Paliath Achan
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Paliath Achan is the name given to the oldest male member of the Paliam family (Malayalam: പാലിയം), a Nair family from the Indian state of Kerala that figured prominently in the history of the region. The Paliath Achans were hereditary prime ministers to the Rajah of Kochi from 1632 to 1809. Paliath Achans have also figured in many battles against colonial rulers such as the British, and staged many a rebellion for the benefits of the downtrodden in society.
The family home (tharavadu) is located in the village of Chendamangalam, in Ernakulam district. Paliam was the biggest joint Hindu family in Kerala until its partition in 1952. The deed for the partition, which was considered the biggest deed of Travancore-Cochin, was registered in 1956.
As of 1999, there were 443 members. The family follows the marumakkathayam, or matrilineal system. Female members of the family are wed primarily to Namboothiri Brahmins, members of the Cochin Royal family, members of other Royal Families of erstwhile Travancore and Malabar areas, and members of other prominent Nair tharavads.
Origins
The Paliam family is descended from the Villarvattom Royal family in Chendamangalam. The family traces its lineage to Kunjikaavu and Kochukutty, two sisters from the town of Elankunnapuzha who were married into Villarvattom. All members of the Paliam family fall into one of two lineages.The tharavadu
The main family tharavadu (Nalikettu ) is approximately 450 years old, and is maintained by the Paliam Trust. The Kovilakam houses a large number of artifacts including ancient documents, religious sacraments, swords, rifles and gifts brought by foreign dignitaries. Several other buildings, like the Paliath Achan's Kovilakam (which was built by the Dutch) exist adjacent to the tharavadu. All the buildings date between 250 to 300 years.Significance in Kerala history
Paliam satyagraha was a movement in 1947-48 to allow entry for Hindus of lower castes in the roads surrounding the Paliam family home in Chendamangalam and the temples. The success of this and similar movements led to the temples in Kochi being opened for all Hindus in 1948.See also
External links
References
- P.J.Cherian : Perspectives on Kerala history – The Second Millennium
- Akhilavijnanakosam Malayalam encyclopaedia, Vol.4, D.C. Books (1990)
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