94-726: Neeleeswaram , a small village in the Ernakulam district of the Kerala state of India . It is on the way to the famous St. Thomas pilgrim centre of Malayattoor . The Periyar River flows through the south of the village. Neeleeswaram is part of the Malayattoor-Neeleeswaram Grama Panchayat . Near to the main junction of Neeleeswaram, there is the Panchayat Office and Assumption Monastery Parish Church, SNDP Branch and LP School . The east boundary of Neeleeswaram
188-558: A Yajna ( homa sacrifices/rituals ) and grant anyone any request during the Yajna . Vishnu took the avatar – his fifth – of a dwarf monk called Vamana and approached Mahabali. The king offered anything to the boy – gold, cows, elephants, villages, food, whatever he wished. The boy said that one must not seek more than one needs, and all he needed was "three paces of land." Mahabali agreed. Vamana grew to an enormous size and covered everything Mahabali ruled over in just two paces. For
282-419: A sex ratio of 1027 females for every 1000 males, and a literacy rate of 95.89%. 68.07% of the population lives in urban areas. Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes make up 8.18% and 0.50% of the population respectively. Languages of Ernakulam district (2011) According to the 2011 census , 96.70% of the population spoke Malayalam, 0.97% Konkani and 0.94% Tamil as their first language. This district
376-467: A Hindu temple-based community festival celebrated over a period of many days. Onam is an ancient Hindu festival of Kerala that celebrates rice harvest. The significance of the festival is in Indian culture, of which two are more common. According to Hindu mythology, Mahabali was the great-great-grandson of a Brahmin sage named Kashyapa , the great-grandson of a demonic dictator, Hiranyakashipu , and
470-403: A diverse range of celebrations and activities ranging from boat races, cultural programs, sports competitions, dance events, martial arts, floral Rangoli – pookkalam , prayers, shopping, donating time or food for charity to spending time with family over feasts. Men and women wear traditional dress. The Kerala sari or Kasavu sari is particularly wore on this day. The Onam celebrations across
564-583: A form of integration with Hindus, mutual respect and sharing a tradition. Paulinus of St. Bartholomew (1748–1806), in his ' A voyage to the East Indies ' describes Onam as : The fourth grand festival, celebrated in Malayala, is called Onam, and happens always in the month of September, on the day of new moon (not always). About the 10th of September the rain ceases in Malabar. All nature seems as if regenerated;
658-524: A great likeness to the Cerealia and Juvenalia of the ancient Greeks and Romans. According to P.S. Salini, a research scholar in Islamic studies, most Muslims join the festivities with their friends and celebrate "Hindu festivals such as Onam". According to a 2001 chapter by Filippo Osella and Caroline Osella, both Hindus and non-Hindus have celebrated Onam equally "as a time when the unity of the family and kin group
752-433: A great sense of religious unity. All the families are known by traditional family names such as Manjaly, Konukudy, Manavalan, Poonely, Pullan, Chiraparamban, Arackal, Thanickaparambil, Vadakkedathu, Karingen, Kidangen, Konooran, Moolan, Nadayil (Tharanilathu), Nedunkandathil, Kallookkaran, Kozhikkodathan, Kollamkudy, Chitten, Manickathan etc. The Kidangen family has more than 700 members in this village. Dr Vineetha G P clinic
846-639: A long religious context and history in Kerala and neighbouring parts of South India: चोकुयन्ते पृथुकततयश्चापतादिन्य उच्चैः सर्वानार्यःपतिभिरनिशम् लम्भयन्त्यर्थकामान्। बभ्रम्यन्ते सकलपुरुषैर्वल्लभाभ्यः प्रदातुम् चित्रम् वस्त्रम् श्रावणकुतुकम् वर्तते केरळेषु॥ Gangs of lads, playing their bows hoot loudly again and again; All women make their husbands provide wealth and pleasure; All men are wandering hither and thither to present beautiful garments to their women. The festivity of 'Sravana' takes place in Kerala . Traditional According to Kurup, Onam has been historically
940-640: A major chunk of the Kothamangalam UA. Hindus (46%) accounts for the largest community, followed by Christians (38%) ( Latin Catholic , Syro-Malabar , Jacobites , Pentecostals and Malankara Orthodox ) and Muslims (15.7%). A small population of Jains , Jews , and Sikhs reside in Kochi. Ernakulam once had a vibrant Jewish population, with several synagogues , known as the Malabar Jews who used to dominate
1034-845: A moderate climate and mostly falls within the Malabar Coast moist forests ecoregion, while the highlands are part of the South Western Ghats moist deciduous forests ecoregion. The Anamudi is the tallest peak in South India, on the border of Ernakulam and Idukki districts. Some parts of the Idamalayar Reserve Forest and Mankulam Forest Division have Sholas but these parts are inaccessible by road. The Idamalayar Reserve Forest, and Edamalakkudy . Many types of sand, soil, and rocks are abundant here. Cochin International Airport
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#17328581060881128-495: A procession consisting of caparisoned elephants surrounded by Kummatikali dancers. The masked dancers go from house to house performing the colourful Kummattikali . Onam Kali is a form of dance where players arrange themselves in circles around a pole or tree or lamp, then dance and sing songs derived from the Ramayana and other epics. Kathakali dance is also commonly performed during this time, with dancers enacting characters from
1222-633: A significant Konkani Hindu population who migrated from Goa during the Goa Inquisition . There is a small Jain community in Ernakulam district, concentrated mainly in Kochi city. The Sikh community in Ernakulam is also concentrated mainly in Kochi. There are more than 25 Sikh families in Kochi and there is one gurdwara . The Aluva Sivarathri festival at the Aluva Mahadeva Temple (situated on
1316-517: A small quantity of ghee , Erisheri, Molosyam, Rasam , Puliseri (also referred to as Velutha curry), Kichadi (not to be confused with Khichdi ) and Pachadi (its sweet variant), Moru ( buttermilk or curd mixed with water), Pickles both sweet and sour, and coconut chutney. The feast ends with a series of dessert called Payasam (a sweet dish made of milk, sugar, jaggery, and other traditional Indian savouries) eaten either straight or mixed with ripe small plantain. The curries are served with rice, usually
1410-471: A tiles factory. Neeleeswaram junction is the center point of the road connecting nearby villages of Kalady and Malayattoor . Govt. LP School and Cooperative Society buildings are situated at the center junction and alongside the road to Naduvattom . Naduvattom boasts off a vivid view with its paddy fields and its greenery. From this junction, there is road going to the north side passing through Jeevadan Convent, YMA, YCA junction. The region comes under
1504-539: Is Malayalam . English is widely used, mostly in business circles. Ernakulam became India's first district to have 100 percent banking or full "meaningful financial inclusion" in 2012. Ernakulam has a high Human Development Index of 0.801 (UNHDP report 2005), which is one of the highest in India. Ernakulam has played a part in the political history of south India since ancient times. The Jews , Syrians , Arabs , Chinese, Dutch, British, and Portuguese seafarers followed
1598-627: Is a sacred animal dedicated to the Goddess Lakshmi, the Ceres of the Indians. On this occasion they also put on new clothes throw aside all their old earthenware and supply its place by new. The men, particularly those who are young, form themselves into two parties and shoot at each other with arrows. These arrows are blunted, but exceedingly strong, and are discharged with such force, that a considerable number are generally wounded on both sides. These games have
1692-442: Is about 10 kilometres from Neeleeswaram-Naduvattom. Athirapilly , Vazhachal are some 20 kilometres from this place. This attracts tourists from all over Kerala. Also the international shrine of Malayattoor welcomes a huge number of pilgrims . Kalady -the birthplace of Adi Shankaracharya is also a popular destination. Ernakulam district Ernakulam ( IPA: [erɐɳɐːguɭɐm] ; ISO : Eṟaṇākuḷaṁ )
1786-931: Is also held by the Malayali diaspora in Singapore annually during Onam at the Jurong Lake . The Onam sadya (feast) is another indispensable part of Onam, and almost every Keralite either makes or attends one. The Onasadya reflects the spirit of the season and is traditionally made with seasonal vegetables such as yam, cucumber, ash gourd and so on. The feast is served on plantain leaves and consists of nine courses, but may include over two dozen dishes, including (but not limited to): Chips (especially Banana chips ), Sharkaraveratti (Fried pieces of banana coated with jaggery), Pappadam , various vegetable and soups such as Injipuli (also called PuliInji), Thoran , Mezhukkupuratti , Kaalan , Olan , Avial , Sambhar , Dal served along with
1880-449: Is attended by Vamana, who requests only three feet (steps) of land to build a fire-altar . Mahabali agrees, despite being told about Vamana's divine nature by the sage Shukra . Vamana grows in size, and in three strides, encompasses all of the universe and beyond. The three worlds are restored to Indra, and Mahabali and the asuras are banished to the netherworld ( Patala ). However, witnessing Mahabali's love for his subjects, Vamana grants
1974-828: Is celebrated in BECs (Basic Ecclesial communities) in Trivandrum with local rituals, according to Latin Catholic Bishop Selvister Ponnumuthan. These traditions, according to Selvister Ponnumuthan, start with the lighting of Nilavilakku , an arati that includes waving of flowers ( pushparati ) over the Bible, eating the Onam meal together with the Hindus as a form of "communion of brothers and sisters of different faiths". The significance of these practices are viewed by BECs in Trivandrum as
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#17328581060882068-474: Is divided geographically into highland, midland, and coastal area. The altitude of the highlands is about 300 m (980 ft). The Periyar River , Kerala's longest, flows through all the taluks except Muvattupuzha . The Muvattupuzha River and a branch of the Chalakkudy River also flow through the district. The average yearly rainfall in the district is 3,432 mm (135.1 in). The district has
2162-606: Is en route to the St. Thomas Shrine in Malayattoor . A huge number of pilgrims visit the shrine mostly during Good Friday and the Holy Month. Naduvattom has the St. Antony's Church in the name of Saint Anthony of Padua which also houses the parish hall for organizing cultural activities. The Naduvattom Church had celebrated its platinum jubilee in the year 2013. Sahrdaya club and Angel Club are
2256-517: Is formed by a section of the Western Ghats . Muvattupuzha and Kothamangalam taluks, which were initially parts of the Kottayam district and constitute the highlands. Muvattupuzhayar and Periyar are the main rivers, of which the latter flows through Muvattupuzha , Aluva , Kunnathunad and Parur taluks. During the rainy season these rivers are full and heavy floods affect the low-lying areas on
2350-481: Is grand in scale, and is attended by over ten thousand people from all religions and faiths. Festivities include Puli Kali (masked leopard dance) and traditional dance forms like Kaikotti Kali which are performed in various functions. The official Government celebrations start on this day with heavy illuminations in Thiruvananthapuram , Kochi and Kozhikode along with fireworks. Most cities in Kerala, such as
2444-439: Is in the foothills of the Western Ghats , so rubber plantations are plenty in number. Also various herbs are available in the forests which are used for making ayurvedic medicines. Bamboo corporation, crusher units are the major industries operating in this area. Heavy vehicles carrying rocks and soil are a common sight on the roads. Angamaly for Kalady (limited stop), Aluva (major stop). Cochin International Airport
2538-685: Is in this district. There are three prominent universities in Ernakulam: Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit in Kalady , Cochin University of Science and Technology in Kalamassery , and Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies in Kochi . The district has the most educational institutions in the state; as of 2019, there are 476 fully high-tech schools in Ernakulam. In 2017, Ernakulam district administration launched
2632-449: Is listed as the "most advanced" district in Kerala. It had a resident population of 3,105,798 as of 2001, excluding the commuters from neighbouring districts. According to the 2011 Census of India, Ernakulam District also houses the largest city (UA) in the state (17th largest in the country) – Kochi Urban Agglomeration . Kochi UA spans across 843km2 with a population of 2,119,724 (2.12 million), thereby housing approximately two thirds of
2726-493: Is located in the northern part of the district at Nedumbassery , Kochi. The district houses two Urban Agglomerations, Kochi and Kothamangalam . Kochi is the largest city in the state, and 17th most populous in the country according to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs rankings based on the 2011 Census, with an area of over 843km2 and 2.12 million population. The district is divided into three parts: lowland, midland, and
2820-663: Is mainly performed in the cultural district of Thrissur and thousands pour into the city to be a part of this art. Performances of the ritual worship dance, Theyyam , are given during the Onam season. In this, Mahabali is played by the Onathar. Its variations include characters such as Oneswaran and Onapottan . At the Thrikkakara temple, every day of the festival showcases one or more of these activities including Kathakali, Thiruvathira, Chakyar Koothu, Ottam Thullal, Patakam, Onam songs, and percussion instrument shows. The Onasadya here
2914-467: Is one of the 14 districts in the Indian state of Kerala , and takes its name from the eponymous city division in Kochi . It is situated in the central part of the state, spans an area of about 2,924 square kilometres (1,129 sq mi), and is home to over 9% of Kerala's population. Its headquarters are located at Kakkanad . The district includes Kochi, also known as mosques . The district includes
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3008-632: Is particularly emphasized". In another 2008 paper, Osella and Osella states that "Onam is not celebrated by Muslims" and the Muslims who do prepare an Onam feast have an air of a "daring secret". Some Muslim Indian politicians light a traditional vilakku (oil lamp), while others have refused to light such a lamp at Onam events declaring it to be a Hindu tradition and against the teachings of Islam. Muslim daily newspapers and other publications have condemned Muslim ministers who participate in Onam traditions. Various sections of Islam have raised concerns about
3102-437: Is primarily agrarian in nature. Rice is the principal crop cultivated in the wetlands. The district is the largest producer of nutmeg and pineapple in the state: more than 55% of pineapples produced in the state is cultivated in the district. Rubber is the most cultivated plantation crop in the district and the district is the second-largest producer of rubber in the state behind Kottayam. Other important crops cultivated in
3196-545: Is remembered with a nine-course vegetarian Onasadya feast. The name Thrikkakara is originated from 'Thiru-kaal-kara' meaning 'place of the holy foot'. The main deity at Thrikkakara Temple is Vamana, the smaller temple to the side has Shiva as the deity. Vamana temple is known as 'Vadakkum Devar' and the Shiva temple is known as 'Tekkum Devar'. A number of subsidiary deities have been installed at Thrikkakara Temple . The 1961 census report on Onam festival states : Though
3290-419: Is saved. Prahlada's grandson, Mahabali, came to power by defeating the gods ( Devas ) and taking over the three worlds. According to Vaishnavism , the defeated Devas approached Vishnu for help in their battle with Mahabali. Vishnu refused to join the gods in violence against Mahabali because Mahabali was a good ruler and his own devotee. Mahabali, after his victory over the gods, declared that he would perform
3384-486: Is similar to Rangoli which is made of powders of various colours and is popular in North India. The traditional ritual of laying pookkalam (floral Rangoli) starts on Atham day. The pookkalam on this day is called Athapoo, and it is relatively small in size. The size of the pookkalam grows in size progressively with each day of the Onam festival. Only yellow flowers will be used on Atham with only one circular layer made and
3478-587: Is situated on the east side of the road to Naduvattom just after the main junction. There is also a Government Ayurveda Hospital on the south side of the road to Malayattoor just after a stream on the east end of Neeleeswaram. Moreover, there are various government primary health care centres in various interior parts. Traditional festivals like Onam are celebrated with great enthusiasm. Christmas and New Year are also celebrated with great pomp and show. Temples and churches celebrate their anniversaries, popularly known as perunal , with great fervour. Under
3572-677: Is surrounded by the Thrissur District to the north, the Idukki District to the east, Alappuzha and Kottayam districts to the south and the Laccadive Sea to the west. The Anamalais occupy a large part of the district, consisting of the forest areas around Pooyamkutty and the Idamalayar Dam . The range also extends into Thrissur, Palakkad, and Idukki districts, as well as Coimbatore and Tiruppur districts of Tamil Nadu. The district
3666-416: Is the regional seat of Syriac Orthodox Church in India, and is where Saint Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, Malayattoor is located. The eight-day lent (Ettunombu) festival at St Mary's Jacobite Syrian Valiyapally, Thamarachal attracts many people from all over the state. St. George Orthodox Syrian Church at Kadamattam near Muvattupuzha is very old and was founded by Mar Abo Syrian Metropolitan in
3760-563: Is the Pallipetta junction and a small stream of water flowing to Periyar . By the side of this stream, there is a very ancient pillar marking the boundary between erstwhile princely states of Travancore and Cochin . The residents call this pillar the Kothi-Stone. From the Pallipetta junction, there is a road to the south leading to Pallikkadavu which is a small ferry leading to Cheranalloor St. Xaviers Church. The road leading to north goes to
3854-696: Is the metaphor of the Kerala sun and summer that precedes the Onam. According to Roshen Dalal, the story of Mahabali is important to Onam in Kerala, but similar Mahabali legends are significant in the region of Balia and Bawan in Uttar Pradesh, Bharuch in Gujarat, and Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra. The story is significant not because Mahabali's rule ended, but it emphasises the Hindu belief in cyclical nature of events, that no individual, no ruler and nothing lasts forever, except
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3948-595: The Aranmula Uthrattadhi Boat Race and the Nehru Trophy Boat Race . Numerous oarsmen row huge snake-shaped boats. Men and women come from far and near to watch and cheer the snake boat race through the water. This event is particularly featured on the Pampa River , considered sacred and Kerala equivalent of Ganges River . As a tribute to the traditional snake boat race, a similar snake boat race
4042-498: The 2018 floods , Neeleeswaram was one of the villages that was not severely affected. Only a small portion in the east of Neeleeswaram was badly affected while most of Neeleeswaram experienced only waterlogging. Glps Neeleeswaram is a Primary only School in Kalady Village of Angamaly. It was established in the year 1950 and the school management is Department of Education. It's a Malayalam medium, co-educational school. This region
4136-480: The Anamalais is reached. Ernakulam district is the richest district in Kerala and is the biggest commercial centre in the state of Kerala . It contributes the most to the state exchequer in terms of GSVA and tax revenues. It has the highest literacy rate as well as the highest per capita income in the state, along with having the greatest number of commercialised banks, startups and large-scale industries & MSMEs in
4230-569: The Köppen climate classification , Neeeleeswaram features a tropical monsoon climate ( Am ). Neeleeswaram's proximity to the equator along with its coastal location results in little seasonal temperature variation, with moderate to high levels of humidity. Annual temperatures range between 23 and 31 °C (73 and 88 °F) with the record high being 38 °C (100 °F), and record low 17 °C (63 °F). Drought-like conditions might be prevalent (very rarely) during late February and March. During
4324-549: The Syro-Malabar Catholic Major Archeparchy of Ernakulam–Angamaly . This road, leads to another village called Naduvattom. Naduvattom is a happening place in the Malayattoor -Neeleeswaram Grama Panchayat . It is a stone's throw from Neeleeswaram junction which houses the Panchayat office. It can also be approached from Chandrapura junction for those coming from Angamaly and Northern Kerala. Naduvattom
4418-405: The 'Kerala Matta' parboiled rice preferred in Kerala. In hotels and temples, the number of curries and dishes may go up to 30. The importance of the feast to Kerala's Onam celebration culture is captured in the famous Malayalam proverb " Kaanam Vittum Onam Unnanam " which means "One must have the Onam lunch even by selling one's property if need be." The Travancore-style Onasadya is renowned to be
4512-784: The 5th century A.D. He brought a cross from Persia, which is preserved in the church. The festival at the Latin church of Vallarpadam on 24 September attracts people belonging to all religions. The icon of Virgin Mary in this church is credited with many miracles. St. George's Syro-Malabar Catholic Forane Church, Edappally was founded in 593 A.D. Important pilgrimage sites in Ernakulam are Koonan Kurish St George Orthodox Pilgrim church, Mattancherry ; Vadakken Paravoor St Thomas Catholic Church, Malayattoor Pally; and Mor Thoman Jacobite Church , Kothamangalam ; and Thrikkunnathu St Mary's Seminary Church, Aluva . The relics of Gregorios Abdul Jaleel are preserved at
4606-472: The Roshni project, which aims to provide Malayalam education to migrant children. It supported 1,265 migrant workers' children from lower primary to high school. There are two revenue divisions: Fort Kochi and Muvattupuzha. The municipal corporation is in Kochi. The district has the most taluks in the state. The district is divided by two revenue divisions with seven taluks. Interestingly, Ernakulam district has
4700-598: The St. Thomas Jacobite church North Paravur . Thousands of pilgrims from Kerala culminate on 27 April for the Dhukrono of the Saint. The Feast of Eldho Mor Baselios is celebrated in the tomb church Mor Thoman Church at Kothamangalam every year on 2 and 3 October. The Feast of Paulose Mar Athanasius on 26 January at Thrikkunnathu St Mary's Seminary Church, Aluva , where he is entombed, also attracts thousands. Gheevarghese Mar Gregorios of Parumala , also known as Parumala Thirumeni ,
4794-560: The Thrikkakara temple, meeting and greeting his people. In contemporary times, this a state-supported event. The parade floats traditionally feature scenes from epics such as the Mahabharata and the Ramayana . Additionally, some floats include themes from the Bible as well as current themes thereby highlighting unity and harmony. The procession path historically has been from Tripunithura to
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#17328581060884888-470: The Vamana temple is accepted as the main temple at the elite level, the local people consider the Shiva temple as the more important one. They believe that Shiva was the 'Kuladeivam' (family deity) of Mahabali and that there was no Vamana temple at that time. The palace of Mahabali was situated at the place where the Vamana temple is at present. After the fall of Mahabali, his palace was destroyed and later on Vamana
4982-486: The Vamanamoorthy Temple in Thrikkakara, Ernakulam district. The temple is dedicated to Vishnu in his Vamana (dwarf) avatar. After arrival at the temple, the marchers offer a prayer. The floral Rangoli, known as Onapookkalam , Athapookkalam or just Pookkalam , is made out of the gathered blossoms with several varieties of flowers of differing tints pinched up into little pieces to design and decorate patterns on
5076-468: The axe descended, creating the land of Kerala. The Onam festival, according to this legend, celebrates Parashurama's creation of Kerala by marking those days as the new year. The legend and worship of Parashurama is attested in texts and epigraphs dated to about the 2nd century CE. Onam is a "popular major Hindu festival in Kerala", states Christine Frost, but one that is also celebrated by other communities with "much zest alongside Hindus". The festival
5170-501: The banks of river Periyar) in Aluva attracts people from around the country. St. Mary's Orthodox Syrian Cathedral, Piravom is believed to be founded in 405 A.D. and was the headquarters of Archdeacon and St Thomas until the 18th century. Adi Shankaracharya was born in Kalady , which is considered to be a major pilgrimage centre for Hindus around the world. Kallil Kshethram is a famous Jain temple near Perumbavoor . Puthencruz
5264-486: The banks, but in the summer season, they generally go dry and narrow. The Periyar is stretched over a length of 229 km (142 mi). The flora of this district is tropical. The heavy rainfall combined with moderate temperatures and fertile soil support abundant vegetation. Many of the common plants are found in the coastal area, which forms the lowland region. The midland region is occupied by coconut palms, paddy, tapioca, pepper, pineapple and pulses. The lower slopes of
5358-623: The celebration of Onam by Muslims . However some Muslims observe Onam anyway, considering its celebrations and rituals as a cultural practice. Onam falls in the month of Chingam , which is the first month according to the Malayalam Calendar . The celebrations mark the Malayalam New Year, are spread over ten days, and conclude with Thiruvonam. The ten days are sequentially known as Atham, Chithira, Chodhi, Vishakam, Anizham, Thriketa, Moolam, Pooradam, Uthradam and Thiruvonam. The first and
5452-491: The design is kept simple. Statues or figurines of Mahabali and Vamana are also installed at the entrance of each house on this day. Traditionally, Atthapookalams included flowers endemic to Kerala and the Dashapushpam (10-flowers), but nowadays all varieties of flowers are used. Earthen mounds, which look somewhat like square pyramids, representing Mahabali and Vamana are placed in the dung-plastered courtyards in front of
5546-406: The district are tapioca , black pepper , areca nut , coconut , turmeric , banana , and plantain . Ernakulam is the first district in India to have 100 percent literacy by 1990. In fact Kochi has the highest literacy rate for any city in the country with over 20 lakhs population. Pothanikkad is the first village in India that achieved 100 percent literacy according to state literacy programme
5640-401: The district via rivers and lagoons. Onam Onam ( IPA: [oːɳɐm] ) is an annual harvest and Hindu cultural festival celebrated mostly by the people of Kerala . A major annual event for Keralites , it is the official festival of the state and includes a spectrum of cultural events. Onam commemorates the return of the generous daitya king Mahabali after he
5734-463: The district. Kochi Metro runs in Kochi. Ernakulam district has two airports: Naval airport in W.island (Old Cochin airport) and Cochin International Airport (CIAL). CIAL is the fourth largest airport in the country after Mumbai , Delhi , and Chennai , and serves International passengers. Ernakulam lies in the flat delta region of the Periyar and Moovattupuzha rivers. Water transport is prominent in
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#17328581060885828-415: The entire city of Kochi is a strong public demand. According to the 2018 Statistics Report , Ernakulam has a population of 3,427,659. The 2011 census of India reports that the district is ranked 104th most populous in India out of 640. The district has a population density of 1,072 inhabitants per square kilometre (2,780/sq mi). Its population growth rate in 2001–2011 was 5.69%. Ernakulam has
5922-521: The first municipality in Indian subcontinent , which got dissolved when the Dutch authority got weaker in 18th century. In 1896, the Maharaja of Cochin initiated local administration by forming a town council in Ernakulam. Initially, The district's headquarters were located in the portion of the city known as Ernakulam , which gave the district its name; the headquarters was relocated afterwards to Kakkanad . In
6016-521: The first saint of Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church from India was born and brought up in Mulanthuruthy . The three major national highways passing through Ernakulam are the Cochin-Mumbai Highway ( NH 66 ), Salem-Kanyakumari ( NH 47 part of NSEW corridor ), and Cochin-Dhanushkodi highway ( NH 49 ). Ernakulam has 17 railway stations. The Ernakulam Junction , Ernakulam Town and Aluva are
6110-399: The floor, particularly at entrances and temple premises like a flower mat. Lamps are arranged in the middle or edges. It is a work of religious art, typically the team initiative of girls and women, who accomplish it with a delicate touch and a personal artistic sense of tone and blending. When completed, a miniature pandal (umbrella) hung with little festoons is erected over it. The pookkalam
6204-475: The flowers again shoot up, and the trees bloom, in a word, this season is the same as that which Europeans call spring. This festival seems, therefore, to have been instituted for the purpose of soliciting from the Gods a happy and fruitful year. It continues eight days and during that time the Indians are accustomed to adorn their houses with flowers and daub them over with cow's dung; because the cow, as already observed,
6298-527: The grandson of Vishnu devotee Prahlada . This links the festival to the Puranic story of Prahlada of Holika fame in Hinduism, who was the son of Hiranyakashipu. Prahlada, despite being born to a demonic Asura father who hated Vishnu, rebelled against his father's persecution of people and worshipped Vishnu. Hiranyakashipu tries to kill his son Prahlada, but is slain by Vishnu in his Narasimha avatar , Prahlada
6392-400: The highland region have teak and rubber. Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is located at the centre of Kochi . It covers 2.74 ha (6.8 acres), supports many species of mangroves and is a nesting ground for a variety of migratory birds . The Managalavanam is called the "green lung of Kochi", considering its role in controlling the city's air pollution. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary lies on
6486-459: The highland that consist of seaboard, plains, and hills and forests respectively. 20 percent of the total area are lowlands. The forests in the eastern part of the district are mostly remote, forming a part of the Anamalais . The highest peak is the Anamudi . The midland consists mainly of plain land and a group of islands that naturally drain water via backwaters and canals. The hilly or eastern portion
6580-474: The house along with the Pookalam, and beautifully decorated with flowers. All over Kerala, Pookalam competitions are a common sight on Onam day. Traditional dance forms including Thiruvathira , Kummattikali , Pulikali , Thumbi Thullal , Onam Kali and others. Thiruvathira Kali is a women's dance performed in a circle around a lamp. Kummattikali is a colourful-mask dance. In Thrissur , festivities include
6674-498: The king's sole wish to visit his kingdom once every year. This homecoming of Mahabali is celebrated as Onam in Kerala every year. The date of Onam celebration is based on the Panchangam , and falls on the 22nd nakshatra Thiruvonam in the month Chingam of Malayalam calendar , which in Gregorian calendar falls between August–September. The festival has ancient origins and is intricately linked with Hindu mythology . Literary and epigraphical evidence suggests that Onam has
6768-412: The largest metropolitan region of the state: Greater Cochin . Ernakulam district yields the highest revenue and the largest number of industries in the state. Ernakulam is the second most populous district in Kerala, after Malappuram (out of 14 districts ). The district also hosts the highest number of international and domestic tourists in Kerala state. The most commonly spoken language in Ernakulam
6862-445: The last day are particularly important in Kerala and to Malayalee communities elsewhere. The Atham day is marked with the start of festivities at Thrikkakara Vamanamoorthy Temple, Kochi . This Vishnu temple is considered as the focal centre of Onam and the abode of Mahabali, with the raising of the festival flag. Parades are held, which are colourful and depict the elements of Kerala culture with floats and tableaux. Other days have
6956-569: The major recreation centres. The All Kerala Badminton Open Tournament is conducted by Sahrdaya club in January every year. Onam activities like tug of war and indoor games like chess , carrom are organized under the club every year. Malayattoor-Neeleeswaram Grama Panchayat had a total population of 13,915 of which 7,080 are males and 6,835 are females as of census report of 2001. Most people follow either Catholic or Srinarayana tradition of beliefs and they are significantly peaceful minded with
7050-466: The major stations. The other stations are Angamaly , Thripunithura , Edapally , Mulamthuruthy , Cochin Harbour Terminus , Karakutty, Chowara , Kalamassery , Nettoor , Kumbalam , Mattancherry H. , Chottanikkara road, Kanjiramattom and Piravom road. The rail routes travel via Thrissur , Kottayam, Cochin H.T., Alappuzha , and Vallarpadam. The Angamaly-Erumely Sabarimala route passes through
7144-458: The most disciplined and tradition-bound. The Kurichians tribe of Parambikkulam celebrate Onam as a festival for eating new grains. Just before Onam, they go for a community hunt and the game bagged during the hunt are distributed among participants and consumed in family feasts. The feasts are held on Uthradam and Thiruvonam. Their feast also include fish and meat. Normally, the largest chunk of Onam celebrations ends by Thiruvonam. However,
7238-442: The most municipalities in the state. A criticism that has been centered around this fact is that despite municipalities like Aluva, Kalamassery, Thrikkakara, Maradu, Tripunithura and Eloor becoming assimilated into Kochi city, they still exist as individual municipalities instead of being under Kochi Corporation . Surprisingly the corporation has not amended its limits for over half a century, since 1967 to be precise. The corporation
7332-454: The northern bank of the Periyar River and covers about 25 km (10 sq mi). It was founded by ornithologist Salim Ali . The sanctuary is 80 km (50 miles) from Kochi. Birds found here include falcons, jungle fowl, water hens, and hornbills . The flora of this area consists mainly of plantations of teak , rosewood , and mahogany. Further on the road, Pooyamkutty forest of
7426-478: The occasion of Onam, called Onakkodi . During the Onam, Keralite Hindus install an image of Thrikkakara Appan or Onatthappan (Vishnu in the form of Vamana) in their home just as Hindus install images or murtis of Lord Ganesha on the Ganesha Chaturthi festival elsewhere. Many lamps are lit in Hindu temples of Kerala during this celebration. A palmyra tree is erected in front of temples and surrounded by
7520-442: The political, commercial and cultural capitals, Thiruvananthapuram , Kochi and Thrissur , are lit up with lights and fabulous displays of fireworks. Sumptuous Onam Sadya feasts are prepared. In Thrikkakara temple, a mega-feast is conducted, which is open to the public and is attended by more than twenty thousand people. The Vallamkali (the snake boat race) is another event that is synonymous with Onam. Well-known races include
7614-416: The population of Ernakulam District. Government of Kerala have also marked Kochi UA as the only "first order UA" in the state, which has its influence spread across the entire state unlike the other smaller cities. The district also houses another smaller urban agglomeration – Kothamangalam , which has an area of 81.42 km housing over 1,14,639 people. The towns of Kothamangalam and Muvattupuzha form
7708-462: The sea route to the Kingdom of Cochin and left their impressions on the town. The port at Kozhikode held superior economic and political position in medieval Kerala coast, while Kannur , Kollam , and Kochi , were commercially important secondary ports, where the traders from various parts of the world would gather. In 1664, the municipality of Fort Kochi was established by Dutch Malabar , making it
7802-415: The state starts off with a grand procession at Thrippunithura near Kochi called Atthachamayam, also referred to as Thripunithura Athachamayam . The parade features decorated elephants marching, drum beats and other music, folk art forms, floats and colourfully dressed people with masks. In Kerala's history, the Kochi king used to head a grand military procession in full ceremonial robes from his palace to
7896-412: The state. Its M.G. Road is home to some of Kerala 's most prestigious enterprises. Kochi is also the headquarters of some large companies like Lulu Group International , Federal Bank , Geojit , V-Guard , and Muthoot . The sea along the entire coast of the district and its backwaters are the habitat of various kinds of fish that supply both marine and inland fisheries. The eastern part of Ernakulam
7990-415: The third pace, Mahabali offered his head for Vishnu to step on, an act that Vishnu accepted as evidence of Mahabali's devotion. Vishnu granted him a boon, by which Mahabali could visit again, once every year, the lands and people he previously ruled. This revisit marks the festival of Onam, as a reminder of the virtuous rule and his humility in keeping his promise before Vishnu. The last day of Mahabali's stay
8084-453: The trade and commercial activities in the district. After the state of Israel was formed in 1945, the entire community made aliyah to Israel in the 1950s. Today they number 8000 in Israel but very few Jews remain in the district. After a direct flight service was established between Kochi and Tel Aviv they have retained ties with the state with annual visits and gatherings. Ernakulam also has
8178-512: The two days following Thiruvonam are also celebrated as Third and Fourth Onam. The third Onam, called Avvittom marks the preparations for King Mahabali's return ascension to heavens. The main ritual of the day is to take the Onathappan statue which was placed in the middle of every Pookkalam during the past 10 days and immerse it in nearby rivers or sea. The Pookkalam will be cleaned and removed after this ritual. People buy and wear new clothes for
8272-435: The various Ancient Indian legends. A famous venue for this is at Valluvanad which is associated with the growth of Kathakali, and Cheruthuruthy , where Kerala Kalamandalam is located. Pulikali , also known as Kaduvakali is a common sight during the Onam season. This dance showcases performers painted like tigers in bright yellow, red and black, who dance to the beats of instruments like Chenda and Thakil. This folk art
8366-454: The virtues and self-understanding that overcomes all sorrow. An alternate tale behind Onam relates to Parashurama , an incarnation of Vishnu who is credited in Hinduism to have created the Western Ghats and Kerala. According to this legend, Vishnu observed the kings of the Kshatriya (warrior) waging constant war on one another and growing arrogant. He assumed the avatar of Parashurama,
8460-410: The warrior sage, in the era of the king Kartavirya Arjuna . This king persecuted and oppressed the people, the sages, and the gods. Following the murder of his father Jamadagni , Parashurama swore vengeance against the king and the warrior class, slaying them as he travelled the world. When all the oppressors had been vanquished, he threw his axe into the ocean. The ocean retreated from the region where
8554-474: The year 1998, Kuttampuzha village was added to the district from Idukki district following which the district got a political boundary with neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu . There is no interstate road that connects the district with the neighbouring state through this border. The Ernakulam district covers an area of 3,068 km (1,185 sq mi) on the Western Coastal Plains of India. It
8648-549: Was banished to the netherworld by Vamana (the fifth avatar of Hindu deity Vishnu ). According to the Hindu legends , after Indra (the king of the devas ) is defeated by Mahabali (the king of the asuras ), the devas ultimately seek refuge in Vishnu , who agrees to restore Indra to power. To do so, Vishnu incarnates as a dwarf priest called Vamana. The king Mahabali (himself a devotee of Vishnu) conducts ritual prayers , one of which
8742-529: Was installed on that spot by the saint Kapila. According to Nanditha Krishna , a simpler form of this legend, one without Mahabali, is found in the Rigveda and the Vedic text Shatapatha Brahmana where a solar deity is described with powers of Vishnu. This story likely grew over time, and is in part allegorical, where Bali is a metaphor for thanksgiving offering after a bounty of rice harvest during monsoon, and Vishnu
8836-402: Was the largest in area and population when it was formed, and all these regions were panchayaths back then. Instead of adding them to the corporation when these regions started developing due to the urban expansion of Kochi city, they were made into separate municipalities thus largely handicapping the corporation. Now the call to expand these outdated limits for a better unified administration for
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