Jump to content

Mavelikkara: Difference between revisions

Coordinates: 9°16′01″N 76°33′00″E / 9.267°N 76.55°E / 9.267; 76.55
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Browse history interactively
← Previous edit
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
ce
 
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Short description|Town in Kerala, India}}
{{more citations needed|date=August 2022}}

{{Use British English|date=October 2011}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2020}}
<!-- See [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Indian cities]] for details -->
<!-- See [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Indian cities]] for details -->
{{Infobox Indian Jurisdiction |
{{Infobox settlement
native_name = Mavelikara |
| name = Mavelikara
| other_name =
type = Town |
| nickname =
latd =9.267 | longd =76.55|
| settlement_type = [[Municipalities of Kerala|Municipality]]<ref>https://lsgkerala.gov.in/system/files/2017-10/localbodies.pdf {{Bare URL PDF|date=August 2024}}</ref>
state_name = Kerala |
| image_skyline =
district = [[Alappuzha district|Alappuzha]] |
| image_alt =
leader_title = |
| image_caption =
leader_name = |
| pushpin_map = India Kerala#India
altitude = |
| pushpin_label_position =
population_as_of = 2001 |
| pushpin_map_alt =
population_total = 28440|
| pushpin_map_caption = Location in Kerala, India
population_density = |
| coordinates = {{coord|9.267|N|76.55|E|display=inline,title}}
area_magnitude= sq. km |
| subdivision_type = Country
area_total = |
| subdivision_name = {{flagu|India}}
area_telephone = |
| subdivision_type1 = [[States and territories of India|State]]
postal_code = |690101
| subdivision_name1 = [[Kerala]]
vehicle_code_range = |KL-31
| subdivision_type2 = [[List of districts of India|District]]
sex_ratio = |
| subdivision_name2 = [[Alappuzha district|Alappuzha]]
unlocode = |
| established_title = <!-- Established -->
website = alappuzha.nic.in/mavelikara_taluk.html |
| established_date =
website_caption = alappuzha.nic.in |
| founder =
footnotes = |
| named_for = [[Mahabali]]
| government_type = [[Tehsil|Taluk]]
| governing_body = Municipal Council
| unit_pref = Metric
| leader_title1 = MLA
| leader_name1 = M S Arun Kumar
| area_footnotes =
| area_rank =
| area_total_km2 = 12.65
| elevation_footnotes =
| elevation_m =
| population_total = 26,421
| population_as_of = 2011
| population_rank =
| population_density_km2 = auto
| population_demonym =
| population_footnotes = <ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.citypopulation.de/en/india/kerala/|title = Kerala (India): Districts, Cities and Towns - Population Statistics, Charts and Map}}</ref>
| demographics_type1 = Languages
| demographics1_title1 = Official
| demographics1_info1 = [[Malayalam language|Malayalam]], English
| timezone1 = [[Indian Standard Time|IST]]
| utc_offset1 = +5:30
| postal_code_type = [[Postal Index Number|PIN]]
| postal_code = 690101
| area_code_type = Telephone code
| area_code = +91-479
| registration_plate = [[List of RTO districts in India#KL.E2.80.94Kerala|KL]]-31
| blank1_name_sec1 = Nearest cities
| blank1_info_sec1 = [[Alappuzha]] (43&nbsp;km)
[[Kottayam]] (44&nbsp;km)
[[Kollam]] (46&nbsp;km)
| blank2_name_sec1 = Literacy
| blank2_info_sec1 = 92.3%
| website = {{URL|http://www.mavelikaramunicipality.in/}}
| footnotes =
| official_name =
| MP =
| leader_name = [[Kodikunnil Suresh]]
| leader_title = MP
}}
}}
[[File:Chunakkara kettukazcha.jpg|thumb|upright|Mavelikara Chunakkara kettukazcha ]]
[[File:Vathikulam.jpg|thumb|upright|Vathikulam Devi temple|alt=Vathikulam Devi temple]]
[[File:Crist church mavelikara.JPG|thumb|upright|CSI Christ Church]]
[[File:KANDIYUR TEMPLE EAST TOWER.jpg|alt=Kandiyoor Sree Mahadeva Temple|thumb|[[Kandiyoor Sree Mahadeva Temple]]]]
[[File:Mattam narasimha padippura.JPG|thumb|upright|Mattom Padippura]]
[[File:Mulli temple.JPG|thumb|Mullikulangara temple]]
[[File:Chettiku temp.JPG|thumb|Chettikulangara Bhagavathy temple]]


'''Mavelikara''' is a town in [[Alappuzha district]] of [[Kerala]], [[India]]. It is in the southern part of Alappuzha district on the banks of the [[Achankovil River]]. Mavelikara is located on the [[Haripad]] - [[Pandalam]]- [[Pathanamthitta]] Road. Mavelikkara is close to [[NH 47]], National Highway. Mavelikara is known as the cultural capital of [[Onattukara]].
'''Mavelikara''' ({{IPA-ml|ma:ʋe:lik:aɾa|IPA}}) is a [[Municipalities of Kerala|municipality]]<ref>https://lsgkerala.gov.in/system/files/2017-10/localbodies.pdf {{Bare URL PDF|date=August 2024}}</ref> in the [[Alappuzha district]] of [[Kerala]], [[India]]. It is located {{convert|43|km|1|abbr=on}} south of the district headquarters in [[Alappuzha]] and about {{convert|95|km|1|abbr=on}} north of the state capital [[Thiruvananthapuram]]. As per the [[2011 Indian census]], Mavelikara has a population of 26,421 people, and a population density of {{convert|2088|/sqkm|abbr=on}}.


Mavelikara was the erstwhile capital of the feudal kingdom of [[Odanad]], and is today a primary economic and cultural hub of the [[Odanad|Onattukara]] region.
==Demographics==
As of the 2001 Indian [[census]],<ref>{{GR|India}}</ref> Mavelikara had a population of 28,440. Males constitute 47% of the population and females 53%. Mavelikara has an average literacy rate of 86%, higher than the national average of 59.5%. Male literacy is 87% and female literacy is 85%. In Mavelikara, 10% of the population is under 6 years of age.


==Economy==
==Etymology==
The name Mavelikara is believed to be turned out from the words ''Maveli'' or [[Mahabali]], the mythical king of Kerala, and ''Kara'' means land. This land is believed to be the place 'Mattom Mahadeva temple'where king Mahabali knelt before Vamana, offering his head for Vamana to keep his feet.{{citation needed|date=February 2022}}
Some of the industries in and around Mavelikkara are:
*ALIND Switchgear (near Mannar)
*Travancore Oxygen (near Kunnam)
*Sangrose Laboratories (in Mavelikara) specialises in the manufacture of soft-gelatin capsules. It is also one of the only companies in the world to manufacture [[clofazimine]].
*[[Kerala]] Wood Industries is a local splints and [[Wood veneer|veneers]] manufacturing company. It was established in 1965 under the Small-scale Industries Development Corporation (SIDCO).


==Politics==
==Background==
Mavelikara was a major centre of trade and commerce in ancient Kerala and the erstwhile capital of the rulers of [[Onattukara]]. As a result of the close association with the [[Travancore Royal Family]], Mavelikara gained modern facilities well ahead of other places in the state. It is one of the oldest municipalities of the state. Even before India attained independence, Mavelikara had a super express transport service to [[Trivandrum]].{{citation needed|date=September 2021}}
Mavelikara assembly constituency is part of [[Mavelikkara (Lok Sabha constituency)]].<ref>{{cite web
| url = http://archive.eci.gov.in/se2001/background/S11/KL_Dist_PC_AC.pdf
| title = Assembly Constituencies - Corresponding Districts and Parliamentary Constituencies
| accessdate = 2008-10-20
| work = Kerala
| publisher = Election Commission of India }}</ref> This Lok Sabha constituency consisted of Chengannur, Mavelikara, Kayamkulam, Pandalam, Thiruvalla, Kallupara until 2008. Since the Lok Sabha Delimitation in 2008, the assembly constituencies have comprised Changanassery, Kuttanad, Mavelikara(SC), Chengannur, Kunnathur(SC), Kottarakkara and Pathanapuram. The constituency is now reserved for a scheduled caste candidate.


The town boasts about a rich historical and cultural background. The place is home to one of the 108 Shiva temples of Kerala created by Lord [[Parashurama]], the [[Kandiyoor Mahadeva Temple]]. Mavelikara Sree Krishna Swami Temple, Sree Krishna Swami Temple is managed and owned by the Travancore Devaswom board. The [[Chettikulangara Devi Temple]], known for the ''[[Chettikulangara Devi Temple#Kumbha Bharani|Kumbha Bharani]]'' festival is located near the municipality. The only sarvam swayambhu shiva Temple in India is situated in Chunakkara, Mavelikara.
Kodikkunil Suresh of the [[Indian National Congress|INC]] has represented the Mavelikara Parliament constituency since 2009.
[[C.S. Sujatha]] of the [[Communist Party of India (Marxist)|(CPI-M)]] represented the Mavelikara Parliament constituency from 2004 to 2009. M. Murali (INC) has represented the Mavelikara Assembly constituency since 2006.


The town also has the famous St. Mary's Orthodox Cathedral founded in the year 943 AD and affiliated with the [[Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church]]. The church is locally referred to as "Puthiyacavu Pally" and is known for holding the Mavelikara Padiyola in 1836 in which the Malankara Orthodox Church refused the anglicization attempts of the British and severed ties with them. The church is also the diocesan cathedral of the [[Mavelikara Orthodox Diocese|Mavelikara Diocese]] in close proximity to Malankara Syrian Seminary in Thazhakara which hosts the Theobhavan Aramana and bishop's residence. The Mavelikara Diocese is currently headed by Vattamparambil Dr. Abraham Mar Epiphanios with about 80 parishes and a dozen chapels.<ref name="mosc.in">{{cite web|title=Mavelikara Diocese|url=http://mosc.in/dioceses/diocese-of-mavelikara|website=mosc.in|publisher=[[Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Mavelikara Diocese |url=https://directory.mosc.in/parishes/?diocese=303 |website=directory.mosc.in |access-date=19 June 2024}}</ref>
==Interesting facts==
{{Trivia|date=March 2011}}
[[Image:Mavelikara Buddha.jpg|thumb| 9<sup>th</sup> century Buddha statue at Mavelikara]]
Mavelikara was once part of the principality of [[Onattukara]] and has been a centre of religious harmony, culture and arts for several centuries.


== Demographics ==
As a testament to its link to that flourishing center of Buddhist culture, Mavelikara is one of the rare places in Kerala where one can find ''The Statue of Buddha in Seated Position'', which is dating back to the 9th Century AD.<ref>[http://www.prd.kerala.gov.in/mon_01.htm "Monuments-peeping into the past" Information & Public Relations Department, Government of Kerala]</ref>
As of [[2011 Census of India|2011 Census]], Mavelikara had a population of 26,421 with 12,070 males and 14,351 females. Mavelikara Municipality has an area of {{cvt|12.65|km2}} with 7,184 families residing in it. The average female sex ratio was 1189 higher than the state average of 1084. 7.7% of the population was under 6 years of age. Mavelikara had an average literacy of 96.9% higher than the state average of 94%: male literacy was 97.8% and female literacy was 96.2%.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Kerala |first1=Directorate of Census Operations |title=District Census Handbook, Alappuzha |publisher=Directorate of Census Operations, Kerala |location=Thiruvananthapuram |page=182,183 |url=https://censusindia.gov.in/2011census/dchb/3211_PART_B_ALAPPUZHA.pdf |access-date=14 July 2020}}</ref>


{| class="wikitable"
Mavelikara has produced eminent individuals and the current line of the Royal Travancore Family hails from the Mavelikkara Royal Family. [[Raja Ravi Varma]] was married to Pururuttathi Nal Bhageerathi Amma Thampuran (Kochu Pangi) of the Royal House of Mavelikara from which they had two sons and two daughters. Their eldest son, Kerala Varma, born in 1876 went missing in 1912 and was never heard from again. Their second son was Rama Varma (b.1879), an artist who studied at the JJ School of Arts, Mumbai, married to Srimathi Gowri Kunjamma, sister of Dewan PGN Unnithan. Raja Ravi Varma's elder daughter, Ayilyam Nal Mahaprabha Thampuran, appears in two of his prominent paintings and was mother of Maharani Sethu Lakshmi Bayi of Travancore. He had another daughter, Thiruvadira Nal Kochukunji Thampuran, grandmother of Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma Maharajah. His descendants comprise the Mavelikara Royal house while two of his granddaughters, including the said Sethu Lakshmi Bayi, were adopted to the Travancore Royal Family, the cousin family of the Mavelikara House, to which lineage the present Travancore Maharajah Uthradom Thirunal Marthanda Varma belongs. Well known among his descendants are writer Shreekumar Varma (Prince Punardam Thirunal), artists Rukmini Varma (Princess Bharani Thirunal) and Jay Varma, classical musician Aswathi Thirunal Rama Varma and others.
! rowspan="2" |Year
! rowspan="2" |Male
! rowspan="2" |Female
! rowspan="2" |Total Population
! rowspan="2" |Change
! colspan="8" |Religion (%)
|-
!Hindu
!Muslim
!Christian
!Sikhs
!Buddhist
!Jain
!Other religions and persuasions
!Religion not stated
|-
|2001<ref>[https://censusindia.gov.in/nada/index.php/catalog/21494/download/24626/PC01_C01_32.xls Census India 2001].</ref>
|28439
|13506
|14933
| -
|70.94
|0.98
|28.02
|0.00
|0.02
|0.00
|0.00
|0.04
|-
|2011<ref>[https://censusindia.gov.in/nada/index.php/catalog/11379/download/14492/DDW32C-01%20MDDS.XLS Census India 2011].</ref>
|26421
|12070
|14351
| -7.10%
|72.22
|1.04
|26.49
|0.02
|0.02
|0.00
|0.05
|0.17
|}


== Transport ==
P. G. N. Unnithan was the last Diwan (Prime Minister) of independent Travancore (Thiruvithamkoor).Sri PGN Unnithan hailed from the Edassery Pattaveettil Family of Mavelikkara which had a history of high military service to the Travancore Royal Family. He succeeded Sir C.P. Ramaswami Iyer on August 20, 1947 following the latters' resignation (subsequent to the attempt on Sir CP's life at the Swathi Thirunal Music academy on July 25, 1947). He chaired the Travancore Constitutional Reforms Committee. He relinquished office on March 24, 1948 when a people's government led by Sri Pattom Thanu Pillai as Prime Minister took over. Unnithan Lane at Sasthamangalam in Thiruvananthapuram is named after him.


=== Bus ===
Nooranad, a place in Mavelikkara, is known as "The bird Village of Kerala".
[[Kerala State Road Transport Corporation]] has a sub depot at Mavelikara (Station Code: MVKA) which is one among the 46 sub depots in the state. The KSRTC sub depot at Mavelikara has an inter state bus service which is operated to [[Tenkasi]] every day; 2 trips morning & evening via [[Kayamkulam]], [[Kattanam]].


The Municipal Private bus stand is located at Mitchel Junction with buses to [[Chengannur]], [[Pathanamthitta]], [[Adoor]], [[Pandalam]], [[Thiruvalla]], [[Haripad]], [[Kayamkulam]], [[Changanassery]].
==Cultural Events==


=== Rail ===
'''
{{main|Mavelikara railway station}}


[[Mavelikara railway station]] (Station Code:MVLK) is a mainline station in the Trivandrum Division of the [[Southern Railway Zone (India)]], with connections to [[New Delhi]], [[Mumbai]], [[Chennai]], [[Kolkata]], [[Bangalore]], [[Hyderabad, India|Hyderabad]], [[Ahmedabad]], [[Pune]], [[Mangalore]], [[Bhopal]], [[Guwahati]], [[Nagpur]] and [[Jammu]]. Other nearby stations are [[Kayamkulam Junction railway station]], [[Chengannur Railway Station]], [[Haripad railway station]] and [[Kollam Junction railway station]].
=== Chettikulangara Kumbabharani ===
Chettikulangara Kettukazhcha, conducted every year on the Bharani Nakshathram in the Malayalam month ‘Kumbham, is probably the most amazing cultural spectacle in [[Kerala]], similar to the [[Thrissur Pooram]].


=== Air ===
The nearest airports are [[Trivandrum International Airport]]115 km and [[Cochin International Airport]] (CIAL).127&nbsp;km
State highway SH 10 road start in mavelikara


== Economy ==
The event is an offering of the people of Chettikulangara to their beloved deity known for her spontaneous blessings on true devotees as a mark of gratitude, devotion, unflinching faith and for showering prosperity and protection to their lives. 'Kettukazhcha' displays deftly sculpted and decorated forms of six temple cars known as 'Kuthiras', five 'Therus' (Chariots ) as well as icons of Bhima and Hanuman. All the temple cars, chariots and the icons are gigantic in size and many times larger than any other similar Kuthiras and Therus built during the festivities at other temples in the [[Central Travancore]] region.
Local industries in and around Mavelikara include:
* [[Kerala State Road Transport Corporation|KSRTC]] Regional Workshop and Bus Body Building Centre Mavelikara<ref>[[Kerala State Road Transport Corporation]]</ref>
* ALIND Switchgear, [[Mannar, India|Mannar]]
Several small-scale industries are present in the Industrial Estate (an initiative of [[Small Industries Development Corporation|SIDCO]]) located at Kollakadavu.


== Politics ==
===Padanilam Sivarathri===
[[Padanilam]] is a developing small town situated in the Mavelikkara Taluk of Alappuzha district.The famous Padanilam Temple is situated at Padanilam.This temple is famous for its festivals.The main festival celebrating here is the [[sivarathri]].It is usually celebrating in the months of February or March.During the day thousands of devotees,even from other districts came to the temple to see the massive spctacular kettukazhcha.On sivarathri day morning there is a Kaavadiyaattam for Lord Murugan.Thousands took Kaavadi and come to the temple in large groups.On the evening of the day ,the most beautiful part of the celebration is held.Large kettukazhchas (Bulls ,which is the vehicle of Lord Siva )come to the temple.The happy croud dances with the rhythm of Kerala,'''The Sinkaarimelam'''.


=== Lok Sabha ===
Other festivals celebrating here include the Vrischikamahotsavam in the month of vrischikam.The celebration last for '''41 days''',mainly the first '''12 days'''.This temple is an Idathaavalam of Sabarimala Temple.The arrange many facilities for the devotees who are going to Sabarimala.The KSRTC arranges bus services from Padanilam to [[Pamba]] during the Mandalam-Makaravilakku season.


Mavelikara has [[Mavelikara (Lok Sabha constituency)|its own constituency]] in the [[Lok Sabha]].<ref>{{cite web
===''Vettiyar Pathamudayam''===
|url=http://archive.eci.gov.in/se2001/background/S11/KL_Dist_PC_AC.pdf
Pathamudayam, the famous temple festival is conducted at Vettiyar Palliyarakkavu temple.The 1000 year old temple has 7 Karas (territories).This is in the month of April 23 or 24th(Kollavarsham medam 10).The highlight of the festival is Kettukazhcha. The preparation for Pathamudayam starts days before the actual day and usually that day will be the Vishu.Meanwhile the people from 7 karas of Vettiyar will arrange for the construction of Kettukazhcha to the temple. People from each area will pull the Kettukazhcha from the construction sites to the temple to preset them before the Devi and after having darshan the parties take up their respective position in the ground lying east of the temple
|title=Assembly Constituencies – Corresponding Districts and Parliamentary Constituencies
|access-date=20 October 2008
|work=Kerala
|publisher=Election Commission of India
|url-status=dead
|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090304011026/http://archive.eci.gov.in/se2001/background/S11/KL_Dist_PC_AC.pdf
|archive-date=4 March 2009
}}</ref> Until the [[Delimitation Commission of India#Delimitation Commission of 2002|2002 Lok Sabha Delimitation]] took effect in 2008, the constituency consisted of Chengannur, Mavelikara, Kayamkulam, Pandalam, Thiruvalla and Kallupara. Since then, the assembly constituencies have comprised Changanassery, Kuttanad, Mavelikara (SC), Chengannur, Kunnathur (SC), Kottarakara and Pathanapuram. The constituency is now reserved for a [[Scheduled castes and scheduled tribes|scheduled caste]] candidate.{{citation needed|date=February 2022}}


[[Kodikunnil Suresh]] of the [[Indian National Congress|INC]] has represented the Mavelikara constituency since 2009.
===''Mother Teresa Trophy Boat Race''===
The Mother Teresa Trophy Boat Race is one of the most important [[boat race]]s on the [[Achankovil River]]. It is held during [[Onam]] every year, along the stretch between Mandapathu kadav ghat at Mavelikara and [[Prayikkara]] Bridge at [[Prayikkara]]. Many of the [[Snake Boat]]s in [[Kerala]] participate in this [[regatta]]. In 2008, the Payippadan Snake Boat came in first and received the Trophy.<sup>th</sup> race held on 06<sup>th</sup> [http://wikimapia.org/#lat=9.2612162&lon=76.5413457&z=18&l=0&m=a&v=2 PRAYIKKARA WATER STADIUM]'''


=== State Assembly ===
[[Image:boatracelogo.jpg]]


[[M.S Arunkumar]] from the [[Communist Party of India (Marxist)|CPI(M)]] is the representative of Mavelikara in the [[Kerala Legislature|Kerala Legislative Assembly]].
==Main Places==
* '''Kottakkakam''' or Fort Mavelikara is located at the heart of Mavelikara. Old Palaces were situated in this region and the Government Offices were situated in this area. SreeKrishna swamy temple is in this area.
*'''[[Padanilam]]''' is located in the eastern part of Mavelikkara Taluk.It is famous for the Padanilam Parabrahma Temple.This temple is famous for '''sivarathri''' festival.There is a kettukazhcha conducting during the festival.This temple is one of the '''idathaavalam''' of '''[[sabarimala]] temple'''.
*'''Bharanikavu and [[Pallickal]]''' is located on the Mavelikkara -Kurathikadu-Kayamkulam road. Bharanikavu is famous for its Devi Temple and its ''swarna jeevitha'' and houses one of the four ''Buddha Statues'', ''(Puthrachan)'', in the district. The famous churches of Kattanam add to the glory of this calm and peaceful panchayat. Government School-Bharanikkavu, Pope Pius XI High School, CMS High School are some of the major educational institutions. The panchayat was awarded the Best Grama Panchayat Award by the President of India.Cartoonist Yesudasan was born in Bharanikavu.


== Culture ==
*'''Chennithala''' is located in the northern part of Mavelikkara. Chennithala Panchayath shares its border with the municipal boundary of Mavelikkara. Chennithala Chellappan Pillai, the famous Kathakali artist, and [[Ramesh Chennithala]], the present President of the KPCC, were born here.


The cultural capital of Alappuzha is Mavelikara. Mavelikara was once part of the principality of [[Onattukara]] and has been a centre of religious harmony, culture and arts for several centuries.{{Citation needed|date=May 2012}}
*'''Cherukunnam''' - This is the place where you have one of the best CBSE schools around Mavelikkara. The schools name is, "Sree Narayana Central School". The School follows CBSE Syllabus and has Classes from L.K.G to XII. Cherukunnam is a beautiful village, 5 kilometers away from Mavelikara Town(in Mavelikara-Kattanam Bus Route).It was in 1987 that the Sree Narayana Samskarika Samithy had established this School as a modest nursery School with a vision to spread the light of knowledge as propounded by Sree Narayana Guru. "Get Enlightened through Eeducation" is the motto of the School. Now it has more than 1200 students.


As a testament to its link to that flourishing centre of [[Buddhism|Buddhist]] culture, Mavelikara is one of the rare places in Kerala where one can find the ''Statue of Buddha in Seated Position'', which dates back to the 9th century AD.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.prd.kerala.gov.in/mon_01.htm |title="Monuments-peeping into the past" Information & Public Relations Department, Government of Kerala |access-date=10 March 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070604230822/http://www.prd.kerala.gov.in/mon_01.htm |archive-date=4 June 2007 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
*'''[[Chettikulangara]]''' is located about 5&nbsp;km (3 miles) south-west of Mavelikkara. It is famous for the [[Chettikulangara Devi Temple]]. The Kumbha Bharani festival is conducted during February or March in the temple. The important festivity associated with this utsavam is "Kettu-Kazhcha" which resembles the Chinese festival celebrated on the birthday of Buddha. [[Kuthiyottam]] is also another important festivity. This is the second largest temple under Travancore Devaswom Board. Chettikulangara Amma is considered as the mother goddess of Onattukara.


Mar Ivanios, the pioneer of the Reunion Movement is from this holy socio-cultural land. He is from the Medayil Panicker Family situated at the center of the Mavelikara Town.
*''' Kallumala ''' - This is a place of educational importance. An English medium school and college functions in this area. The Mavelikara Railway Station and Main Market also functions around this place.


==Places of worship==
*'''Kandiyoor''' is a place of historical importance. It was there that the Travancore Raja gained the decisive victory over Kayamkulam Raja. The Mahadeva temple contains the sub-shrines considered to have been made especially sacred by the presence of all Gods of Hindu pantheon. It contains ancient inscriptions and it is noted for stone sculptures.
{{Main|Places of worship in Mavelikara}}
Notable places of worship include:-
<!---♦♦♦ Only add a places of worship to this list if it already has its own article on the English Wikipedia ♦♦♦--->
<!---♦♦♦ Please keep the list in alphabetical order ♦♦♦--->
* [[Chettikulangara Devi Temple]], founded in AD 823, is a Bhagawathy Temple. The major festival is [[Chettikulangara Kumbha Bharani]].
* [[Kandiyoor Sree Mahadeva Temple]], also known as ''Dakshina Kashi'' Founded in AD 731
* [[Mavelikara Maruthakshi Devi Temple]], Mavelikara


==Educational institutions==
*'''Thekkekkara''' Panchayath lies between Chettikulangara, Bharanicavu and Thazhakkara Panchayaths of Mavelikkara Taluk. Famous personalities from this place include Prof. R. Narendraprasad, Kandankara Krishnan Unnithan, Kadhikaratnam S.S.Unnithan, Varikkolil Kesavan Unnithan, Nadalayil Kunjukrishnan Unnithan, [[Indian magicians|Magician Samraj]] and P Sankaran Unnithan.
<!---♦♦♦ Only add a school or college to this list if it already has its own article on the English Wikipedia ♦♦♦--->
<!---♦♦♦ Please keep the list in alphabetical order by LAST NAME ♦♦♦--->
* [[Bishop Moore College]], Kallumala, Mavelikara
* CNPPM Vocational High School, Kattachira
* [[Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya]], Chennithala
* [[Peet Memorial Training College]], Mavelikara
* [[Raja Ravi Varma College of Fine Arts]], Mavelikara
* [[Sree Narayana Central School]], Mavelikara


==Hospitals==
*'''[[Vallikunnam]]''' is situated at the southern part of Mavelikkara. [[Thoppil Bhasi]] was born here, the founder of the [[K.P.A.C.]].
*Govt.hospital, Mavelikara
*VSM hospital
*Sreekandapuram hospital
*Meepallikutti hospital


== Notable people ==
*'''Varenickal ''': is a village situated in Thekkekara Panchayat, Mavelikara Taluk, Alappuzha district of Kerala state in South India. Nearest towns are 1.5 KM to Kurathikad on west, 7&nbsp;km to Mavelikara on the northwest, 18&nbsp;km to Chengannur on the north, 10&nbsp;km to Kayamkulam on the south and 2&nbsp;km to Chunakara on the east. Agriculture is the main occupation, though remittances from abroad form a significant source of income. Important places include Shree Parabhramodya Temple, Kunnam Kuzhi Temple, SNDP Mandir and Govt. U.P School. At Shree Parabhramodya Temple there is no building structure for the Shreekovil as the God has forbidden any construction at the site. The festival at the temple held during the "Mandala Season".
<!---♦♦♦ Only add a person to this list if they already have their own article on the English Wikipedia ♦♦♦--->
<!---♦♦♦ Please keep the list in alphabetical order by LAST NAME ♦♦♦--->
* [[Abu Abraham]], cartoonist and writer
* [[P. C. Alexander]], principal Secretary to former Prime Ministers Indira Gandhi and [[Rajiv Gandhi]], member of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Gupta |first1=Smita |title=PC Alexander Passes Away |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/pc-alexander-passes-away/article2342503.ece#:~:text=Born%20into%20an%20upper%20middle,of%20Jacob%20Cherian%20and%20Mariamma. |website=The Hindu |date=10 August 2011 |access-date=6 October 2023}}</ref>
* [[Zacharias Athanasios]], 3rd Bishop of Tiruvalla - Cherian Polachirackal, originally from Mavelikara, raised in the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church.<ref>{{cite web|title=Short History|url=http://www.tiruvallaarchdiocese.org/HistoryPage_ver1.php|work=Metropolitan Eparchy of Tiruvalla}}</ref>
* His Holiness [[Baselios Marthoma Didymos I]], leader of Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, 20th Malankara Metropolitan and 7th Catholicos of the Malankara Church
* [[Ramesh Chennithala]], home minister, leader of the Opposition in the Kerala Legislative Assembly
* [[Ramayyan Dalawa]], the chief minister and friend of [[Marthanda Varma|marthandavarma]]- the kavu in front of municipal office is in his name
* Archbishop Aboon [[Geevarghese Ivanios]], founding father of the Syro–Malankara Catholic Church, originally a bishop from the [[Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church]]
* [[T. K. Madhavan]], Reformist leader of modern Kerala
* [[Geevarghese Osthathios]], Bishop of [[Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church]], theologian, orator and writer
* [[Rahul Panicker]], award-winning innovator, entrepreneur, scientist
* [[Divya Pillai]], actress
* [[A. V. Vasudevan Potti]], poet and lyricist
* [[Narendra Prasad]], college professor, actor, author
* Justice [[C. T. Ravikumar]], Judge Supreme Court of India
* [[C. M. Stephen]], Leader of Congress and the [[Indian National Trade Union Congress|INTUC]], he is the first opposition leader of congress, a devoted member of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church<ref>{{cite web |title=MOSC: Lay Leaders |url=https://malankaraorthodox.tv/?cat=186 |website=MalankaraOrthodox.tv |publisher=MOSC TV |access-date=19 June 2024}}</ref>
* [[K. P. A. C. Sulochana]], actress and playback singer
* [[P. G. N. Unnithan]], the last Diwan (Prime Minister) of independent Travancore
* [[M. S. Valiathan]], cardiac surgeon, former President of the Indian National Science Academy and National Research Professor
* [[A. R. Raja Raja Varma]], grammarian and poet
* [[Raja Ravi Varma]], artist
* [[Ravindra Varma]], minister for Labour and Parliamentary Affairs in the Morarji Desai Ministry in India from 1977 to 1979
* [[R. Marthanda Varma]], India's first neurosurgeon and developer of a surgical technique for treating Parkinson's disease
* [[Vishnupriya (actress)|Vishnupriya]]- Malayalam film actress
* [[Yesudasan]], cartoonist and member of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church<ref>{{cite web |title=Cartoonist Yesudasan Funeral |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IfgkyrqUtMs |website=youtube.com | date=7 October 2021 |publisher=Manorama News |access-date=19 June 2024}}</ref>
<!---♦♦♦ Only add a person to this list if they already have their own article on the English Wikipedia ♦♦♦--->
<!---♦♦♦ Please keep the list in alphabetical order by LAST NAME ♦♦♦--->


== See also ==
*'''Vathikulam''' is located about 7&nbsp;km south of Mavelikkara and is surrounded by temples. Two schools are located there, Vathikulam LP School and Alummoottil LP School. Bethel Marthomma Church and Vathikulam Martomma Church are the two churches that can be found. Temples are Vathikulam Temple, Changeth Temple and Alampeth Temple.
* [[Charummood]]

* [[Chettikulangara]]
*'''Vazhuvady''' - A beautiful village, 4&nbsp;km away from Mavelikara Town. ”Haritha shobhayaarnna. .Manoharamaya...oru gramam..athanu..Vazhuvady”. The three sides of this village is blessed with Achankovil river. The famous malankara orthodox church commonly known as “Vazhuvady Pally (Mar Baselios orthodox church, Vazhudady)” which have given many blessings to the people of Vazhuvady is located in the heart of the village. The church has got the “''Holy Relic''” of [[Baselios Geevarghese II|His Holiness Baselios Geevarghese II]], Third Catholicos of the East in Malankara . This small village also blessed with temples like Kirathankavu. Siva.Temple", “Panayannarkau Devi Temple", and “Sri Muruka Temple(Gurumandiram)". There are 2 Schools ie LPS govt school, Vishwakarma Hindu UP school in this village and there is one bridge connecting vazhuvady with thonakkadu called “Pottamaelkadav Bridge” which is the shortest way to Chegannoor from Mavelikara. The former Shabarimala Melshanti 'Hon. Eswaran Nampoothiri' and the Malankara Orthodox Metropolitan 'H.G Yuhannon Mar Thevodorous' are the two respected personalities from this village.
* [[Karunagappalli]]

* [[Mannar, Alappuzha|Mannar]]
*'''[[Vettiyar]]''' is located about 7&nbsp;km east of Mavelikkara, on the banks of [[Achankovil|Achenkovil river]]. Green paddy fields stretch to acres of lands with rubber plantations, cashew trees, coconut trees, bettel leaves and many more. Vettiyar is a small village where urbanization has not yet reached and the traquility of a southern Indian village still remains. It is a peaceful and green village, where you can still listen to the Achenkovil river flowing and the singing of the birds. Pathamudayam, the famous temple festival is conducted at Palliyarakkavu temple.Tha famous church of malankara orthodox church, this church celebrate perunal sep 1 to 8
* [[Mavelikara (Lok Sabha constituency)]]
*'''[[kurathikadu]]'''
* [[kayamkulam]]

==Religion==
=== Temples ===
*The [[Chettikulangara Devi Temple]] founded in AD 823, is a famous, Bhagawathy Temple. This temple was consecrated by Padmapadacharyar (a disciple of Adi Shankara). The festival season is February and March.

*[[Padanilam]] Parabrahma Temple,Nooranad.

*Kandiyoor Temple is the oldest historical evidence of the rich heritage of Mavelikara. This is also known as Dakshina Kashi. The Kandiyoor Temple is one of 108 temples dedicated to Siva. Saint Mrikandu, the father and guru of Markandeya, got an idol of Kiratha Moorthy, while taking a bath in the holy river, the Ganges. He heard a divine voice (Assariri) telling him to put the idol in a holy place. Mrikandu travveled far and finally reached Kandiyoor (derived from "Kandathil Nalla Ooru" meaning "the best place ever seen"). Thus, the temple was established and renamed Kandiyoor.

*Sree Krishna Swami Temple is managed and owned by the Travancore Devaswom board. The main festival is held during Meenam. The Statue of Buddha at the Buddha junction in front of the temple has been recovered from the Achankovil River.

* Shree Parabhramodya Temple - Varenickal, There is no building structure for the Shreekovil as the God has forbidden any construction at the site. The festival at the temple held during the Dec-Jan Mandala season.

*Shree Saraswati Temple - Thattarambalam is situated at Thattarambalam dedicated to Saraswati Devi.Recent donations have led to better developments of the temple structure.Main festival held is during the Navarathri Festival period dedicated toDurga Devi.Many people attend the festival.
* Ponnaramthottam Devi temple situated near Power House and District Court
* Dhanwanthari Temple, Prayikkara.
* Subramanya Swamy temple , Thazhakkara
* Ganapathy Temple, Aalthara, Padinjare Nada.
* Mannoor Madhom Siva temple.
*Mattom Narasimha Swamy Temple is situated at north of thattarambalam. This is one of the oldest temple in Mavelikara. It situated near Achankovil river. The festivel of the temple takes place during Vrichikam (Nov-Dec)

*Mannalil Temple - Aranoottimangalam is situated to the south of aranoottimangalam. The festival day is Makaram 28, famously known as "Irupathettam Ucharam"

*Tharamel Devi Kshethram - Aranoottimangalam which is another bhagavathi temple situated to the central part of Aranoottimangalam. This originally belonged to the Kalaykkattu Family. This temple has been handed over to the NSS Karayogam No. 66 by the Family Heads (Nalayyathu Chellappan Nair and Thattarethu Damodara Panicker). Now this temple is owned and managed by the NSS Karayogam, No. 66. The renovation work has just been completed.

*Ammancheril Devi Kshethram - Aranoottimangalam

===Churches===

*'''St.Mary's Orthodox Cathedral''' is an old church with a history going back to the 10<sup>th</sup> century. Founded in AD 943, the church held many famous meetings. The meeting between [[Mar Thoma VI]] and the Antiochean bishop Shakrulla paved way for usage of West Syrian rites in Malankara.<ref>footnotes of "Jornada of Dom Alexis de Menezes: A Portuguese account of the Sixteenth century Malabar" edited by Dr. Pius Malekandathil.</ref> It was visited by Archbishop Menezes in the 16<sup>th</sup> century and by Claudius Buchanan in the 19<sup>th</sup> century. The famous Mavelikkara Padiyola was held in this church in 1836.<ref>[http://saintgregorios.org/PARUMALA/mavelikara__padiyola.htm]</ref> Orthodox Christians form the major Christian community in Mavelikara. There are around 5,000 Orthodox families in and around Mavelikkara.

*'''C.S.I. Christ Church''' is the oldest protestant church in Mavelikara. The first church building was dedicated on May 22, 1839 and the present building constructed in Gothic architectural style was dedicated and opened for worship in November 1845<ref> Souvenir published during 100 year celebrations of the congregation.</ref> and rededicated on April 3, 1850.<ref>John, Eipe, "Rev. Joseph Peet Vyaktiyum Darshanavum (Rev. Joseph Peet - Man and Vision)", ''Triteeya Suvarana Jubilee Smaranika (150th Jubilee Souvenir)'', CSI Christ Church Mavelikara, 1996 pp 37-41. </ref> It was built by Rev. Joseph Peet, who was a Church Missionary Society (CMS) missionary. Situated in the heart of the Mavelikara town on the bank of Achenkovil river, the nineteen acre church campus currently houses the Arch Deacon Oommen Mammen Memorial Lower Primary School, the Bishop Hodges High School and Higher secondary school, the Peet Memorial Training College, A music school, an auditorium with a couple of indoor badminton courts and the Church cemetery. Christ Church is also known for its choir which is believed to be leading church services since 1886.<ref> http://csichoirmvk.com </ref>
[[File:Csimvk.JPG|thumb|Christ Church]]


*'''C.S.I. Ascension Church''' Cherukunnam is 150 years old. It belongs to the Central Kerala Diocese of Church of South India. It has 88 families and about 500 members. The church is located at about 6&nbsp;km away from Mavelikara along Mavelikara-Kattanam PWD Road. The contact address is CSI Ascension Church, Cherukunnam, Thekkekkara PO, Mavelikara, Pin: 690107.
*Church of god in India, Chettikulangara (shalom prayer hall) is a a pentecostal church located at Erezha South region of Chettikulangara gram panchayat.established in the year 2004, under Church of God in India, Mulakkazha Head Quarters, Chengannoor, India

*'''Marthoma Church''' Thazhakara is 110 years old. Peedikayil Stephanos Malpan is the first priest of the Marthoma parish in Mavelikara. In 1898, 32 families belonging to the marthoma sect, forfeited all their rights on the St.Marys Orthodox Church and started regular prayers at the temporary church. Initially, the parish included the regions of Mullikkulangra, Peringilippuram and Kallimel. Under the leadership of [[Polachirackal]] K. Jacob Kassisa ([[Polachirackal]] Kumbathittayil Achan) and with the co-operation of the parish, the Marthoma Church of Thazhakara became a reality. On December 26, 1928, Titus II Metropolitan and Abraham Suffragan Metropolitan jointly performed the Koodasha. Now the parish with its over 335 families has a nursery, parish hall, shop building, parsonage, polachirakkal colony and Jyothis school( A school for mentally challenged children ).

*'''Mar Baselios Orthodox Church''' commonly known as “Vazhuvady Pally (Mar Baselios orthodox church, Vazhudady)” The church has the “''Holy Relic''” of “[[Baselios Geevarghese II|His Holiness Baselios Geevarghese II]]", third Catholicos of the East in Malankara.

*'''Syro-Malankara Catholic Diocese''' of Mavelikara is the sixth diocese of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church with 94 parishes and 37,000 worshipers. The Bishop is Aboon Joshua Mor Ignathios, who is a descendant of the [[Polachirackal]] Family. His house is situated in Punnamoodu, two kilometres from the heart of Mavelikara. The throne church of this Diocese is St. Mary's Malankara Syrian Catholic Cathedral, Punnamoodu. This is a suffurgan diocese of the Major Archiepiscopal Eparchy of Trivandrum.<ref>[http://www.mavelikkaradiocese.org Mavelkara Diocese]</ref>

*Prayikkara Matha also known as St. Mary's Latin Catholic Church, is situated at [[Prayikkara]]. Founded on the name of the Holy [[Virgin Mary]], the [[Feast]] of the [[Immaculate Conception]] of the Holy Virgin is celebrated on 8 December every year.

*'''Pentecostal''' Church of God in India Chettikulangara (Shalom Prayer Home) at Erezha South, is established under church of god in india, in 2004,

*Assemblies of God Bethal Hall established in 1924 ,known as First Assembly Of God Church, Mavelikara,‎ SH 6, Mavelikkara. Transit: Kerala State Road Transport Corporation.
<!--- pleae post the details of where the church is located in mavelikara. Alsoe mention, who started, with how many member etc...Do not need a ful address.. and please supply references otherwise is likely to be removed-->

==Education==
*Sri Vellapally Natesan College Of Engineering, [[Pallickal]]
*Sree Buddha Central School,Pattoor, [[Padanilam]]
*Sree Narayana Central School, Cherukunnam, Mavelikara-7
* A.v.Sanskrit UP School,Thazhakara
* M.S.S High School ,Thazhakara.
* S.V.L.P School ,Thazhakara.
* Vidhyadhiraja Vidya Peetom Central School, Ponnaramthottam.
* Vidyadhiraja Vidyapeedom LP School Mvk.follwing BVN international
* Vijnana Santhayani Sanskrit High School (VSSHS) Koypallikaranma
* Thekekkara Government UP School, near the major Koypallikaranma Temple
* [[Bishop Moore College]].
* [[Bishop Moore Vidyapith]], Kallumala.
* Seventh Day Adventist English Medium High School.
* College of Applied Sciences(IHRD).
* Raja Ravivarma Fine Arts College.
* Infant Jesus ISC School.
* TMVMHS, Vettiyar
* St. Mary's Cathedral Public School.
* Pope Pius XI Higher Secondary School, Kattanam.
* Govt. Boys' Higher Secondary School.
* Govt. Girls' Higher Secondary School.
* Govt. Higher Secondary School, Chettikulangara.
* Bishop Hodges Higher Secondary School
* TTI School
* Mahatma Higher Secondary School for Boys, Chennithala.
* Mahatma Higher Secondary School for Girls, Chennithala.
* Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Chennithala.
* Cherupushpa Central School, Chunakkara
* Amala LP School, Erezha.
* Vathikulam L P School
* Mar Ivanious School
* [[CNPPM Vocational HS]], Kattachira.
* NSS High School, Kurathikad.
* Govt. LP School Kurathikad.
* S.N. Central School, Cherukunnam.
* A.G.R.M.H.S.S Vallikunnam
* Govt. UP School, Varenickal.
* A.O.M.M. L.P.School.
* Vikram Sarabhai I.T.E.
* St.Mary's Central School, Vettiyar
* Erezha U.P School, Erezha South P.O,Chettikulangara.
* Govt. L. P School,Kandiyoour.
* K.K.M. Govt. V.H.S.S. Elippakulam.
* Govt L.P.S. Elippakulam.

==See also==
* [[Pathanamthitta]]
* [[Mavelikkara (Lok Sabha constituency)]]
* [[Onattukara]]
* [[Vettiyar]]
* [[Padanilam]]
* [[Padanilam]]
* [[Thriperumthura]]
* [[Vallikunnam]]


== References ==
School
{{reflist}}
Govt. LP School.Kandiyoor, Mavelikara
Govt. UP School (Uluvathu School), Panachamoodu
St. Johns Higher Secondary School, Pathichira, Mattom
St. Johns ITI, Pathichira, Mattom
St. Johns English Medium School,Pathichira, Mattom,
Vidyadhiraja

==Major towns near Mavelikara==
*North : [[Thiruvalla]]
*North East: [[Chengannur]]
*East : [[Pandalam]]& [[Mankamkuzhy]]
*West : [[Harippad]]
*South : [[Kayamkulam]]
*South East: [[Charummodu]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}


==External links==
== External links ==
{{commons category}}
* [http://mavelikaraonline.com Open Website for mavelikara(Users contributing the Content)]
* [https://www.shappees.com Shappil House - Ancient Family in Mavelikara]
* [http://alappuzha.nic.in/mavelikkara_taluk.html Official website of Mavelikkara taluk]
* [http://www.alappuzhaonline.com More details of Mavelikkara]
* [http://www.mahadevatemple.com Chengannur Mahadeva/Devi temple]
* [http://www.mavelikara.org Mavelikara website]
* [http://www.mavelikaraeparchy.org Syro-Malankara Diocese of Mavelikara]


{{Kerala}}
{{Kerala}}
Line 247: Line 268:


[[Category:Cities and towns in Alappuzha district]]
[[Category:Cities and towns in Alappuzha district]]
[[Category:Trivandrum railway division]]

[[bn:মাবেলিক্কর]]
[[bpy:মাবেলিক্কর]]
[[it:Mavelikkara]]
[[ml:മാവേലിക്കര]]
[[new:मवेलिक्कारा]]
[[vi:Mavelikkara]]
[[zh-classical:馬維力卡拉]]
[[wuu:马维力卡拉]]

Latest revision as of 22:13, 7 January 2025

Mavelikara
Municipality[1]
Mavelikara is located in Kerala
Mavelikara
Mavelikara
Location in Kerala, India
Mavelikara is located in India
Mavelikara
Mavelikara
Mavelikara (India)
Coordinates: 9°16′01″N 76°33′00″E / 9.267°N 76.55°E / 9.267; 76.55
Country India
StateKerala
DistrictAlappuzha
Named forMahabali
Government
 • TypeTaluk
 • BodyMunicipal Council
 • MPKodikunnil Suresh
 • MLAM S Arun Kumar
Area
 • Total
12.65 km2 (4.88 sq mi)
Population
 (2011)[2]
 • Total
26,421
 • Density2,100/km2 (5,400/sq mi)
Languages
 • OfficialMalayalam, English
Time zoneUTC+5:30 (IST)
PIN
690101
Telephone code+91-479
Vehicle registrationKL-31
Nearest citiesAlappuzha (43 km)

Kottayam (44 km)

Kollam (46 km)
Literacy92.3%
Websitewww.mavelikaramunicipality.in
Mavelikara Chunakkara kettukazcha
Vathikulam Devi temple
Vathikulam Devi temple
CSI Christ Church
Kandiyoor Sree Mahadeva Temple
Kandiyoor Sree Mahadeva Temple
Mattom Padippura
Mullikulangara temple
Chettikulangara Bhagavathy temple

Mavelikara (IPA: [ma:ʋe:lik:aɾa]) is a municipality[3] in the Alappuzha district of Kerala, India. It is located 43 km (26.7 mi) south of the district headquarters in Alappuzha and about 95 km (59.0 mi) north of the state capital Thiruvananthapuram. As per the 2011 Indian census, Mavelikara has a population of 26,421 people, and a population density of 2,088/km2 (5,410/sq mi).

Mavelikara was the erstwhile capital of the feudal kingdom of Odanad, and is today a primary economic and cultural hub of the Onattukara region.

Etymology

[edit]

The name Mavelikara is believed to be turned out from the words Maveli or Mahabali, the mythical king of Kerala, and Kara means land. This land is believed to be the place 'Mattom Mahadeva temple'where king Mahabali knelt before Vamana, offering his head for Vamana to keep his feet.[citation needed]

Background

[edit]

Mavelikara was a major centre of trade and commerce in ancient Kerala and the erstwhile capital of the rulers of Onattukara. As a result of the close association with the Travancore Royal Family, Mavelikara gained modern facilities well ahead of other places in the state. It is one of the oldest municipalities of the state. Even before India attained independence, Mavelikara had a super express transport service to Trivandrum.[citation needed]

The town boasts about a rich historical and cultural background. The place is home to one of the 108 Shiva temples of Kerala created by Lord Parashurama, the Kandiyoor Mahadeva Temple. Mavelikara Sree Krishna Swami Temple, Sree Krishna Swami Temple is managed and owned by the Travancore Devaswom board. The Chettikulangara Devi Temple, known for the Kumbha Bharani festival is located near the municipality. The only sarvam swayambhu shiva Temple in India is situated in Chunakkara, Mavelikara.

The town also has the famous St. Mary's Orthodox Cathedral founded in the year 943 AD and affiliated with the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church. The church is locally referred to as "Puthiyacavu Pally" and is known for holding the Mavelikara Padiyola in 1836 in which the Malankara Orthodox Church refused the anglicization attempts of the British and severed ties with them. The church is also the diocesan cathedral of the Mavelikara Diocese in close proximity to Malankara Syrian Seminary in Thazhakara which hosts the Theobhavan Aramana and bishop's residence. The Mavelikara Diocese is currently headed by Vattamparambil Dr. Abraham Mar Epiphanios with about 80 parishes and a dozen chapels.[4][5]

Demographics

[edit]

As of 2011 Census, Mavelikara had a population of 26,421 with 12,070 males and 14,351 females. Mavelikara Municipality has an area of 12.65 km2 (4.88 sq mi) with 7,184 families residing in it. The average female sex ratio was 1189 higher than the state average of 1084. 7.7% of the population was under 6 years of age. Mavelikara had an average literacy of 96.9% higher than the state average of 94%: male literacy was 97.8% and female literacy was 96.2%.[6]

Year Male Female Total Population Change Religion (%)
Hindu Muslim Christian Sikhs Buddhist Jain Other religions and persuasions Religion not stated
2001[7] 28439 13506 14933 - 70.94 0.98 28.02 0.00 0.02 0.00 0.00 0.04
2011[8] 26421 12070 14351 -7.10% 72.22 1.04 26.49 0.02 0.02 0.00 0.05 0.17

Transport

[edit]

Bus

[edit]

Kerala State Road Transport Corporation has a sub depot at Mavelikara (Station Code: MVKA) which is one among the 46 sub depots in the state. The KSRTC sub depot at Mavelikara has an inter state bus service which is operated to Tenkasi every day; 2 trips morning & evening via Kayamkulam, Kattanam.

The Municipal Private bus stand is located at Mitchel Junction with buses to Chengannur, Pathanamthitta, Adoor, Pandalam, Thiruvalla, Haripad, Kayamkulam, Changanassery.

Rail

[edit]
Main article: Mavelikara railway station

Mavelikara railway station (Station Code:MVLK) is a mainline station in the Trivandrum Division of the Southern Railway Zone (India), with connections to New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Pune, Mangalore, Bhopal, Guwahati, Nagpur and Jammu. Other nearby stations are Kayamkulam Junction railway station, Chengannur Railway Station, Haripad railway station and Kollam Junction railway station.

Air

[edit]

The nearest airports are Trivandrum International Airport115 km and Cochin International Airport (CIAL).127 km State highway SH 10 road start in mavelikara

Economy

[edit]

Local industries in and around Mavelikara include:

  • KSRTC Regional Workshop and Bus Body Building Centre Mavelikara[9]
  • ALIND Switchgear, Mannar

Several small-scale industries are present in the Industrial Estate (an initiative of SIDCO) located at Kollakadavu.

Politics

[edit]

Lok Sabha

[edit]

Mavelikara has its own constituency in the Lok Sabha.[10] Until the 2002 Lok Sabha Delimitation took effect in 2008, the constituency consisted of Chengannur, Mavelikara, Kayamkulam, Pandalam, Thiruvalla and Kallupara. Since then, the assembly constituencies have comprised Changanassery, Kuttanad, Mavelikara (SC), Chengannur, Kunnathur (SC), Kottarakara and Pathanapuram. The constituency is now reserved for a scheduled caste candidate.[citation needed]

Kodikunnil Suresh of the INC has represented the Mavelikara constituency since 2009.

State Assembly

[edit]

M.S Arunkumar from the CPI(M) is the representative of Mavelikara in the Kerala Legislative Assembly.

Culture

[edit]

The cultural capital of Alappuzha is Mavelikara. Mavelikara was once part of the principality of Onattukara and has been a centre of religious harmony, culture and arts for several centuries.[citation needed]

As a testament to its link to that flourishing centre of Buddhist culture, Mavelikara is one of the rare places in Kerala where one can find the Statue of Buddha in Seated Position, which dates back to the 9th century AD.[11]

Mar Ivanios, the pioneer of the Reunion Movement is from this holy socio-cultural land. He is from the Medayil Panicker Family situated at the center of the Mavelikara Town.

Places of worship

[edit]
Main article: Places of worship in Mavelikara

Notable places of worship include:-

Educational institutions

[edit]

Hospitals

[edit]
  • Govt.hospital, Mavelikara
  • VSM hospital
  • Sreekandapuram hospital
  • Meepallikutti hospital

Notable people

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ https://lsgkerala.gov.in/system/files/2017-10/localbodies.pdf [bare URL PDF]
  2. ^ "Kerala (India): Districts, Cities and Towns - Population Statistics, Charts and Map".
  3. ^ https://lsgkerala.gov.in/system/files/2017-10/localbodies.pdf [bare URL PDF]
  4. ^ "Mavelikara Diocese". mosc.in. Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church.
  5. ^ "Mavelikara Diocese". directory.mosc.in. Retrieved 19 June 2024.
  6. ^ Kerala, Directorate of Census Operations. District Census Handbook, Alappuzha (PDF). Thiruvananthapuram: Directorate of Census Operations, Kerala. p. 182,183. Retrieved 14 July 2020.
  7. ^ Census India 2001.
  8. ^ Census India 2011.
  9. ^ Kerala State Road Transport Corporation
  10. ^ "Assembly Constituencies – Corresponding Districts and Parliamentary Constituencies" (PDF). Kerala. Election Commission of India. Archived from the original (PDF) on 4 March 2009. Retrieved 20 October 2008.
  11. ^ ""Monuments-peeping into the past" Information & Public Relations Department, Government of Kerala". Archived from the original on 4 June 2007. Retrieved 10 March 2007.
  12. ^ Gupta, Smita (10 August 2011). "PC Alexander Passes Away". The Hindu. Retrieved 6 October 2023.
  13. ^ "Short History". Metropolitan Eparchy of Tiruvalla.
  14. ^ "MOSC: Lay Leaders". MalankaraOrthodox.tv. MOSC TV. Retrieved 19 June 2024.
  15. ^ "Cartoonist Yesudasan Funeral". youtube.com. Manorama News. 7 October 2021. Retrieved 19 June 2024.
[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Mavelikkara.
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/enwiki/w/index.php?title=Mavelikkara&oldid=1268038467"