ARANMULA HERITAGE

VILLAGE PROJECT
The very term
culture is complex and multi
dimensional. Encompassed
within it are atitudes and
aptitudes, spirituality and
religion, thoughts and
philosophy, art and aesthetics
and their cumulative impact
in creating a subtle rhythm
of life. With passage of time,
they have come to symbolize
collectively the HERITAGE of
the land itself.
Princess Aswathy Thirunal
Goury Lakshmi Bayi
A comprehensive programme to
preserve and promote our rich Heritage
Puthariyal

An ancient banyan tree seen in front of Aranmula Temple. It is the prestigious
symbol of our agricultural tradition (Karshika Samskrithi) where the paddy were
placed with devotion by farmers.
India in general and Kerala in particular has a rich heritage of which we need to be proud of. While we
should be open to accept anything best from anywhere in the world, we need to be genuinely proud of
our own heritage including architecture, organic farming, yoga, ayurveda, music, hygienic living,
family values, social ethics, nature worship, art, religious tolerance and so on. Since a signifcant
number of our youngsters are living abroad and many of them have become global citizens,
Aranmula Heritage Village is aimed at preserving our great heritage and promoting it globally
to be preserved for our posterity.
Consequent upon the rapid urbanization taking place in Kerala and the onslaught of real estate
lobby supported by self seeking politicians, the great heritage of Kerala is under threat. Severe
damage is done to the ecology by fattening hills, encroaching on rivers and forest, blasting rocks,
Sand mining, levelling of paddy felds etc..
Thi ruvonathoni
Aranmula Putharikandam
The word ARANMULA is derived from Arin Vilai which
means fertile land on the banks of river. River Pamba
and its streams are fowing all around Aranmula and
surrounding villages. In fact many of the villagers such
as Mallapuzhassery, Thottapuzhassery, Malakkara,
Panniprayar, Nedumprayar, Keezhukara, Melukara etc. are
linked with the streams connected to these villages.
River Pamba is the third largest river in Kerala after Periyar
and Bharathappuzha. Sabarimala, the hill shrine of lord
Ayyappa is situated near pamba. Legend has it that Lord
Ayyappa as a child was found on the banks of river pamba.
Lord Ram put his foot in pamba and met Sabari, an Adivasi
Woman who did penance for decades for Lord Rams
Darshan. Devotees take a dip in Pamba before and
after visiting Sabarimala as Pamba is revered as
Dekshina Ganga.
PALLIMUKKAM KAAVU in Aranmula
Parthasarathi temple at Aranmula is one of the 108 Vishnu temples
most revered by the devotees. Legend has it that Pandavas after
crowning Parikshit, grandson of Arjuna, had set out on Vanavas
and Salvation. When they reached Aranmula, they found the bank
of river Pampa most suited and serene to set up a temple for Lord
Krishna. Arjuna took the responsibility and brought the idol of
Lord Krishna through Pampa River in a raft mode of six pieces of
bamboos and hence the name Aranmula.
Aranmula also is known for its natural heritage such as fora,
fauna, landscape and its natural resources.
One of the world famous item of heritage value is Aranmula kannadi
which is a unique mirror made out of alloy metal. The know how for
making the mirror is known to only one family in the world and they
live in Aranmula.
ARANMULA HERITAGE VILLAGE Project is a comprehensive plan
initiated by a group of prominent persons committed to restoring
and protecting the great heritage of Kerala.
River Pamba
Beautiful sceneries and cultural heritage made Aranmula Village famous and signifcant.
Madhav Gadgil
Vasthu Vidya Gurukulam - gives education guidance, advice and recognition to all seekers of traditional
vasthu vidya. The gallery of paintings attracts many.
ORGANIZATION
The project is being implemented by a Registered Charitable Trust ARANMULA HERITAGE TRUST.
The Trust is guided by the following eminent persons as patrons:
Justice V.R. Krishna Iyer
Justice V.R. Krishna Iyer started his career as a Lawyer, got
elected to the Kerala Assembly, became Home Minister of Kerala.
Architect of Land Reforms which was a pioneering step for any
Government in India. Appointed Judge of Kerala High Court and
got elevated to Supreme Court of India. He was highly acclaimed
for many Landmark Judgements. He has been active in the Social and
Cultural Circuit and has been most sought after for his views on
various matters of national importance. He is always in the forefront
in taking up issues affecting weaker sections. Keen enthusiast for
protection of Heritage, he is highly respected for the impartial,
fearless and honest opinions on various matters of Social and
National importance. Among the many honours received by him was
PADMA VIBHUSHAN conferred on him by the President of India.
Shri P Gopinathan Nair
Plunged into freedom movement from a very young age and a true
follower of Mahatma Gandhi, he had travelled with Gandhiji all over
India. He had adopted Gandhian Principles and way of Life. After
Independence, he devoted his life entirely to propagate Gandhian Ideologies
including Prohibition of Alcohol, Bhoodan, Gramdan and Cow Protection. He
has established Shanti Sena to bring Peace in areas affected with Communal
disturbances. He continues to work for the Upliftment of Downtrodden. Shri
Gopinathan Nair is presently the Chairman of All India Gandhi Smarak Nidhi,
New Delhi and Gandhi Peace Foundation.
H H Swami Golokanandaji Maharaj
Completing 60 years of his Sanyasa life, H.H Swami Golokanandaji
Maharaj holds now the responsiblity of Madathipathi of Srirama
Krishna Ashramam, Thiruvalla. He hails from Aranmula, Studied in
Gurukula Vidyalaya of Kidangannoor, Aranmula and took sanyasa
diksha when he was 19 years old from H.H Swami Sankaranandaji
Maharaj, head of Belur Matt, Kolkata. His father and mother were
close devotees of H. H Kaviyoor Swamigal. Joined in Kaladi SRK
Ashram with the blessings of H. H Agamananda Swamiji. Worked
as head of various ashrams in Trivandrum, Koilandi, Harippad,
Kozhikkode etc. Well versed in literatures and principles of Sri RamaKrishna
& Swami Vivekananda, active in mobilising people for protecting
Aranmula heritage
Mathaji Guru Poornima Mayi
Founder of Vijayananda Vidyapeedom, Aranmula. During early childhood,
she came in contact with various Sanyasins and became disciple of H.H
Vijayananda Swamigal popularly known as Kaviyoor Swamigal. Joined in
Gurukula Vidyalaya as a teacher, Mathaji worked hard for the propagation and
preservation of teachings of her Gurudevan.
Conducted mass poojas and bhajans in every Pournami day for which
Pournami Sangham was established.
The overall supervision and management will be handled by a BOARD OF DIRECTORS Comprising of the following:
Shri Kummanam Rajasekharan- Chairman
Human Rights Activist, Environmentalist, Social Worker, Journalist and
a Brilliant Orator; Shri Kummanam came into prominence by successfully
leading a Peoples Movement and Agitation in 1983 for Preservation of
POONKAVANAM near SABARIMALA. Was Organiser of Paliyam
declaration in 1985 to confer Rights to all irrespective of Caste to conduct
poojas. Led the Agitation against PALAZHI untouchability and ELAVOOR
THOOKKAM.
As General Secretary of SABARI SARANASHRAM, he is instrumental
in setting up over 100 pilgrim centres for Sabarimala devotees. These
centres provide Shelter and Free Food to all the devotees. He is also
associated with rehabilitation of Adivasis. 14 Balasrams at different
places in Kerala ,takes care of about 1000 destitue children.
Shri Akkeeraman Kalidasa Bhattathirippad
Current Head of Kuzhikkattillam, Shri Bhattathiripad is Thanthri of
over 1000 temples . According to legend, Kuzhikkattillam is one of the
12 Brahmin families ordained by Lord Parasurama with the authority of
practicing manthras and Thanthras. Kuzhikkattillam was also known for its
expertise in vaidhyam and Jyothisham as well.
Shri Akkeeraman , is also the Chairman of Mookambika Engineering
College, Vice President of Tantradeepam, Aluva and President of
Yogakshema sabha ,apex organization of Kerala Brahmins.
Dr C V Anand Bose I A S
Former secretary to Govt. of India, Vice Chancellor of Culture University,
Chairman of Central Warehousing Corporation and Indias
representative to United Nations habitat wing. He was chairman of
expert committee appointed by Supreme Court for evaluation of the
Treasure of Sree Padmanabha Temple, Award Winning author of
several books including three best sellers, brilliant orator, recipient of
UN and National Awards including Jawaharlal Nehru fellowship for
outstanding contribution in various areas, recipient of world habitat
award and Rajiv Gandhi National Award for excellence in Management.
Shri Ajaya Kumar
An NRI business man from Pathanamthitta district. Shri Ajaya Kumar
spends signifcant part of his income for charity. He gives patronage and
protection to poor and destitute girls. He had established Balika Sadanam
in Pullad which provide shelter ,education and healthy life to the needy
girls .Under his leadership , Bala Karunyam, a state level get together of
all inmates residing in various orphanages and poor homes was
conducted for 3 days . He also co-ordinates fund raising from like
minded NRIs of various countries.
Shri Govind Bharathan
Well known Senior Advocate of Kerala High Court. Orator, Writer and
Social Activist. As a devotee of Sathya Sai Baba, he conducted discourses,
bhajans, service projects etc to propagate ethical values and spiritual thoughts.
He hails from Thalassery and resides in Ernakulam for the last 40 years.
He has remarkable achievements in legal, social and spiritual activities.
Shri Jayachandra Raj
Popularly known as GURUJI, Shri Raj has 6 post graduate degrees in
various subjects relating to Economics. He was a research scientist at
Centre for Development Studies, Kerala. He is an internationally popular
Astrologer with over half a million Raashi readings since 1998. He believes that
all Vedic sciences are for the beneft of mankind and not for commercialisation.
His astrological consultations, therefore, are free service to all. He has travelled
all over the world and presented thesis on Economics and Astrology.
Shri Kanayi Kunjiraman
Born in Kuttamath in Kasargod Dist.Kanayi Kunjiraman has been Keralas
Rajashilpi (Royal Sculptor) for over 50 years. He has an enviable reputation as
a master craftsman, who has remained unrivalled in his genre.
Kanayi received the Commonwealth Scholarship in 1965 to join the Slade
School of Arts in London, where he pursued his passion for sculpture for
3 years.
After his return, his frst major sculpture was the massive YAKSHI in
Malampuzha. Thereafter he made several life size statues, sculptures and
Painting. Prominent among them are SAGARAKANYA at Shanghumugam
Beach, Trivandrum, the CONCH at Veli Village, Trivandrum, statue of EMS
Namboodiripad, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, Sri Chithira Tirumal Maharaja,
Pattom Thanupillai, Mannath Padmanabhan and Dr Palpu.
Shri Katammanitta Vasudevan Pillai
A former professor of mathematics, Shri Vasudevan Pillai was
well known more as a padayani exponent than as an academician.
Was vice chairman of Kerala folklore academy. Authored several books
on traditional art forms and had won several awards for his literary
and cultural contribution.
Shri K V Madanan
After 33 years of relentless service in education feld, Sri K V Madanan
retired during 1994 as Commissioner for Entrance examinations.
Starting from Edappally Govt. High School as a teacher during 1961, he was
promoted and posted as DEO, Dy. Director, Jt. Director, Addl. Director and
became Director of Public Instruction in 1989. He took initiative to delink
pre-degree course from college education. Introduced nursery schools in
primary schools. Now working as All India President of Scheduled
Caste / Tribe Rights protection Forum.
Smt Menaka Sureshkumar
An accomplished Artist, Menaka has been a top level heroine in Malayalam Films.
She did few movies in Tamil, Telegu and Kannada as well. Married to
Shri Suresh Kumar, well known Film Producer, Menaka also was involved
with Production of movies under the banner Revathi Kalamandir. During her short
flm career of about 7 years, she had acted with most of the leading stars such as
Prem Nazir, Shankar, Nedumudi Venu, Mammoothy, Mohanlal and Rajnikanth.
Menaka also is associated with several social, spiritual and cultural organizations.
She is keenly interested in protection of Heritage and Culture.
Dr Pradeep Challiyil U S A
Management expert, Environmentalist and Biochemist. Keenly interested
in protection of heritage. Conduct health camps to help the poor.
He had won The Anna Memorial GOLD AWARD, for the best Ph.D
thesis publication in cancer feld (India)
His application for patent is pending for
(a) process for isolation of the anti cancer principle from medicinal plants and
(b) an electrochemical process for water sterilisation by singlet oxygen
production
Dr P. Radhakrishnan Nair
Former Civil Surgeon , Kerala Health Services,Dr Radhakrishnan Nair with
over 30 years experience started Amar Hospital , Maternity and Fertility Centre,
at Attingal near Trivandram, Kerala..The Hospital is famous for promoting
fertility, high quality services to high risk Pregnancy and neonates ,advance
surgical treatment in Gynaecology, General Surgery and urology through
minimally invasive surgical techniques.
Dr Radhakrishnan Nair is highly respected in his profession after having
conducted more than 35000 laparoscopic surgeries and 50000 deliveries
successfully. He has set very high standards of professional ethics and
practices at affordable cost. The Hospital has won awards from Kerala State
Government for Pollution Control and is ISO Certifed. He is a Philanthropist
and is associated with educating poor children.
Shri Rajan Nair
Shri Rajan Nair belongs to a reputed business family of Kollam. He is the son
of Poyilakkada Shri P. Gangadharan Pillai who was reputed for business ethics
and philanthropic activities. Shri Rajan Nair has been the Managing Partner of
Kerala Nut Food Co. who are one of the leading exporters of cashew.
He had diversifed into sea food exports in 1973 by starting Poyilakkada
Fisheries Pvt Limited and has been its Managing Director since then.
Shri Rajan Nair has been a Managing Committee member of Sea Food
Exporters Association of India for over 20 years. He had travelled to various
countries on Government delegation for promotion of sea food exports.
He was Founder of Quilon Management Association and Director of Kerala
Permanaent Beneft Fund Limited.
Smt Sugatha Kumari
Famous Poet who has been at the fore front of environmental and feminist
movement not only in Kerala but all over India. Her poetic works had a special
place for Mother Nature and dwelved on human relationships and emotions.
Smt Sugatha Kumari successfully led the agitation to save the silent Valley.
She is the founder Secretary of Prakriti Samrakshana Samithi, an organization
for protection of Nature and ABHAYA, a home for destitute women and
mentally ill. She was chairperson of Kerala State Womans Commission.
Numerous awards won by her include Kerala Sahithya Academy Award,
Odakkuzhal award, Vayalar Award, Indira Priyadarshini Vriksha Mitra award.,
Aasaan Prize , Vallathol award, Kerala Sahithya Academy fellowship,
Ezhuthachan Puraskaram and Saraswati Samman. She was also honoured
with PADMASHRI by the President of India.
Shri Suresh Gopi
A superstar of Malayalam Films, Shri Suresh Gopi won National Film Award for
Best Actor for his role in KALIYAATTAM. He started his career as a child artist
and went on to become super star with about 200 flms to his credit.
He became immensely popular with masses with his role of courageous and
Law Enforcing Police Offcers. His acting prowess was visible in several movies
where he played roles of characters of substance. Awards won by him besides
National Award include best actor in Kerala State Film Award (3 times) and best
supporting actor ( 4 times)
Shri Suresh Gopi also is famous for his Philanthropic efforts and his fearless
comments on matters of Public Interest.
Dr Thomas P Thomas
Associate Professor in Botany, St Thomas College, Active environmental
activist, fought against illegal reclamation of Paddy feld and wetlands at
Aranmula. Activist against Pollution Problems of Pamba caused by Pilgrims
and others, Active in moralistic and value added education to college students.
Member of All Kerala River Protection Council.
Shri Surya Kaladi Suryan Jayasuryan Bhattathirippad
Suryakaladi mana is renowned for Mantravada and Ganesh worship.
This mana, situated in Nattasseri near Kottayam., is believed to have been
instituted by Lord Parasurama. The Legend has it that Lord Surya appeared
in front of the ancestor of this Mana and blessed him with divine text
containing many secret Mantras and their applications. One male child in
each generation is titled SURYAN in remembrance of his ancestors tryst
with Lord Surya. THANTRI of several prominent temples, Shri Bhattathiripad
is considered an authority in Thantric practices. Chosen for Several Awards
and recognitions including Maha Ganesha Dasa, Puraskaram of Ayyappa Seva
Sangham, Thantrika Ratna Puraskaram of Jyotisha Patana Kendram.
Shri R S Nair - Director & Chief Executive
With qualifcations in Science, Law, Management and Banking, Shri R S Nair
started his Career with State Bank of India. While holding Managerial position
in the Bank, he had resigned and joined Leela Group as Director. Worked as
Managing Director of Buena Vista Travels Pvt. Limited, an IATA recognized,
Government approved Travel and Tour Company and Managing Director of
Buena Vista International Pvt Limited, a spices export Company. Functioned as
Dy. Managing Director of JANMABHOOMI Daily and as member of the Board
of Directors of several companies.
He had travelled to many countries all over the world on behalf of SBI and
Leela Group and as member of Spices Board delegations.
There shall be an executive committee comprising of
persons with appropriate background to implement the project.
Resource groups comprising of experts on a particular activity
would be constituted to guide and advise the members of
executive committee.
Wetland
Making Aranmula Kannadi
Vallapattu
Othara Padayani
PROJECTS FOR IMPLEMENTATION
We have identifed few heritage projects for implementation.
Heritage School
We are in the process of taking over a school for developing it as a heritage
school. Along with the normal academic curriculum, children from primary
school level will undergo a comprehensive education system where equal
attention is paid to physical, emotional and intellectual development to make
them dynamic and responsible citizens. This will make them meet the
challenges of global society while retaining the traditional values. Emphasis
is given on extracurricular activity which will help students develop their mind
and body. Students exchange programme with heritage schools abroad is also
part of our plan.
Heritage College and Institute
Apart from academically oriented courses such as degree, post graduate
degrees etc, the plan include professionally oriented courses such as X- Ray
technician, healthcare, pharmacy technician, nursing, etc. Appropriate
programmes will be designed to inculcate values such as integrity, honesty
respect for others, quality consciousness, passion for excellence etc.
Heritage Museum
This will showcase several artefacts of heritage value.
Besides items such as Aranmula Kannadi,
Thiruvonathoni, Chundan Vallam, Oars, Decorations etc.
which are special to Aranmula, the museum will display
historical items from various rulers, coins, title deeds in
Brass, murals, Paintings etc which the future generation
will value immensely. Attached to the Museum will be
a library and reading room with collection of books on
history, traditions, rituals, culture, archaeology, epics etc.
it is our plan to facilitate research on our heritage.
Heritage Treatment Centres
We have an unusually rich method of heritage
treatment in the form of Ayurveda. This form of
treatment has now received wide acceptance
all over the world because of its effectiveness
in certain ailments. Besides traditional Ayurvedic
treatment, our Heritage treatment centres will
provide for:
- Geriatric Ayurveda
- Holistic Medicine
- Psychiatric Rehabilitation
- De-addiction centres
- Fitness and Exercise programme
- Traditional nutrition and diet programmes
- Alternative medicine and therapies such as yoga, meditation etc.
Aranmula Jalotsavam
About 52 palliyodams (snake boats) participate in Aranmula Uthrittathi Jalotsavam.
Heritage Festival
Several of our traditional art forms are unknown to the new generation.
Not many artists are coming forward to learn and practice several of our
traditional art forms. Its our plan to conduct heritage festivals to popularise
some of our art forms such as Theyyam, a dance form which is part of cultural
heritage of North Malabar, Mudiyettu, a ritualistic and rural performing art,
Padayani, a ritualistic art form from central Travancore, Kathakali, Ottanthullal,
Koodiyattam, Kooth, Mohiniyattam, etc. The festival also will feature heritage
food from various part of India and other countries, exhibition of textiles,
paintings and handicrafts.
Sabari Balasramam Aranmula
Weekly Magazine
Its our plan to publish a weekly magazine to propagate nationalism, values, traditions,
lessons from history and our Vedic past.
Home for destitute Children
There are several children abandoned by parents for various reasons. They will be adopted and
provided a HOME with Love, Compassion and Values making them feel that there are people
in the society who care for them and they are wanted. They will be given education and brought up
as responsible citizens.
Home for Elders
With the advent of nuclear families, the elders are forced to fend for themselves. According to
available statistics, the life span also is increased. The children have to go to other places or
countries to make a living while the parents do not like to leave their familiar surroundings. There
are conficts in lifestyle, food habits, behaviour, language and upbringing which make the senior
citizen opt to continue independent life. They require love, security, attention and support which we
will provide in an atmosphere of heritage.
Home for destitute Women
We will provide shelter, protection and dignifed life to women who are deprived of them.
We will provide schemes to empower them.
SUSTAINABLE HERITAGE VILLAGE
All the projects mentioned earlier would form part of Sustainable Heritage Village being planned and developed with
Aranmula as its focus point. Villages around Aranmula would be brought under the scheme in a phased manner.
Village development involve;
a) Biogas plant to process waste from institutions as well as Household. The plant will generate energy and manure
for organic farming.
b) Encourage organic farming.
c) Generate non conventional energy.
d) Keep village clean and hygienic with the help of volunteers from Educational Institutions and Residents.
e) Evolve programs to develop harmony and cooperation among the residents.
f ) Preserve and propagate local knowledge on agriculture at treatment, construction social life etc.
Project Cost
Projects being taken up in frst phase are ;
(a) Heritage School
(b) Heritage Museum
(c) Sustainable Heritage Village
Other schemes will be taken up in the Second phase.
Cost for frst phase is estimated to be about Rs 10 Crores.
Support Required
For successful implementation of the projects we need support in
the form of men, materials and money. Support in any form will go
a long way in protecting our Heritage for future generation.
Aranmula Heritage Trust
Aranmula P O
Pathanamthitta 689 533
Website : aranmulaheritage.net
Email : heritagegramam@gmail.com
Kummanam Rajasekharan : 9447970315
R S Nair : 9447057290
Offce : 9656820303