Parakkode Block Panchayat

Introduction

Parakkode Block Panchayat, located in Adoor Taluk of Pathanamthitta District, is an intermediate-level rural local self-government institution established under the Kerala Panchayat Raj Act, 1994. Spread across an area of approximately 251.1 square kilometers, it serves as a vital link between the Gram Panchayats and the District Panchayat.

Early Roots

The region comprising Parakkode Block was traditionally under the administration of the Pandalam Royal Family and maintained historical connections with the Pandya Kingdom. The area possesses rich cultural and historical significance.

Parakkode Market (Parakkode Chantha)

Parakkode Market, one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in Kerala, is situated near Adoor. The market was renowned for the trade of hill produce and agricultural commodities.

Known as Anantharampuram Market, it was established by Diwan Raja Kesavadas and once served as a major commercial hub of Travancore. Although modern shopping complexes and malls have reduced its prominence, the market remains an important part of the region’s history.

During the royal era, the market functioned twice a week. Elderly residents still recall long rows of bullock carts carrying goods from Parakkode to markets across Kerala. It remains one of the most memorable chapters in the history of modern Adoor.

Chilanthiyambalam

The world's only known Chilanthiyambalam is located in Kodumon Panchayat of Pathanamthitta District. The Pallyara Devi Temple, situated about 1.5 kilometers east of Kodumon Junction on the Ezhamkulam–Kaipattoor Road, is popularly known as Chilanthiyambalam.

Many devotees visit the temple seeking relief from spider bites and related ailments. It is widely believed that offering prayers here can cure severe spider poisoning.

Legend of Chilanthiyambalam

The history and legend of Chilanthiyambalam are closely associated with Sakthibhadra, the author of the famous Sanskrit drama Ascharyachoodamani.

A renowned Brahmin family known as Chenneerkara Swaroopam once lived in Kodumon, and the Pallyara Devi Temple is believed to have been under their control.

According to local legend, the temple came to be known as Chilanthiyambalam following the spiritual liberation of a woman from the Sakthibhadra family. The story speaks of divine spiders weaving webs around her during her meditation, eventually leading to her attaining salvation.

Sakthibhadra

Sakthibhadra was the author of the renowned Sanskrit drama Ascharyachoodamani. He is believed to have been born in Kodumon, Pathanamthitta District.

Historians believe that he lived between the 7th and 11th centuries CE. The chapters of Ascharyachoodamani are still used in Koodiyattam performances.

Kodumon houses a memorial dedicated to Sakthibhadra, along with an ancient stone inscription that serves as an important historical record of his life.

Chandanappally Valiya Palli

Chandanappally Valiya Palli is one of the most important Christian pilgrimage centers in South Kerala. It stands as a symbol of communal harmony and attracts devotees irrespective of caste and religion.

The annual feast and the famous Chempeduppu festival, celebrated on May 7 and 8, are among the most significant religious events in the region.

The church, dedicated to Saint George, has evolved into a center of refuge and hope for countless people. In 2010, it was declared a Global Pilgrimage Centre.

Velu Thampi Dalawa Museum, Mannadi

Mannadi is a historically significant location in Kerala. It was here that the patriot Velu Thampi Dalawa made his final stand against British rule and sacrificed his life rather than surrender.

The Velu Thampi Dalawa Memorial Museum was inaugurated on 14 February 2010 in memory of this great freedom fighter.

The museum houses numerous historical artifacts, including ancient Buddha statues, traditional agricultural tools, old weapons, coins, and portraits of the rulers of Travancore.

Travancore Administration

In 1820, the region was formally integrated into the Kingdom of Travancore. Earlier, in 1809, Velu Thampi Dalawa chose death over capture by British forces at Mannadi, making the location a landmark in Kerala's history.

Formation of Pathanamthitta District

Historically part of the Quilon Division, the region later became part of Pathanamthitta District, which was officially formed on 1 November 1982.

Formation of the Block Panchayat

The modern Block Panchayat system in Kerala was institutionalized with the enactment of the Kerala Panchayat Raj Act in 1994.

This decentralized governance structure was designed to implement welfare, development, and economic programs across multiple Gram Panchayats. Like other Block Panchayats in Kerala, Parakkode functions within the three-tier Panchayat Raj system.

Gram Panchayats under Parakkode Block Panchayat

• Enadimangalam
• Erathu
• Ezhamkulam
• Kadampanad
• Kalanjoor
• Kodumon
• Pallikkal