Vidyaasmat Paradevata!
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Kodungallur Kovilakam is the palace (Kovilakam) of Kodungallur royal family. It was also known in the past by the name 'Padinjattedathu swaroopam'. It is one of the major kovilakams in Kerala. It is situated in Thrissur district in Kerala. While rulers across the world were caught in continuous warfare in perpetual quest to increase their frontiers of control in the land, rulers in Kerala devoted quite much of their attention in fostering art, literature, culture and knowledge. They gave importance to peace and prosperity rather than to continuous warfare and constant unsettlement; that is not to say that there was no warfare or challenges to their authority at all but they were far less,in comparison. No wonder, Kerala stands out even today as a model of peaceful co-existence of diverse culture. Consequently, history of Kerala is not so much about conquests but rather about evolution of a culture enriched by social interactions, including those as old as trade relations with ancient Greek and Roman culture. 'Vidyasmat Paradevatha!' has been Kodungallur Kovilakam's motto. 'Vidyasmat Paradevatha!' translates to mean knowledge is our Supreme divinity!. True to their motto 'Vidyasmat Paradevatha!', knowledge, culture, art and values were nurtured rather than physical might of warfare. Kodungallur Kovilakam is remembered now, not so much for the conquests won but for contributions that has made India richer in terms of art, literature and culture. In due recognition of this contribution, Kodungallur Kovilakam came to be known as Gurukulam (centre of learning lie Nalanda and Takshasila) and Scholars from all over Kerala used to live in the palaces and study Sanskrit and Vedic science. There are many instances where scholars of Kodungallur Kovilakam actively educated under people from under-privileged community, even against the conventions and practice of those times. It has been always in the forefront of social transformation, effectively blending modern lifestyle even while holding onto time-tested social and human values. Kodungallur Kovilakam has two branches called Chirackal Kovilakam and Puthen Kovilakam | ||||||
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| Just as with other royal families in Kerala, there is not much written information about Kodungallur Kovilakam, except for very recent past. However, much of its history is part of folklore. This web site is a humble attempt to consolidate information scattered around and preserve for the benefit of posterity, with the hope that a rich culture based on social and human values is not lost in the onslaught of fast pace of modern life and new social order. Any kind of guidance and support in improving an authenticity would be very helpful. We request support, especially in terms of information and specific write up , from all members and well wishers of Kodungallur Kovilakam. |
