PALIAM NALUKETTU MUSEUM

HISTORY
Chendamangalam – remnants of a rich heritage
For those who treasure unspoilt nature, have a sense of history and reverence for cultures
that have co-existed and survived for ages, there is one place that combines all these. An
enclave of unadulterated, near-pristine beauty and quietude, dense with the remnants of
a rich heritage that dates back almost to the beginnings of Kerala’s history.
Chendamangalam the name may have evolved from Jayanthamangalam or
Choornimangalam - is a rare geographical combination of rivers, seven islets, a hillock, and
an expanse of green plains. Situated 4 kilometres from North Paravur, in the north-west
of Ernakulam district, the region is surrounded by rivers on three sides and has the
confluence of the Periyar and the Chalakkudiyar off its eastern boundary.
Chendamangalam was the abode of the famous Achans of Paliam who were hereditary
Prime Ministers to the Maharajahs of Cochin from 1663 to 1809.
Paliam - Origin
For a Malayalee, Paliathachan is no strange name. He is a historical figure, now and then
appearing in the annals of Kerala from the 16th to the 19th century. As the old saying
goes, “Kochiyil pathi Paliam” (half of erstwhile Cochin State belongs to Paliam). It held
extensive lands in the erstwhile Kochi Rajyam (Kingdom of Kochi).
Today the members of this prestigious family live at Chendamangalam and in many other
parts of the country as well as abroad. Their rich and historic tradition keeps the members
of the family close together, even today. This kinship is unique.
The origin of the Paliam Family is shrouded in mystery. But it is certain that it is linked with
the Cochin Royal Family or Perumpadappu Swarupam. It is believed that when the last
Perumal departed, the Chera kingdom of Mahodayapuram split, and one segment left for
Vanneri near Chavakkad. Together with it, went the powerful feudal chieftain
Paliathachan. Until recently Paliam Parambu was found here. Most likely, Paliathachan
shifted with the Perumbadappu Swarupam to Thiruvanchikulam, consequent upon the
Zamorins invasion of the land. The big flood of 1341 brought Perumpadappu Swarupam
to Cochin. Probably Paliathachan also moved with it. Records show that it is with the
arrival of the Portuguese that both Kochi Raja and Paliathachan shot into prominence. At
the opening of the 17th century, Paliathachan received extensive lands from the
Villarvattom Raja, his father. In the meantime, he is said to have rendered some services
to the Kochi Raja. In recognition of these services, he was made the Chief of Vypeen Island.
Before long, the Raja made him the hereditary Prime Minister of the State.
Some of the critical moments in which Paliathachan wisely guided the Raja and valiantly
served the state are undoubtedly memorable. The name of three Achans add lustre to the
history of erstwhile Kochirajyam. They are Komi Achan I, Komi Achan II and Govindan
Valiachan
Komi Achan-I (1654-1684)
It was Komi Achan I who resisted the Portuguese attempt to impose their power on
Kochirajyam. There was a serious dispute regarding the succession to the throne of Kochi
at this time. Komiachan firmly stood for the legitimate cause of “Moothathavazhi”. In this
he was supported by Samoothiri. The Portuguese were against this. They argued for the
cause of :Elayathavazhi”. Achan, now, realised the need for help from a naval power like
the Dutch. So he and a prince together set sail to Colombo. He met the Dutch forces,
arrived in Kochi, fought and drove out the Portuguese. Kochi came under Dutch power.
Now began a Paliam-Dutch friendship.
Komi Achan-II (1750-1779)
Komi Achan II served the Raja as Prime Minister for 30 long years. He was very handsome
and highly adventurous. During his tenure, Kochi faced severe challenges from
Thiruvithanikoor, the Samoothiri and also Hyder All from Mysore. In the battle with
Thiruvithamkoor, Achan even became a prisoner. During this time he managed to form a
friendship with the Elayaraja and this later proved so valuable. When Samoothiri’s forces
entered Kochi and even Thrissur fell into his hands, Achan diplomatically got the Raja of
Thiruvithamkoor to sign a treaty of mutual help with him. This took place at Sucheendram
in 1761. This was the historic “Achan Pramanam”. This resulted in Thiruvanthamkoor
forces joining Achan and driving out Samoothiri. Achan also played the role of a negotiator
again. When Hyder Ali threatened Malabar and Kochi, the Raja agreed to pay a tribute so
that Kochi could be saved. The amount was too big and Komi Achan was sent to
Seringapatnam for negotiating with Mysore. Komi Achan made such an impression on the
Dutch and even Hyder Ali, that on his death, both recorded their high appreciation of
Achan.
Govindan Valiachan (1779-1825)
Govindan Valiachan was Prime Minister only for 3 years from 1806-1809. In 1806, after
the death of Sakthan Thampuran. Achan emerged as the de facto ruler of Kochi. The Raja
of that time was mild and weak. Already Thiruvithamkoor and Kochi had accepted British
suzerainty. From the very beginning, Achan had challenged Macaulay’s high-handedness.
When this became unbearable, Achan raised the flag of rebellion. He had already
friendship with Velu Thampi Dalawa who was in similar situation in Thiruvithamkur. Both
started recruiting and training solders. They even tried to get help from the French in
Mauritius in December 1808, at midnight, Achan and his 600 Nair soldiers attacked the
Residency of Macaulay. But the Resident had managed to escape. Thereupon Achan and
his men broke open the jail and set free the prisoners. However, the British who followed
the ‘Divide and Rule’ Policy, succeded in isolating Achan from the Dalawa. When the
British government offered peace or war, Achan chose to surrender, provided he was
assured of “security to his person, honour, family and property”. He also took upon
himself the whole responsibility of the revolt so that Kochi should not be punished. The
British agreed to these conditions. But they deported him to Madras. He stayed in Fort
St.George for 12 years and then in Bombay for 11 years. In 1832 he was allowed to go to
Benaras. Though an enemy, the British showed respect and honour to Govindan
Valiachan. He was permitted to take a palanquin, a sword, two guns and 20 attendeants
with him. He passed away in the holy town of Beneras. Shri govindan Valiachan was the
last Prime Minster of Kochi.
Raman Valiachan (1915-1940)
Paliath Raman Valiachan, who was the head of the family from 1915 lived up to the ideals
Paliam family. He took a deep interest in measures that were for the welfare of the people
of Chendamangalam. The most important decision taken by him was that 1/3 of the
income of Paliam family will be set aside for religious institutions and for public welfare.
Transport, water supply and education invited his foremost attention. Even before he
became Valiachan, he had established a primary school and later and English school which
were a blessing to the people. He gave fee concession to poor students. A girl’s school too
was started by him. It was Raman Valiachan who built the bridge connecting parur and
Chendamangalam. To him also goes the credit for allotting Rs.25000/- to all those who
suffered from the floods of 1099 (Malayalam era) or 1925 A.D.

The Paliath Achans, Pandarathil Achan were hereditary Prime Ministers to the Raja of
Kingdom of Cochin (Kochi) from 1632 to 1809 and second only to the Rajah in power a
sample image and wealth in the central Cochin area during that period. He was also a
considerable land owner, one of the largest in the state. Historical records show that the
Paliath Achans became major players in Kerala history with the arrival of the Portuguese.
In recognition of the Paliath Achan's services, the Kochi Rajah granted him Vypin Island.
At about the period, the land of Villarvattom came into his possession as well. In 1681,
the Kochi Raja conferred upon him, the title of Sarvadhyakshan (literally translated,
"Supreme presider over all affairs"), and in 1731, the Paliath Komi Achan was appointed
to the post of Prime Minister of the Kochi Raja.
Paliath Achan had advised the Raja of Cochin to submit to the then King of Portugal, and
virtually allowed a European power to get a foot hold in India for the first time. A later
Paliath Achan accompanied a deposed Raja of Cochin to plead for help from the Dutch to
oust the Portuguese. It was a fact that the rulers of Kerala could have done this without
much difficulty instead of inviting the Dutch. When a later Paliath Achan found that the
British may endanger his position, he organised an attack on Col. Wellesley,
representative of the British in Travancore and Cochin, which was bound to fail. This
foolish action resulted in ousting the Achans from the permanent Prime ministership of
Cochin. Some describe this as a freedom struggle. There was an organised mass rebellion
against the Paliath family in post British period. They have not done much for the benefit
of the downtrodden in society, as claimed.
The family home Palace (tharavadu) is located in the village of Chendamangalam, in
Ernakulam district. After the passing of the Land Reform Ordinance, the family lost a lot
of land that it owned. The ordinance set a ceiling on how much land an individual or family
could own. As a result, the family wealth and property was partitioned in 1952. The
number of members at the time of partition was 213 and the deed was registered in 1956.
In addition to being the largest Joint-Hindu family, the deed was the biggest partition deed
of Travancore-Cochin/Kerala.
As of 2009, there were 445 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.
Paliam Satyagraham
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.

Paliam Trust
"In terms of the Partition Deed of Paliam family executed vide document No. 650/1956 of
Kodungalloor SRO, dated 5th March 1956, Trust has been formed in the name of Paliam
Group Devaswom Trust for the management and administration of the trust properties
wholly for religious purposes, including maintenance of the temples and for meeting the
day to-day expenses of the temples and the eldest male member of the family who acquires
the position and title of Valia Achan from time to time shall be the Trustee who is vested
with all the properties of the Trust and authority to administer and manage the affairs of the
trust, as stated in Clauses 6, 10 & 11 of the above said Partition Deed.
Trustee’s powers shall be exercised by the Manager of the Trust in terms of the Power of
Attorney to be executed by the Trustee in his favour."
Paliam Nalukettu

Built more than four hundred years ago, it was in this

Nalukettu that the Paliam family settled after shifting from Vanneri to Chendamangalam. This
Nalukettu is a self contained double storeyed building with eight bedrooms in the south and kitchen
and the well in the northeast corner. It houses the Ara, the strong room, for the safekeeping of the
family heirlooms. Interestingly, below the Ara is the concealed nether room with a secret exit. It is
built in the Kerala style. The beautifully laid out entrance foyer, purathu thalam , is still a great
attraction, not only to the family members, but also the tourists who come here. There is a wide
courtyard all around the Nalukettu. The benign presence of Paliam tharavad Bhagavathy is just
nearby

Family
Ancient Nair family in erstwhile Cochin State now in Kerala. Main Tharawad located at
Chendamangalam in Ernakulam District. Family size & structure: The biggest joint Hindu
family till partition in 1952. Number of members at the time of partition in 1952 was
213. The deed was registered in 1956. This appears to be the biggest partition deed of
Travancore – Cochin/Kerala. Now in 2013 number of members is 444. Family system:
Matriarchal: Wedlock of female members: Primarily to Namboodiri Brahmins, Cochin
Royal family, Other Royal family members of erstwhile Travancore and Malabar areas
and other prominent Nair Tharavads. Historical background: Political advisor to
Maharaja of Cochin, held the position of Prime Minister for more than 150 years.
Titles Conferred
 1. Senior most male member: Valiya Achan
 2. Senior most female member: Valiya Amma
 3. Adult male member: Achan
 4. Adult female member: Kunjamma
 5. Minor male member: Kuttan
 6. Minor female member: Pilla

Present Paliath achan Govinda Valiyachan (Vikaraman achan)

PALIAM COMPLEX FROM THE MEMORY

POOJA STORE ROOM
Paliam Museums-Muziris project

Muziris
Muziris (Muchiri or Mucciri, was an ancient seaport and urban center in southwestern India
on the Periyar that existed from around the beginning of the Christian era to the 1300s.
Muziris has found mention in the classical Tamil Sangha literature and a number of
European historical sources. In a massive flood of the Periyar in 1341 CE, Muziris was said
to have been destroyed and the centre of commerce was shifted to other ports on the
Malabar Coast. Soon the exact location of Muziris was forgotten; currently, it is believed
to have been located close to the present day Kodungallur.
The multi-disciplinary and multi-seasonal archaeological research in the area was
conducted by the Kerala Council for Historical Research (KCHR) at Pattanam, a small
village at North Parur. It is hypothesized that Pattanam could be an integral part of Muziris.
Pattanam was the first site in the Indian Ocean to yield archaeological evidence for
Mediterranean, North African, West Asian and Chinese maritime contacts. The evidence
suggested that Pattanam was a commercial location exposed to long distance and regional
trade, prior to Roman contact.
To reinstate the historical and cultural significance of the legendary port of Muziris, the
Government of Kerala has initiated the Muziris Heritage Project. Today, the region is
dotted with numerous monuments of a bygone era that conjure up a vast and vivid past.
The entire project is designed to involve and integrate the local community in all intended
developmental initiatives.
The Muziris Heritage Site (MHS) stretches across from the municipality of North Paravur
in Ernakulam district to that of Kodungalloor in Thrissur district. It includes four
panchayats in Ernakulam district viz. Chendamangalam, Chittatukara, Vadakekkara,
Pallippuram, and three panchayats in Thrissur district viz. Eriyad, Mathilakam and
Sreenarayanapuram.
Museums
Taking into consideration the historical importance of the Paliam family and the role played
by the Paliath Achans as Prime Ministers of Kochi, the Government of Kerala has declared
the Paliam Nalukettu and the Paliam Palace as Heritage Monuments under the first phase
of the Muzris Heritage Project. The Government will conserve the monuments and convert
the same as museums which will be opened to the public soon.
Book on History of Paliam both in English and Malayalam

The Paliam Eswara Seva Trust at Chendamangalam has released the book on History of
Paliam both in English and Malayalam at a glittering function held at the Century-old
Paliam Nalukettu in Chendamangalam on the 24th of August 2013 and coincided with the
launch of this very Web Site.
This authentic record of the genesis and life of the Paliam family through centuries as
incorporated within the history of Kochi. The book traces the roots of Paliam family, its
association with the Perumpadappu Swarupam and Thiruvanchikulam and its shift to
Chendamangalam in the 14th Century and evolution of Paliath Achans as the lord of
Chendamangalam. The book also provides a brief sketch of the family�s heritage and
also impressions of a joint family of a bygone era

Paliam Nalukettu's are the traditional homesteads (tharavads) where several

generations of a matrilineal joint family lived together. Nalukettu consists of a main
house along with a few satellite houses. Portico, Inner Hall, Kitchen and four blocks -
Northern, Southern, Eastern and Western - constitute the different parts of a
traditional Nalukettu. The design and construction pattern are closely linked to the life
cycle of women in the family, their rituals, beliefs and celebrations. Nalukettu was
occupied by the women of Paliam Noble family who followed matrilineal system.
This structure is also an epitome of the traditional housing architecture of Kerala.
Nalukettu museum presents to the visitor, the architectural model of Nalukettu and
various social-cultural and economic practices from the feudal era.

This classical structure was built by the elder member of the family in the year 1786,
for the women and minor boys of Paliam. It has a big courtyard at the centre with
rooms surrounding it and Purathalam, where the members gathered to chat and for
recreational activities. There used to be a common dining hall and a common kitchen
as all the members lived and dined together, under the protection of Valiachan. The
boys, when they became majors, had separate bachelor living quarters and after their
marriage, the administration provided them houses. This style of 'community living'
continued till the partition of the joint family. The last members left the Nalukettu
after the family partition deed, and so the building is no longer occupied.

The Matriarchal Legacy

Matrilineal system followed an inheritance system through mothers. Like

Kochi royal family, Paliam family too followed matrilineal system. The
Karanavar [head of the family) was called Valiyachan. The inheritance
rights went to the nephew (sister's son). Valiyachan held the status of being
the manager of the family. Unlike other Nalukettus' where male were in
charge of household administration, in Paliam the control of the Nalukettu
rested with valiyamma.

Architectural Features

The Nalukettu is a typical self-contained Malayali house, a quadrangle

building consisting of four blocks, with a rectangular courtyard in the centre
known as the "nadumittam". The western block or "padinjattini" is divided
into three rooms the middle one of which is the private strong room or "ara"
where all the valuables and house hold deities are kept. The north east block
or "vadakkini" is divided into two parts, the kitchen and the dining room.
The other rooms in the north quarter houses general rooms. The whole or the
middle portions of the eastern and southern blocks"kizhakkini and tekkini"
are open halls where guests are received; the same on the upper floors
consist of bedrooms for the women, where they are met by their husbands
occasionally in the night.
Exhibits

The main exhibits here include seasonal display in the hall, kitchen, vessels
gallery and an exclusive collection of lamps.

ABOUT NALUKETTU DESIGN

A house in Kerala is generally called Veedu. The Veedu gives shelter to joint-family
kinfolk or tharavad. The joint family system (tharavad--kinship system) consequently
promotes the tradition of living in a huge shelter or mansion (veedu--object of house).

ORIENTATION

Nalukettu faces South –Direct Sunlight From Late Morning To Early After
noon.

Its a Single Structure in a Compound wall

Very few Trees around ,Almost Barren.

Plinth Height – 75 cm

Verandah height - 60 cm
Provided Protection From Insects and Other Organisms .

Protection Againt Dampness

Two storied Building

Ground Floor Consist of

 Kitchen

 Kizhakkini

 Thekkini

 Padinjattini

 Vadakkini

 Delivery Rooms

 Ara

 Hidden basement

First Floor consist of 4 Private bedrooms Which are Seperated Using

Wooden boards .Vliyamma is Considered to be the Most Superior
and Hence Her room is the Largest of All which is again In the First
floor .
Description of the Nambudiri Illam

There are four wings Northern, Southern, Eastern and Western. • The built structures
were on the southern and the western wings • The granary on the south has solid walls of
laterite or wood. • The western block is generally raised, open hall with columns which
support the floor above. It is here that the official ceremonies take place and the men also
learn or sleep • The corner room at the north west is used for storage or for sleeping

The kitchen with its adjacent well is always without exception placed in the northeast
corner. Since the wind comes from the southwest in Kerala it is the most logical position
to ensure the smoke escapes the building directly • The northern side next to the kitchen is
used for the performance of the most important ritual of Shredda the human ritual of
pouring Ghee on the sacred fire.

Description of the Nambudiri Illam • The puja room is located on the north or in the east
next to the kitchen. • The practical reasons for not building on the northern and eastern
sides are to allow the escape of smoke and to minimize the chance of an external fire. •
The corner rooms were segregated form the main blocks. They are separated by
corridors, stairwells and doors going to the outside. These rooms are not considered for
rituals and are used as entrance rooms, bedrooms, the delivery rooms (south east
corner) or occasionally for storage (north west corner.

Women Spaces: • Women were considered inferior to men and they were not allowed to
enter into the main courtyard except for their marriage and at death. • In houses with one
courtyard back spaces were added next to kitchen. • Accesses to main pooja room and
to one or two bedrooms were only through a back door.

Introduction: Namboothiri houses (Brahmaalayam, Mana, illam) were built invariably

according to the canons of Vaasthusaasthram (Vaasthuvidya priciples, the science and art -
architecture - of building in harmony with the eternally active, creative, and all pervasive
'Spirit' and 'Nature') and in conformity and proportion with the usually large compound or plot
(Illapparambu). In the early days, they were all built in the form of Chathussaalas or
Naalukettus (quadrangle or the ancient courtyards) - Kizhakkini (eastern part), Thekkini
(south), Padinhaatti (west) and Vadukkini (north), as seperate structures. This can be seen
even today in Kurumathur Illam. In later years, joining these four through Meladukkala,
kizhakke Ara, Puraththaalam and Vadakke Ara, came to vogue. The Vadakkini floor was
always considerably raised, whereas local custom determined whether none, any or all of the
other three had raised floors or not. The Thekkini and/ or Padinhaatti may either be single
storyed or two (or more) storyes high. Anyway all Brahmaalayams were invariably in the
Naalukettu style.

The gateway entrance to the plot (Padippura) is built on the western boundary in line with the
Thekkini veranda. The Padippura will have standing (or resting) space both inside and outside.
This is done to let the passers - by know that the house is a Brahmaalayam, where food will be
available. With the same purpose in mind, the kitchen well is provided with a drum shaped
wooden pulley system with wooden balls (or dry fruit shells) inside which produce noise while
drawing water.

The Paththaayappura (grain store-house), bathing tank, well, dining halls (Kettu) and all other
functional parts have very definite relative locations, size, shape and other details, determined
as per Vaastuvidya
3. Influence of climate • Kerala has a warm humid climate. The rainfall is very heavy from
south west and north east monsoons • To keep the rain and sun away form the walls the
roofs of the building come down very low. • They have verandah all round the building
protecting the external walls from sun and rain. • The width of the verandah varies from 2
ft to 12ft • In rooms were people spend most of their time during day the window
openings were brought in at ground level otherwise the windows were small so that there
was only subdued light inside or had timber jalis to give diffused light without glare. •
They also have an internal courtyard for better flow of air

4. Roofing system • The ridged roof pitched at angles between 30degree to 40degree •
The roof with intricately carved gables protruding from the roof with overhangs supported
by wooden brackets. • The roof is prefabricated that is different members are fixed on the
ground and assembled at the top. • No nails are used. • The roof is kept in position by
interlocking with the hole in the rafters. • Walls made of timber or earth and roof of
coconut leaves or tiles are common in many parts of Kerala • Structurally the roof frame
was supported on the pillars on walls erected on a plinth raised from the ground for
protection against dampness and insects in the tropical climate

11. Residential architecture • There are various terms of house for different tribes
according to social status and profession. The house of: • Pariah - CHERI • the agrestic
slave – Cheraman - CHALA. • blacksmith, the goldsmith, the carpenter, the weaver -
KUDI • temple servants reside – VARIYAM / PISHARAM • The ordinary Nayars - VEEDU
/ BHAVANAM • Nayar’s authority - IDAM. • Raja lives in a KOVILAKKAM / KOTTARAM

There are five types of traditional domestic architecture or Veedu in Kerala, namely: • (1)
the wretched humble house, unknown by any building treatise of Kerala, belongs to
ordinary folks and tribal people/ adivasis (cheri, chala, kudi, variyam or pisharam or
pumatham); • (2) the Ekasala, an I-shaped single rectangular hall house, belongs to
farmers or middle-class non-farmers; (3) the Nalukettu, a courtyard house, belongs to
landlords; • (4) the great mansion Ettuketu and Patinjarukettu (double ettukettu) or much
bigger structures, belong to very rich landlords; • (5) commoner houses are simple
ordinary houses scattered abundantly in the cities and villages.

1. Description of the Nambudiri Illam • The illams of the affluent Nambudiri families
of Trichur are self contained complex of buildings in a wide secluded compound. •
The complex consists of – one or two storied Nalukettu building – An entrance
gate (Padipura) – One or more tanks for bathing • Optional buildings such as a
Granary, a Kitchen for feeding guests and a Shrine or a Temple itself.
2. 19. Description of the Nambudiri Illam • There are four wings Northern, Southern,
Eastern and Western. • The built structures were on the southern and the
western wings • The granary on the south has solid walls of laterite or wood. •
The western block is generally raised, open hall with columns which support the
floor above. It is here that the official ceremonies take place and the men also
learn or sleep • The corner room at the north west is used for storage or for
sleeping
3. 20. Description of the Nambudiri Illam • The kitchen with its adjacent well is
always without exception placed in the northeast corner. Since the wind comes
from the southwest in Kerala it is the most logical position to ensure the smoke
escapes the building directly • The northern side next to the kitchen is used for
the performance of the most important ritual of Shredda the human ritual of
pouring Ghee on the sacred fire.
4. 21. Description of the Nambudiri Illam • The puja room is located on the north or
in the east next to the kitchen. • The practical reasons for not building on the
northern and eastern sides are to allow the escape of smoke and to minimize the
chance of an external fire. • The corner rooms were segregated form the main
blocks. They are separated by corridors, stairwells and doors going to the
outside. These rooms are not considered for rituals and are used as entrance
 rooms, bedrooms, the delivery rooms (south east corner) or occasionally for
storage (north west corner)
5. 22. Women Spaces: • Women were considered inferior to men and they were not
allowed to enter into the main courtyard except for their marriage and at death. •
In houses with one courtyard back spaces were added next to kitchen. •
Accesses to main pooja room and to one or two bedrooms were only through a
back door.
6. 23. Future expansions: • The additions in the last century show a slow moving
towards modern times. • Houses with more than one courtyard were built and
expanded without much constraint as the ritual rules applied only to the first
courtyard.
7. 24. Nair Tharavadu of Kerala: • The Nairs are the race of people living in the state
of Kerala and constitute 16% of the state population • The concept of the house is
rural, located near paddy fields in fenced compounds with palm, banana and
other fruit bearing trees with a well or tank for water supply. • The Nair house is
also called a Veedoo • The tharavad houses were joint families with 30-40
members in a matriarchial system. • The head of the tharavad was the oldest
male member.
8. 25. Description of the Nair Tharavad: • Security and defence played a vital role in
determining the orientation, layout and future additions. • The courtyard and the
wings surrounding it from the basic module • The house type is classified by the
number of such modules – Nallukettu – four chambers – Ettukettu – eight
chambers • Padinarkettu – sixteen chambers
9. 26. Description of the Nair Tharavad: • The number of courtyards and the house
annexes are an indication of the social standing and the wealth of the family. •
The principles of siting, spatial arrangement of rooms, choice of building
materials, measurements and construction details were based on Vastu Vidhya
and Tachhushastram • Nine house types are identified on the basis of courtyards
and enclosing wings • 14 house classifications according to primary building
materials
10.
#old #carved #wooden #panel
11. Main entrance to my #ancestral #home ("tharavad" in #malayalam )
in #chendamangalam , #kerala ; the #paliam nalukettu. It was built around
400 to 500 years ago. #history #culture #tradition #nair

1. 'Natasaala' & 'Poomukham' (Drawing Room) - Place to receive persons of all castes who
have no 'Theendal'
2. 'Padinjattithara' (The western wing of quadrangular type of house) - Place to receive
respected persons and serve them meals.
3. 'Deenamuri' (Sick Room) - Room for sick male members.
4. 'Vadukkini' (The northern part) - Place to do rituals like 'Oupaasanam', 'Sraadham', etc.
5. 'Meladukkala' - Day-to-day dinner hall for Namboothiris.
6. Room used by ladies at the time of menses.
7. 'Kalavara' (Store room) - Room to store Rice, Coconut Oil, Coconuts, etc.
8. 'Paathrakkalavara' (Vessel store room) - Room to store vessels which are not in daily use.
9. 'Puthanara' (New chamber) - Room to store pickles and keep luggage of Antharjanams.
10. 'Vadakke Akam' - Labour Room
11. 'Vadakke Kett' - Lunch hall for Namboothiris for noon meals.
12. 'Cheriya Meladukkala' or 'Thundanadukkala' - Dinner hall for Antharjanams.
13. 'Sreelaakam' - Worship Room
14. 'Morakam' - Kitchen store room to keep buttermilk, etc.
15. 'Adukkala' - Kitchen
16. 'Kizhakke Kett' ('Vadakketh') - Dinner hall for Antharjanams.
17. 'Kizhakke Kett' ('Thekketh') - Dinner hall for Namboothiris on special occassions.
18. 'Oottupura' - Place to prepare feast on special occasions.
19. 'Nadumittam' - Inner courtyard or quadrangle

Walls and Materials Used

Walls : Made of Laterite With Sand Filling and Lime Plastering

Columns :Entirely Made out of Timber

Walls were 30 cm thick Which Provide Insulation And Kept The Interior
Cool.
FLOORING

Surkhi Flooring : Cool Interiors

Egg Plastering : Making the floor Smooth and Shiny

The delivery Room had Tiled laid which was imported During that time
From foreign countries .

The floors are Made in 3 Different levels –The ARA And THEKKINI were
raised to a height of 45 cm and the basement below the ARA .

ARA

The north east block or “Vadakkini” si divided into two parts,the kitchen and dinning
room.The whole or the middle portions of the eastern and southern blocks “kizhakinni
and tekkini’ are open halls where guests were received.The upper floors consist of
bedrooms for the women.
*Nearest railway station: Aluva,about 19 km and Ernakulam,about 31 km.
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport,about 22 km.

Paliam Nalukettu’s are the traditional homesteads (tharavads) where several

generations of a matrilineal joint family lived together. Nalukettu consists of a
main house along with a few satellite houses. Portico, Inner Hall, Kitchen and
four blocks – Northern, Southern, Eastern and Western – constitute the
different parts of a traditional Nalukettu. The design and construction pattern
are closely linked to the life cycle of women in the family, their rituals, beliefs
and celebrations. Nalukettu was occupied by the women of Paliam Noble
family who followed matrilineal system. This structure is also an epitome of
the traditional housing architecture of Kerala. Nalukettu museum presents to
the visitor, the architectural model of Nalukettu and various social-cultural
and economic practices from the feudal era.

This classical structure was built by the elder member of the family in the year
1786, for the women and minor boys of Paliam. It has a big courtyard at the
centre with rooms surrounding it and Purathalam, where the members
gathered to chat and for recreational activities. There used to be a common
dining hall and a common kitchen as all the members lived and dined
together, under the protection of Valiachan. The boys, when they became
majors, had separate bachelor living quarters and after their marriage, the
administration provided them houses. This style of ‘community living’
continued till the partition of the joint family. The last members left the
Nalukettu after the family partition deed, and so the building is no longer
occupied.

The Nalukettu is a typical self-contained Malayali house, a quadrangle

building consisting of four blocks, with a rectangular courtyard in the centre
known as the “nadumittam”. The western block or “padinjattini” is divided
into three rooms the middle one of which is the private strong room or “ara”
where all the valuables and house hold deities are kept. The north east block
or “vadakkini” is divided into two parts, the kitchen and the dining room. The
other rooms in the north quarter houses general rooms. The whole or the
middle portions of the eastern and southern blocks”kizhakkini and tekkini”
are open halls where guests are received; the same on the upper floors consist
of bedrooms for the women, where they are met by their husbands
occasionally in the night.

Exhibits
The main exhibits here include seasonal display in the hall, kitchen, vessels
gallery and an exclusive collection of lamps.

Paliyam Palace is a Palace in Kerala Built more than four

hundred years ago, it was in this Nalukettu that the Paliam
family settled after shifting from Vanneri to
Chendamangalam. This Nalukettu is a self contained
double storeyed building with eight bedrooms in the south
and kitchen and the well in the northeast corner. It houses
the Ara, the strong room, for the safekeeping of the family
heirlooms. Interestingly, below the Ara is the concealed
nether room with a secret exit. It is built in the Kerala style.
The beautifully laid out entrance foyer, purathuthalam , is
still a great attraction, not only to the family members, but
also the tourists who come here. There is a wide courtyard
all around the Nalukettu. The benign presence of Paliam
tharavad Bhagavathy is just nearby
COURTYARD

Courtyard Plays a Very important Role In controlling Temperature within

the house .

Micro climate Modifier

Overhang of 1 m width are provided in order to protect Rain From Getting

to the Interiors .

Continuos circulation of Air Within The Interior .

Enables Passive Cooling .

Verandas On all Four Sides That lead to various Rooms

More over Since Ladies were not Allowed to go Out side ,There for This
was Their Only place For Interaction.

Passive Air cooling Reference

VENTILATION

The NALUKETTU Incorporates the principles of KARNASUTRA .An

Opening In The Form of a Small Holes provided in the South – West And
North –East Corners .This Allow the Passage Of Air .Light And Magnetic
Flux Diagonally Throgh the House .

WINDOWS

Provided at a Height of 60 Cm From the Floor Up to a Height of 160 cm

Made of Timber Frame and Panels

The Overhangs Extend So as to Limit the Direct Entry to Sunrays Throgh
the Windows .

The First Floor Had Wooden Jallies Below the windows all around that
Open to the Courtyard .
FIRST FLOOR COURTYARD

Even the ARA and The Secret Passage in the Basement were Also Provided
With Ventilation.

There were no windows provided for Private Rooms .

ROOF

Traditional Pitched Roof With a Slope of 45 Degree Supported over Timber

frames .

Covered with Traditional Roofing clay Tiles

The Pitched Roof enables the Easy Rain Water .

Extended over the verandah at a Length of 1m Which protects the Walls

from Direct heat and Rains .

MACHU

Similar to a False ceiling Provided beneath the Roof .

'Nalu' means four and 'kettu' means built-up sides. Depending on the castes,
the Nalukettu houses are also referred to as tharavadu, kovilakam, kottaram,
meda or illam. A Nalukettu is typically a rectangular structure where four
blocks and joined together by an open courtyard

Vastuvidya (anon.) and Manushyalaya Chandrika (Thirumangalathu Sri Neelakandan),

dealing with the domestic architecture. A number of minor works in Sanskrit,
Manipravalam and refined Malayalam, all based on the above texts have found popularity
in Kerala with the craftsmen and professionals related with the subject

Composition and structure[edit]

A full view of Kanakakkunnu Palace at Thiruvananthapuram

Kerala architecture can be broadly divided into 2 distinctive areas based on their
functionality, each guided by different set of principles;
The gabled roof and ceiling works are the prime feature of Kerala architectural style

 Religious Architecture, primarily patronised by temples of Kerala as well as several

old churches, mosques etc.
 Domestic Architecture, primarily seen in most of the residential houses. There are
distinctively styles in this area, as Palaces and large mansions of feudal lords
different from houses of commoners and also marked difference exists between
religious communities
Composition[edit]
The primary elements of all structures trends to remain same. The base model is
normally circular, square or rectangular plain shapes with a ribbed roof evolved from
functional consideration. The most distinctive visual form of Kerala architecture is the
long, steep sloping roof built to protect the house's walls and to withstand the heavy
monsoon, normally laid with tiles or thatched labyrinth of palm leaves, supported on a
roof frame made of hard wood and timber. Structurally the roof frame was supported on
the pillars on walls erected on a plinth raised from the ground for protection against
dampness and insects in the tropical climate. Often the walls were also of timbers
abundantly available in Kerala. Gable windows were evolved at the two ends to provide
attic ventilation when ceiling was incorporated for the room spaces.

Most of Kerala buildings appears to low height visually, due to over-sloping of roofs, which are
meant to protect walls from rains and direct sun shine
The belief system of Vastu plays a very important role in developing architecture styles.
The basic underlying belief is that, every structure built on earth has its own life, with a
soul and personality which is shaped by its surroundings. The most important science
which has Kerala has developed purely indigenously is Thachu-Shastra (Science of
Carpentry) as the easily availability of timber and its heavy use of it. The concept of
Thachu underlines that as timber is derived from a living form, the wood, when used for
construction, has its own life which must be synthesised in harmony with its surroundings
and people whom dwell inside it.
The centuries-old household of the Paliam family, the male members of which were
designated as the prime ministers of the Cochin kingdom. Only female members of the
family and children were allowed inside this house.
Chendamangalam was said to be a wasteland before the Paliath family arrived from
the Malabar. With their arrival, development began trickling in. The origins of the
stone-work, gold-work and handloom industries in Chendamangalam today are all
rooted to the family.
It has also played a pivotal role in the battles that the Cochin kingdom fought with
colonial powers and with other local rival armies. During the conquest of Hyder Ali in
1776, the then chief of the family was able to eke out a treaty between him and the
Cochin king that kept truce between the two powers.
The meteoric rise of the family, after being endowed with land grants and the title of
prime-ministership by the king of Cochin, led to the popular adage ‘kochiyil pathi
paliyam’ (Paliyam owns half of Kochi). While the male members of the family,
including the head, resided in a two-storey official residence which was gifted by the
Dutch, the female members stayed in a separate adjoining household. Both of these
structures are fascinating architectural wonders, crafted out of the finest teak wood
and replete with luxurious facilities.
“The household, restricted to women and children of the family, is about 234 years
old. Each wing of the house has specific uses. For example, the east wing is primarily
used for functions such as births, marriages and even deaths. In the west wing, we can
see a locker which contained all the valuables. Underneath the locker, it’s said that a
tunnel begins, leading up to Kottayil Kovilakom, a nearby household,” Rakhi, a
guide, explains.
Today, the museums at Paliam reflect and celebrate local history, folklore and
architecture of the region. Officials of the heritage project say there’s enough
historical material in the Chendamangalam area alone to set up at least 29 museums
dealing with religious, cultural and social aspects of the people and the feudal leaders
that lived through the ages.
As the evening sun cast its glow on the village and the surrounding islets of the
Periyar, I wrapped up my tour, with the sensation of having travelled through
different time periods in a matter of hours. A journey through time indeed.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Architecture_of_Kerala

Made of Timber
Created a Layer of AIR Between the Ceiling and The Roof Which act as an
insulator that prevents the Conduction Of Exterior heat Through the Roof .

Ventilations are Provided Between Machu And the Rooms

POOMUKHAM
It is The welcoming Space Of the House .It has raised Plat form For Gatherings
The sloping Roofs are clearly visible here .

VALIYAMMA’S Room
It is the Largest Room in The House had Glass Windows Which increased heat compared
to the Other Rooms .Jallies are provided Below the Windows for Air circulation.Timber
Panelling done on all four Walls .
THEKKINI

KIZHAKKINI
KITCHEN

ANALYSIS TEMPERATURE
Materials Used Reducing Temperature.
Overhangs Provided at a considerable Length Which Prevented The Direct Exposure of
Walls to Sunlight .
Provision Of Machu
Courtyard
Thick Walls .
WINDS
The bedrooms were Provided in the South West and West Directions Which made
maximum Utilisation of Natural Wind .
KARNASUTHRA That Runs From South West to North East .
Kitchen was Placed in the North East Direction So that the Wind would Flow out of kitchen.

INFLUENCE OF CLIMATE
Kerala has a warm humid climate. The rainfall is very heavy from south west and north east
monsoons • To keep the rain and sun away form the walls the roofs of the building come down very
low. • They have verandah all round the building protecting the external walls from sun and rain. •
The width of the verandah varies from 2 ft to 12ft • In rooms were people spend most of their time
during day the window openings were brought in at ground level otherwise the windows were small
so that there was only subdued light inside or had timber jalis to give diffused light without glare. •
They also have an internal courtyard for better flow of air.
ROOFING SYSTEM
The ridged roof pitched at angles between 30degree to 40degree • The roof with intricately carved
gables protruding from the roof with overhangs supported by wooden brackets. • The roof is
prefabricated that is different members are fixed on the ground and assembled at the top. • No nails
are used. • The roof is kept in position by interlocking with the hole in the rafters. • Walls made of
timber or earth and roof of coconut leaves or tiles are common in many parts of Kerala • Structurally
the roof frame was supported on the pillars on walls erected on a plinth raised from the ground for
protection against dampness and insects in the tropical climate.
VASTUVIDYA
Traditional architecture • Traditional Kerala architecture is the Vastu vidhya is derived from
the Stapatya Veda of Adharva Veda and deals with two types of architecture – Residential
Architecture(Manusyalaya) under functional architecture.