History

Kodamthuruth Grama Panchayat – History & Overview

Kodamthuruth Grama Panchayat, located in Cherthala Taluk of Alappuzha district under Pattanakkad Block, was formed in 1953. The Panchayat has an area of 10.81 square kilometers and currently consists of 18 wards.

The geographical structure of Kodamthuruth is winding and irregular in shape. This feature is locally referred to as “Kodiya.” It is situated like an island protruding into water bodies such as Ulaveypu Kayal (part of Vembanad Lake), Kurumbikayal, and canals like Valletthodu, Pozhithodu, Karethodu, and Thayyilthodu. It is believed that the name “Kodamthuruth” originated from the term “Kodiya Thurutthu.”

Due to the lack of sufficient historical records and preserved materials, only limited information about the village’s history has been documented.

Social reform movements led by great leaders like Sree Narayana Guru, Ayyankali, and Pandit Karuppan played a major role in bringing renaissance and national awareness to the village. These movements took root locally and contributed to social reforms, struggles against untouchability, and participation in the freedom movement. The people organized themselves to fight social injustices and continued progressing from these efforts.

Like other parts of Kerala, caste dominance existed here as well. Local landlords and feudal lords protected upper-caste interests. They acquired low-lying lands from the rulers and forced lower-caste people to work like slaves. Land was measured based on depth, and separate lands were assigned for temples. Marginalized people were often relocated after improving the land they lived on. Oral history also mentions that punishments, including executions, were carried out in certain areas.

World War II Period

During this period, the village faced severe food shortages. Bajra, maize, groundnut cake, and tapioca powder were common food items. Epidemics such as cholera, smallpox, typhoid, and malaria were widespread, causing many deaths. Many people from the village joined military service in Assam. This was one of the most difficult periods in the village’s history.

Historical Landmarks

  • Boundary Stone: A boundary stone separating the princely states of Cochin and Travancore is located in Ward 1 (Neendakara). It bears inscriptions on both sides and still exists today. A police camp and local guards were once stationed here. Smuggling of goods like tobacco, sugar, jaggery, rice, and copra took place through nearby canals.
  • Lamp Post Remains: Remains of old lamp structures can be seen in Ward 8 and near the western side of Kuthiathode canal.
  • Check Post (Chowk): Remains of an old check post can be found west of Kuthiathode market.
  • Pound (Cattle Shelter): Located behind Changaram U.P. School, this was used in the past to keep stray cattle. Owners had to pay a fine to reclaim them.

In earlier times, kerosene lamps were used for lighting village pathways at night. Vehicles powered by coal gas, known as “West Coast” and “Syndicate,” operated in this region. These vehicles had open sides and wooden plank seating.

There was also a boat service between Kuthiathode and Cherthala, which was once used to transport soldiers to Vayalar.

The Flood of 1099 (Malayalam Era)

This flood severely affected the village. Most residents were forced to relocate temporarily as water remained stagnant for about two weeks. Paddy cultivation was completely destroyed. However, after the floodwaters receded, fertile silt deposits improved soil productivity. There was a severe shortage of seeds, and farmers had to bring Pokkali seeds from outside for cultivation.

Origin of the Name “Kodamthuruth”

The name is believed to have originated from the word “Kodiya Thurutthu,” referring to its winding geographical formation surrounded by backwaters and canals.

Another belief suggests that the name evolved from “Odamthuruth,” as boats once traveled through Thayyil canal carrying temple dignitaries (Azhvancheri Thamprakkal) who visited local households. Over time, this name may have transformed into “Kodamthuruth.”