arabs from the Middle East. As such, the Jews were well aware of the civilization and the people Kerala.
It was under this socio-religious background Christianity came to Kerala in the first century itself. We can conclude that it was God’s will and divine providence that the good news of the Saviour from Palestine reached Kerala. It was St. Thomas who answered to the question: Who will go to the far away Indian sub-continent with the good news of the Saviour Jesus Christ?
St. Thomas at Kodumgallore
St. Thomas, known as the Apostle of the East, was one of the 12 disciples of Jesus Christ. Though initially St. Thomas was a bit doubtful about the resurrection of Jesus Christ, when he was encountered by the resurrected Christ, his submission was total by saying “My Lord and my God”. He was enthralled by the Great Commission: “All authority in heaven and earth has been given to Me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations; baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit; and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And, surely I am with you always to the very end of the age.”
The Great Commission of the risen Lord ignited St. Thomas to undertake the perilous and hazardous journey to the far away countries, and thus he reached Kodumgallore in 52 AD and laid the foundation of Christianity in India. It was indeed a Divine will and a blessing to all of us. It is believed that St. Thomas travelled along with foreign merchants by sea and arrived at Malliakara Port, near Kodumgallore in 52 AD. The people of Kodumgallore were marvelled to see the divine presence and brightness in this stranger and were received by them with reverence. The dress code appearance, very similar to Hindu holy men coupled with the divine enlightenment in his face, attracted the elite Brahmin pandits. They were very eager to know more about him and the purpose of his arrival in this foreign land. He then explained to them in detail about the love of the living triune God, redemption of human sin by the blood of His Son Jesus Christ, and the power of the Holy Spirit. The teachings of Jesus Christ and the good news of gospel made a great impact on the elite and powerful Brahmin community. And through the work of St. Thomas, many of these Brahmin families in and around Kodumgallore accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour. They were also baptized and became Christians.
St. Thomas at Palayoor
After a few years work at Kodumgallore, St. Thomas reached Palayoor, which was then a major city in the Malabar area. It was also a port and a business centre and was densely populated. Apart from Brahmins other Hindu sects, the business community of Jews also lived there. As such, this city was also filled with places of worship of all these people.
While at Palayoor, the Brahmins after bathing in the temple pool took water in their hands and threw upwards chanting mantras. Seeing this, St. Thomas asked them why did they do that. They replied that it was a ritual for the peace of the souls of their departed predecessors. To that St.Thomas told them that since the water they threw upwards instantly comes back means it was not accepted by their gods.
The Brahmins then became curious about what St. Thomas told them. He then explained to them about the living Almighty God and his Son Jesus Christ. They challenged him that if the God he spoke about was Almighty and True living God, to throw some water from the same temple pool; and if the water remained above without instantly falling down, they would believe in his God. St. Thomas wisely used the occasion; he took some water from the same temple pool and prayerfully threw it upwards. It miraculously remained in the atmosphere like pearls and then disappeared. Not only that, the place from where the water was drawn, became a pit in the pool. When the Brahmins saw these miracles, they became speechless and wonderstruck. They also became fearful and wearisome. St. Thomas then comforted them and explained to them that what had happened was not of his ability; but by the Almighty God, whom he believed and worshipped. He explained to them in detail about the teachings of Jesus Christ and the salvation freely available to all mankind whoever believes in Him.
This event turned out to be a great occasion. Of the Brahmins assembled there, 32 families or Illums repented and accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour; and were baptized and became Christians. Of these 32 families, 4 families – Kalli, Kalikavu, Shankarapuri and Pakalomattom were very prominent. A person each from Shankarapuri and Pakalomattom families was ordained with the title of “Arcadiyon” (Priesthood). Further, a Cross was also placed on the front side of the Shiva Temple there, which was then converted into a Christian place of worship.
Missions of St. Thomas
St. Thomas travelled from Palayoor to the south end of Kerala. During his journey he spread the message of Jesus and the eternal life available to all those who believe in Him. As a result, many Brahmins and people from other upper class sect of Hindus had believed in Jesus Christ and were baptized into Christianity. For the worship of such converted Christians, he had also established churches at Kondumgallore, Palayoor, Paravoor, Kokomangalam, Niranam, Chayal (Nilackal), Karakkenikollam (Kollam), and Thiruvamkodu (Arapplly). Thus in the first century itself many people throughout Kerala became believers and became Christians, which was a blessing and morale boosting to the descendants of them.
After the mission work in Kerala, St. Thomas travelled to Chola and Pandiya Kingdoms and conveyed the message of salvation through Jesus Christ. It is believed that ultimately he travelled up to China. Then returned to south India treading the places where he earlier visited, enquired and encouraged those who had accepted Jesus and became Christians. However, after his return to South India, the Brahmins who had become furious about the conversions of their people to Christianity, pierced him to death at the place, which is currently known as St. Thomas Mount. His body was buried at Mylapore. The mortal remains were also taken to the Headquarters of Eastern Church at “Urha” and buried there, which was on 3rd July. To commemorate this, every year 3rd July is celebrated as St. Thomas day
Palayoor to Kalikavu
As mentioned earlier, the four prominent Brahmin families - Kalli, Kalikavu, Shankarapuri and Pakalomattom constructed places of Christian worship adjacent to their Illums. Once they became Christians, the others associated with them also accepted Jesus Christ and became Christians. However, there was lack of facilities for Bible study. Also they had to face the opposition from other Brahmins who did not accept Jesus Christ as their Saviour. As a result some of them deserted the Christian faith and went back to their old way of life. Consequently, the firm believers of these 4 families left Palayoor and cursed that place. There is a story that this place became “Shapakkadu” synchronising with present day “Chavakadu”. The four families that departed from Palayoor travelled south wards and came over to Ankamali, Kadumthuruthi and later on to Ettumanoor. They approached the authorities at Ettumanoor for permission to settle down there. They were not permitted, but allowed them to stay at the northern side of Kalikavu Temple, which was then believed to be a devil possessed area, and not suitable for human habitation. Nevertheless, the forefathers of these four Brahmin families, who were very firm in their Christian faith, settled down there, built houses and lived there fearlessly and peacefully. They not only worshipped our Lord Jesus Christ there, but also witnessed Him to others.
Four Illums (Families) at Kalikavu
The four families who settled at Kalikavu with their ardent faith in Christianity became very blessed day by day, contrary to the expectations of those who oppressed them. They grew up like a tree planted by the river side, without withering its leaf, but brings fruits in all seasons. This was quite unexpected and unthinkable to other people there. With their new way of life, based on their faith in Jesus, disciplined life, humble behaviour, truthful and honest way of living, they became an example to others. It was indeed a great thing that the people of these four families could be living witness to others. The places where these four families had settled down are still known as Shankarapuri Purayidam, Pakalomattom Purayidam, Kavumckal Purayidam, and Kaleeckal Purayidam.
In those days there was no cemetery for the Christians at Kalikavu. Therefore, the dead bodies of them were buried on their own lands. Towards the eastern side of the Chapel there are now five very old tombs, and it is believed that those were the prominent members of the four families. But with the establishment of Christian church at Kuravilangadu, our forefathers moved over from Kalikavu and settled at Kuravilangadu. The four Brahmin families who had come to Kalikavu by the later part of second century lived there for a century. By then, their descendants and associates, coupled with those who became Christians through their witness, had become a very large community.
At Kuravilangadu
From the old records available, it is learnt that the Kuravilangadu church was established in 327 AD. Associated with this church there is hearsay. The children of the Christian families were minding their sheep over there. One day when those children after their work became very tired and resting with hunger and thirsty, when a beautiful middle aged lady appeared. Seeing the condition of the children, she took some stones and turned them to bread and gave to the children. She also shown a stream there and asked to drink water from that stream and then the leady disappeared. The children told the incident to their parents back at home. The next day the parents of the children came there to see the stream, when then the lady appeared again and asked them to build a church there. Accordingly, a church was built over there in the name of St. Mariam. That was the olden version of the current Marta Mariam Church at Kuravilangadu, which was built after the arrival of the Portuguese. After the church was built at Kuravilangadu by 327 AD, the descendants of the four Brahmin families together with a family from Kadapur branch, came over and settled near the Kuravilangadu church. Of them, Kalli and Pakalomattom settled at the northern side, while Shankarapuri and Kalikavu on the southern side. Thus, later on, Pakalomattom became known as “Vadakkedom” and Shankarapuri as “Thekkedam”.
From Kuravilangadu to Edathua
With the passage of time there was enormous increase in the population of those four families, who were baptized by St. Thomas at Palayoor and who had come down and settled at Kuravilangadu. As such, these families started to disperse to several locations. The great commission of “go the ends of the earth and proclaim the good news” also prompted them to be Christian witnesses at other places.
Accordingly, the people of Shankarapuri Thekkedom dispersed to several locations, and of them, one branch came down to Edathua about four centuries back. They had settled at the northern side of Pumpa River and were known as Shankarapuri Thekkedam. The original place of this family was the northern side of the current Anaprampal Mar Thomas Church. They lived a very devoted Christian life, with their firm faith, attending prayers, and worshipping the Lord in truth and spirit. As there was no Christian Church at Edathua then, they travelled and attended the Church at Niranam, which was one of the churches established by St. Thomas.
In course of time, the population of Shankarapuri Thekkedom family increased and dispersed into several branches – Vettuthottumckal, Maliyil, Maliackel, Kandathiparampil, Peedikayil and Puthenparampil. These families were blessed by God spiritually, socially and economically. There were several people who were holding leadership roles both in spiritual and social spheres. Vadekkekalam family is a branch of Kandathiparampil family, who were settled at Alapuzha. Pothen Joseph, a prominent businessman who was honoured with “Chevalier” position was from this family. Similarly, Puthenparampil Thommachen, who was known as “Kerala Assissi” was from Puthenparampil Branch. He was born in 1836 and lived for 72 years as a famous witness for Christ. Following the order of St. Francis, he helped and took care of the destitute. He lived a very holy life with prayers and worships. It is a matter of great encouragement for us to know that he was from our family itself. The Catholic Church has initiated actions to declare him as “Saint” and let us pray for it.
Maliyil Branch
Maliyil family is a branch of Shankarapuri Thekkedom, who had come from Kuravilangadu and settled at Edathua. By the side of the public road of Thiruvalla-Edathua, Anaprampal Mar Thoma Church is situated. There is a concrete bridge that connects the sides of a branch of Pumpa River. The first house after the bridge is the Maliyil family. Iduculla, the founder father of Kuzhikala Thekkethundiyil Kudumbham was from this family.
Kuzhikala Thekkethundiyil Family
Kuzhikala is about 5 kilometres south of Kozhencherry, situated on both sides of Kozhencherry-Panthalam public road. With paddy fields, mingled with small streams and hills, Kuzhikala was then very fertile and suitable for agriculture. In addition, the nearby Kozhencherry Market, was then very famous for agriculture products with boating facilities through Pumpa River. That might have been the reasons which attracted our founder father Iducualla, whose main occupation was agriculture to settle down at Kuzhikala. Iduculla had bought the “Thekkethundi Purayidam” and settled there. As such, this family became known as Thekkethundiyil.
Iduculla was blessed with three daughters, and three sons – Tharian, Iype and Iduculla, who were also engaged in agriculture along with their father. In course of time, the daughters were married off and the three sons became three families at Kuzhikala.
In those days there was no Christian Church at Kuzhikala. Therefore, Iduculla and his family were attending the church at Omalloor, about eight kilometres away. Later on, church was established at Elanthoor and then at Kuzhikala.
In course of time, with the increase in the family members, the families started dispersing to other locations, and they are now known in different names, such as: Thekkethundiyil, Challirickal, Moolekonil, Kuzhiparampil, Vazhavilayil, Ayanthiyil, Mammachenkalayil, Panachakunnel, Kollanparampil, Paruthikuzha, Palathumpattu, Nellikattil, Muthangaparampil, Panachakunnel Malabar, Thekkethundiyil Malabar, Challirickal Malabar, and Thekkethundiyil. Karbar, etc.
Malabar Branch
With the increase in the family members and with the annexation of Malabar into Kerala; several families from Central Travencore went and settled at Malabar area. There are families from Thekkethundiyil, Panachakunnel, Challirickal, who are settled at Malabar and a few at Karbar in Karnataka. Considering their difficulties to attend the family meetings at Kuzhikala, a Malabar branch of Shankarapuri Thekkedathu Thekkethundiyil Kundumbham was inaugurated at the Annual meeting held at Chunkathara in 2010. There are currently more than 35 families associated with this branch.
As is widely known, it was in Kerala, situated at the south western corner of the Indian sub-continent, the message of Jesus Christ first reached the sub-continent. That was in 52 AD through St. Thomas, one of the 12 disciples of Jesus Christ. The seed of that good news fruition tremendously through the years and had won millions of souls for eternity. The good news of the gospel that reached Kerala twenty centuries ago spread to other parts of India as well and is now making every effort to win the souls that perish throughout India.
Notwithstanding, here is just a look on the historical background of Christianity in Kerala right from it reached the land in 52 AD and the formation of Sanakarapuri Thekkedathu Thekkethuniduil Kudumayogam.
The land of Kerala was not only famous for its natural scenery and beauty, but was also in the forefront in social and religious spheres even before Christian era. The ancient inhabitants of Kerala were known as “Nigri to Proto Australoids”. When the Dravidians became prominent people in South India, the original inhabitants of Kerala fled to mountains and hill tops and settled in jungles. They are currently known as Tribals of Kerala.
With the arrivals of Dravidians who were socially and economically elite, there was a rapid progress and prosperity throughout Kerala. They had a lifestyle of giving importance to religious activities.
The Aryans who had come to North India about 4000 BC, slowly moved down towards South India and by 400 BC they came and settled in Kerala. With the arrival of Aryan Brahmins, the entire area from Kasserkode to Kanyakumari became under their influence and control. During this period of Brahmin prominence other religions like Buddhism and Jainism also reached Kerala. By 300 BC the Jewish religion also reached Kerala, who had made a strong impact on the people over here with their belief in only one living God.
In ancient times South India were ruled by 3 prominent Kingdoms or Dynasties – Chera, Chola and Pandiya. During the reign of Chola Dynasty, Kerala became very famous in different fields. However, Brahmins had the ultimate authority on religious affairs and even over the Rulers. As a result, Hindu temples and associated facilities were widespread throughout the land. The religious rites or “karmangals” became deep rooted among the people.
Kodumgallore was the Royal Capital of Chera Kings and was also the major port in those days. As a result a large community of Brahmins lived in and around Kodumgallore.
Much before Christian era, Kerala was well known abroad especially in Rome, Greece, Arabian countries, Egypt, Syria, Babylon, Palestine, China, etc. and had commercial dealings with those countries. The black pepper, ginger, cardamom, gloves, sandalwood, ivory, pearls and diamonds were well known and sought after items among the foreigners. The traders of these items were mainly Jews and Arabs from the Middle East. As such, the Jews were well aware of the civilization and the people Kerala.
It was under this socio-religious background Christianity came to Kerala in the first century itself. We can conclude that it was God’s will and divine providence that the good news of the Saviour from Palestine reached Kerala. It was St. Thomas who answered to the question: Who will go to the far away Indian sub-continent with the good news of the Saviour Jesus Christ?
St. Thomas at Kodumgallore
St. Thomas, known as the Apostle of the East, was one of the 12 disciples of Jesus Christ. Though initially St. Thomas was a bit doubtful about the resurrection of Jesus Christ, when he was encountered by the resurrected Christ, his submission was total by saying “My Lord and my God”. He was enthralled by the Great Commission: “All authority in heaven and earth has been given to Me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations; baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit; and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And, surely I am with you always to the very end of the age.”
The Great Commission of the risen Lord ignited St. Thomas to undertake the perilous and hazardous journey to the far away countries, and thus he reached Kodumgallore in 52 AD and laid the foundation of Christianity in India. It was indeed a Divine will and a blessing to all of us. It is believed that St. Thomas travelled along with foreign merchants by sea and arrived at Malliakara Port, near Kodumgallore in 52 AD. The people of Kodumgallore were marvelled to see the divine presence and brightness in this stranger and were received by them with reverence. The dress code appearance, very similar to Hindu holy men coupled with the divine enlightenment in his face, attracted the elite Brahmin pandits. They were very eager to know more about him and the purpose of his arrival in this foreign land. He then explained to them in detail about the love of the living triune God, redemption of human sin by the blood of His Son Jesus Christ, and the power of the Holy Spirit. The teachings of Jesus Christ and the good news of gospel made a great impact on the elite and powerful Brahmin community. And through the work of St. Thomas, many of these Brahmin families in and around Kodumgallore accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour. They were also baptized and became Christians.
St. Thomas at Palayoor
After a few years work at Kodumgallore, St. Thomas reached Palayoor, which was then a major city in the Malabar area. It was also a port and a business centre and was densely populated. Apart from Brahmins other Hindu sects, the business community of Jews also lived there. As such, this city was also filled with places of worship of all these people.
While at Palayoor, the Brahmins after bathing in the temple pool took water in their hands and threw upwards chanting mantras. Seeing this, St. Thomas asked them why did they do that. They replied that it was a ritual for the peace of the souls of their departed predecessors. To that St.Thomas told them that since the water they threw upwards instantly comes back means it was not accepted by their gods.
The Brahmins then became curious about what St. Thomas told them. He then explained to them about the living Almighty God and his Son Jesus Christ. They challenged him that if the God he spoke about was Almighty and True living God, to throw some water from the same temple pool; and if the water remained above without instantly falling down, they would believe in his God. St. Thomas wisely used the occasion; he took some water from the same temple pool and prayerfully threw it upwards. It miraculously remained in the atmosphere like pearls and then disappeared. Not only that, the place from where the water was drawn, became a pit in the pool. When the Brahmins saw these miracles, they became speechless and wonderstruck. They also became fearful and wearisome. St. Thomas then comforted them and explained to them that what had happened was not of his ability; but by the Almighty God, whom he believed and worshipped. He explained to them in detail about the teachings of Jesus Christ and the salvation freely available to all mankind whoever believes in Him.
This event turned out to be a great occasion. Of the Brahmins assembled there, 32 families or Illums repented and accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour; and were baptized and became Christians. Of these 32 families, 4 families – Kalli, Kalikavu, Shankarapuri and Pakalomattom were very prominent. A person each from Shankarapuri and Pakalomattom families was ordained with the title of “Arcadiyon” (Priesthood). Further, a Cross was also placed on the front side of the Shiva Temple there, which was then converted into a Christian place of worship.
Missions of St. Thomas
St. Thomas travelled from Palayoor to the south end of Kerala. During his journey he spread the message of Jesus and the eternal life available to all those who believe in Him. As a result, many Brahmins and people from other upper class sect of Hindus had believed in Jesus Christ and were baptized into Christianity. For the worship of such converted Christians, he had also established churches at Kondumgallore, Palayoor, Paravoor, Kokomangalam, Niranam, Chayal (Nilackal), Karakkenikollam (Kollam), and Thiruvamkodu (Arapplly). Thus in the first century itself many people throughout Kerala became believers and became Christians, which was a blessing and morale boosting to the descendants of them.
After the mission work in Kerala, St. Thomas travelled to Chola and Pandiya Kingdoms and conveyed the message of salvation through Jesus Christ. It is believed that ultimately he travelled up to China. Then returned to south India treading the places where he earlier visited, enquired and encouraged those who had accepted Jesus and became Christians. However, after his return to South India, the Brahmins who had become furious about the conversions of their people to Christianity, pierced him to death at the place, which is currently known as St. Thomas Mount. His body was buried at Mylapore. The mortal remains were also taken to the Headquarters of Eastern Church at “Urha” and buried there, which was on 3rd July. To commemorate this, every year 3rd July is celebrated as St. Thomas day
Palayoor to Kalikavu
As mentioned earlier, the four prominent Brahmin families - Kalli, Kalikavu, Shankarapuri and Pakalomattom constructed places of Christian worship adjacent to their Illums. Once they became Christians, the others associated with them also accepted Jesus Christ and became Christians. However, there was lack of facilities for Bible study. Also they had to face the opposition from other Brahmins who did not accept Jesus Christ as their Saviour. As a result some of them deserted the Christian faith and went back to their old way of life. Consequently, the firm believers of these 4 families left Palayoor and cursed that place. There is a story that this place became “Shapakkadu” synchronising with present day “Chavakadu”. The four families that departed from Palayoor travelled south wards and came over to Ankamali, Kadumthuruthi and later on to Ettumanoor. They approached the authorities at Ettumanoor for permission to settle down there. They were not permitted, but allowed them to stay at the northern side of Kalikavu Temple, which was then believed to be a devil possessed area, and not suitable for human habitation. Nevertheless, the forefathers of these four Brahmin families, who were very firm in their Christian faith, settled down there, built houses and lived there fearlessly and peacefully. They not only worshipped our Lord Jesus Christ there, but also witnessed Him to others.
Four Illums (Families) at Kalikavu
The four families who settled at Kalikavu with their ardent faith in Christianity became very blessed day by day, contrary to the expectations of those who oppressed them. They grew up like a tree planted by the river side, without withering its leaf, but brings fruits in all seasons. This was quite unexpected and unthinkable to other people there. With their new way of life, based on their faith in Jesus, disciplined life, humble behaviour, truthful and honest way of living, they became an example to others. It was indeed a great thing that the people of these four families could be living witness to others. The places where these four families had settled down are still known as Shankarapuri Purayidam, Pakalomattom Purayidam, Kavumckal Purayidam, and Kaleeckal Purayidam.
In those days there was no cemetery for the Christians at Kalikavu. Therefore, the dead bodies of them were buried on their own lands. Towards the eastern side of the Chapel there are now five very old tombs, and it is believed that those were the prominent members of the four families. But with the establishment of Christian church at Kuravilangadu, our forefathers moved over from Kalikavu and settled at Kuravilangadu. The four Brahmin families who had come to Kalikavu by the later part of second century lived there for a century. By then, their descendants and associates, coupled with those who became Christians through their witness, had become a very large community.
At Kuravilangadu
From the old records available, it is learnt that the Kuravilangadu church was established in 327 AD. Associated with this church there is hearsay. The children of the Christian families were minding their sheep over there. One day when those children after their work became very tired and resting with hunger and thirsty, when a beautiful middle aged lady appeared. Seeing the condition of the children, she took some stones and turned them to bread and gave to the children. She also shown a stream there and asked to drink water from that stream and then the leady disappeared. The children told the incident to their parents back at home. The next day the parents of the children came there to see the stream, when then the lady appeared again and asked them to build a church there. Accordingly, a church was built over there in the name of St. Mariam. That was the olden version of the current Marta Mariam Church at Kuravilangadu, which was built after the arrival of the Portuguese. After the church was built at Kuravilangadu by 327 AD, the descendants of the four Brahmin families together with a family from Kadapur branch, came over and settled near the Kuravilangadu church. Of them, Kalli and Pakalomattom settled at the northern side, while Shankarapuri and Kalikavu on the southern side. Thus, later on, Pakalomattom became known as “Vadakkedom” and Shankarapuri as “Thekkedam”.
From Kuravilangadu to Edathua
With the passage of time there was enormous increase in the population of those four families, who were baptized by St. Thomas at Palayoor and who had come down and settled at Kuravilangadu. As such, these families started to disperse to several locations. The great commission of “go the ends of the earth and proclaim the good news” also prompted them to be Christian witnesses at other places.
Accordingly, the people of Shankarapuri Thekkedom dispersed to several locations, and of them, one branch came down to Edathua about four centuries back. They had settled at the northern side of Pumpa River and were known as Shankarapuri Thekkedam. The original place of this family was the northern side of the current Anaprampal Mar Thomas Church. They lived a very devoted Christian life, with their firm faith, attending prayers, and worshipping the Lord in truth and spirit. As there was no Christian Church at Edathua then, they travelled and attended the Church at Niranam, which was one of the churches established by St. Thomas.
In course of time, the population of Shankarapuri Thekkedom family increased and dispersed into several branches – Vettuthottumckal, Maliyil, Maliackel, Kandathiparampil, Peedikayil and Puthenparampil. These families were blessed by God spiritually, socially and economically. There were several people who were holding leadership roles both in spiritual and social spheres. Vadekkekalam family is a branch of Kandathiparampil family, who were settled at Alapuzha. Pothen Joseph, a prominent businessman who was honoured with “Chevalier” position was from this family. Similarly, Puthenparampil Thommachen, who was known as “Kerala Assissi” was from Puthenparampil Branch. He was born in 1836 and lived for 72 years as a famous witness for Christ. Following the order of St. Francis, he helped and took care of the destitute. He lived a very holy life with prayers and worships. It is a matter of great encouragement for us to know that he was from our family itself. The Catholic Church has initiated actions to declare him as “Saint” and let us pray for it.
Maliyil Branch
Maliyil family is a branch of Shankarapuri Thekkedom, who had come from Kuravilangadu and settled at Edathua. By the side of the public road of Thiruvalla-Edathua, Anaprampal Mar Thoma Church is situated. There is a concrete bridge that connects the sides of a branch of Pumpa River. The first house after the bridge is the Maliyil family. Iduculla, the founder father of Kuzhikala Thekkethundiyil Kudumbham was from this family.
Kuzhikala Thekkethundiyil Family
Kuzhikala is about 5 kilometres south of Kozhencherry, situated on both sides of Kozhencherry-Panthalam public road. With paddy fields, mingled with small streams and hills, Kuzhikala was then very fertile and suitable for agriculture. In addition, the nearby Kozhencherry Market, was then very famous for agriculture products with boating facilities through Pumpa River. That might have been the reasons which attracted our founder father Iducualla, whose main occupation was agriculture to settle down at Kuzhikala. Iduculla had bought the “Thekkethundi Purayidam” and settled there. As such, this family became known as Thekkethundiyil.
Iduculla was blessed with three daughters, and three sons – Tharian, Iype and Iduculla, who were also engaged in agriculture along with their father. In course of time, the daughters were married off and the three sons became three families at Kuzhikala.
In those days there was no Christian Church at Kuzhikala. Therefore, Iduculla and his family were attending the church at Omalloor, about eight kilometres away. Later on, church was established at Elanthoor and then at Kuzhikala.
In course of time, with the increase in the family members, the families started dispersing to other locations, and they are now known in different names, such as: Thekkethundiyil, Challirickal, Moolekonil, Kuzhiparampil, Vazhavilayil, Ayanthiyil, Mammachenkalayil, Panachakunnel, Kollanparampil, Paruthikuzha, Palathumpattu, Nellikattil, Muthangaparampil, Panachakunnel Malabar, Thekkethundiyil Malabar, Challirickal Malabar, and Thekkethundiyil. Karbar, etc.
Malabar Branch
With the increase in the family members and with the annexation of Malabar into Kerala; several families from Central Travencore went and settled at Malabar area. There are families from Thekkethundiyil, Panachakunnel, Challirickal, who are settled at Malabar and a few at Karbar in Karnataka. Considering their difficulties to attend the family meetings at Kuzhikala, a Malabar branch of Shankarapuri Thekkedathu Thekkethundiyil Kundumbham was inaugurated at the Annual meeting held at Chunkathara in 2010. There are currently more than 35 families associated with this branch.
