Where Wood is Gold and Elephants are Citizens

Vidushi

Where Wood is Gold and Elephants are Citizens

The Nilambur Kovilakam stands as a significant heritage landmark in Kerala. As the House of Power of the Nilambur Royal Family, this sprawling estate accommodates several families. Constructed in the traditional architectural style of Kerala, the Kovilakam has been transformed into a heritage hotel that honours the esteemed legacy of the Royal family.

A bungalow in Nilambur By നിരക്ഷരൻ at Malayalam Wikipedia, CC BY 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=14795305

The Nilambur Kovilakam is renowned for its distinctive architectural elements, including the Padippura, which is only opened during festivities or special occasions. Within the compound, the 300-year-old Puthiya Kovilakam stands as one of the oldest Kovilakams. Serving as the ancestral residence of the landowners and kings, the entire household is fed from a single kitchen. Initially, the children of the family received homeschooling until the 5th standard. Subsequently, a school, the Manavedan High School, was established to cater to their education and was later handed over to the government.

The Vettakkorumakan Utsav, or festival, is celebrated annually. On the fourth day of the Utsav, a Sarvani Sadhya, or feast, is organized, which is attended by the Adivasis residing in the vicinity. The leftover food is taken home, dried, and used as a medicine until the next Utsav.

The Nilambur Kovilakam stands as a testament to the rich history and culture of the region. Whether it is drawing people together for worship, tourism, cultural events, appreciation of its exquisite woodwork, or reminiscing about its glorious past and legends, the Kovilakam has successfully preserved the memories of the royal families that once resided within its walls, along with their noteworthy contributions. Undoubtedly, the Nilambur Kovilakam holds a significant place in Kerala's heritage.

Initially believed to be situated near the Chaliyar River, known as Moolasthanam, it was later renamed Moosrambi, and subsequently, the present-day palace, the Puthiya Kovilakam, was constructed. The Vettakkorumakan Temple was also built during the same period. The Kovilakam is estimated to have owned approximately 100,000 acres of land, of which 30,000 were allocated to the Birla Group for the Gwalior Rayons Factory.

During its prime, the Nilambur Kovilakam housed nearly 72 elephants, with 17 elephants having ration cards. These elephants were employed in the teak mills, and their diet was certified by a doctor, resulting in the issuance of ration cards to fulfil their dietary needs.

The Kovilakam is also renowned for its unique furniture, such as the converted sofa that was originally used for storing curry and the dinghy-shaped container modified into a couch. Moreover, the Puthiya Kovilakam features a built base surrounded by four pillars where the Kovilakam weddings used to take place. The ceilings of the Kovilakam are constructed using mixed forest wood, and the wide circular pillars serve as a captivating attraction.

The Nilambur Kovilakam, located in the town of Nilambur, is a renowned historical landmark with a significant association with the famous Nilambur teak. Situated in the heart of the town, this palace is surrounded by a compound that accommodates approximately 60 families. Due to its historical significance and cultural heritage, prior permission is required to enter the premises of the palace.

The Kovilakam has a fascinating history dating back to the mid-13th century when the Samuthiri of Kozhikode entrusted a family from his lineage to manage his wealth and estates in Nilambur, as well as safeguard his territory. Over time, these families from Thacharakkal and Edavannappara formed the rulers who resided in the Nilambur Kovilakam. Many of the advancements and natural resources that Nilambur possesses today can be attributed to the reign of the Nilambur Kovilakam.