Misplaced Pages

Thrissur district: Difference between revisions

Article snapshot taken from[REDACTED] with creative commons attribution-sharealike license. Give it a read and then ask your questions in the chat. We can research this topic together.
Browse history interactively← Previous editContent deleted Content addedVisualWikitext
Revision as of 11:47, 18 June 2006 edit213.42.2.28 (talk) →Places in Thrissur District← Previous edit Latest revision as of 17:23, 16 January 2025 edit undoPrimeBOT (talk | contribs)Bots2,079,652 editsm →top: Task 24: template replacement following a TFDTag: AWB 
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Short description|District in Kerala, India}}
:''For the town with the same name, see ''']'''''.


{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2019}}
{{India district infobox|
{{Use Indian English|date=September 2019}}
district_name=Thrissur |
{{Infobox settlement
image_map=Location_of_Thrissur_Kerala.png |
| name = Thrissur district
hq=Thrissur|
| other_name = Trichur district
latd = 10.52 |
| settlement_type = ]
longd=76.21 |
| image_skyline = {{Photomontage
state=Kerala |
| photo1a = Sunrise over the Pullu Padam with a Morning drizzle.jpg
abbreviation=IN-KL-8-XXXX |
| photo2a = Chimmini Forest (24191470004).jpg
collector=K.S. Premachandra Kurup |
| photo2b = Cape of Kodungallur.jpg
area=3,032 |
| photo3a = Sakthan Thampuran Palace, Thrissur.jpg
area_magnitude=9 |
| photo3b = Koothambalam at Kerala Kalamandalam.jpg
population=29,75,440 |
| photo4a = The View of the Athirapally Falls during the onset of Monsoon.jpg
population_year= 2001 |
| spacing = 1
population_density= 981 |
| color_border = black
footnotes=
| color = white
| size = 210
| foot_montage = '''Clockwise from top:'''<br />], Cape of ], ], ], ], ]
}}
| image_map = India Kerala Thrissur district.svg
| image_map1 = {{maplink |frame=yes
|frame-width=240 |frame-height=300 |frame-align=center
|text= '''Thrissur District'''
|type=shape |id=Q2429655
|stroke-colour=#C60C30
|stroke-width=2
|title=Thrissur District of Kerala
|type2=line|id2=Q1186|stroke-width2=1|stroke-colour2=#0000ff|title2=Kerala State
}}
| map_caption = '''Location in ]'''
| coordinates = {{coord|10.52|N|76.21|E|display=inline,title}}
| subdivision_type = Country
| subdivision_name = {{flag|India}}
| subdivision_type1 = ]
| subdivision_name1 = ]
| established_title = <!-- Established -->
| established_date =
| founder =
| named_for =
| seat_type = Headquarters
| seat = ]
| government_type =
| governing_body =
| leader_title1 = District Collector & District Magistrate
| leader_name1 = Arjun Pandian IAS
| leader_title2 = Police Commissioner (City)
| leader_name2 = R. Aadithya, IPS
| leader_title3 = S.P (Rural)
| leader_name3 = Aishwarya Dongre, IPS
| leader_title4 = Divisional Forest Officer, Thrissur
| leader_name4 = Kurra Srinivas IFS
| area_footnotes =
| area_total_km2 = 3032
| area_rank = ]
| elevation_footnotes =
| elevation_m =
| population_total = 3,243,170
| population_as_of = 2018
| population_footnotes = <ref name="tsrdemo_2018">{{Cite book|title=Annual Vital Statistics Report - 2018|publisher=Department of Economics and Statistics, Government of Kerala|year=2020|location=Thiruvananthapuram|pages=55|url=http://www.ecostat.kerala.gov.in/images/pdf/publications/Vital_Statistics/data/vital_statistics_2018.pdf}}</ref>
| population_density_km2 = 1070
| population_rank =
| population_demonym =
| demographics_type1 = Languages
| demographics1_title1 = Official
| timezone1 = ]
| utc_offset1 = +5:30
| postal_code_type = <!-- ] -->
| postal_code =
| registration_plate = '''KL-08''' ],<br /> '''KL-45''' ],<br /> '''KL-46''' ],<br /> '''KL-47''' ],<br /> '''KL-48''' ],<br /> '''KL-64''' ],<br /> '''KL-75''' ]
| website = {{URL|thrissur.nic.in}}
| nickname = '''''Cultural capital of Kerala'''''
| footnotes =
| demographics1_info1 = ], ]
| official_name =
| blank_info_sec1 = {{nowrap|{{increase}} 0.781<ref name="unhdi-gdl">{{Cite web|url=https://www.in.undp.org/content/india/en/home/library/hdr/human-development-reports/State_Human_Development_Reports/Kerala.html|title=Kerala &#124; UNDP in India|website=UNDP}}</ref> ({{color|Green| High}})}}
| blank_name_sec1 = ] {{nobold|(2005)}}
}} }}


'''Thrissur''' ({{IPA|ml|t̪riʃ(ː)uːr|lang|Thrissur.ogg}}), anglicised as '''Trichur''', is one of the ] in the ] of ]. It is situated in the central region of the state. Spanning an area of about {{cvt|3,032|km2}}, the district is home to over 9% of Kerala's population.
] festival.]]


Thrissur district is bordered by the districts of ] and ] to the north, the districts of ] and ] to the south and ] to the east. The ] lies to the west and ] stretches towards the east. It is part of the historical ], which has been trading internationally since ancient times. The main language spoken is ].
'''Thrissur''' (]: തൃശു൪) is a city situated in the central part of ] state, ]. It is an important cultural centre, and is known as the "cultural capital" of Kerala. It is famous for the ] festival, the most colourful and spectacular temple festival of Kerala. The festival is held near the ], in April or May. It has a large number of well known temples around, including the temple town of ].


Thrissur district was formed on 1 July 1949, with the headquarters at ] City. Thrissur is known as the cultural capital of Kerala, and the land of ]s. The district is known for its ancient ]s, ], and ]s. ] is the most colourful temple festival in Kerala.
The name '''Thrissur''' is derived from 'Tri-Shiva-Perur' (]: തൃശ്ശിവേപരൂ൪) , which means the place with three famous Siva temples which are said to be 1)the Vadakkunathan, 2) Kottapuram Siva temple and 3)Punkunnam Siva temple. (Alternately, the name can be parsed as 'Thiru-Siva-Perur', the place with the holy name of Siva). Thrissur was also known as '''Vrishabhadripuram''' and '''Ten Kailasam''' in ancient days.


==History== == Etymology ==
The term 'Thrissur' is the shortened form of the word 'Thrissivaperur' which means "the town in the name of Lord Siva". The town is built on an elevated ground, at the apex of which is the famous Vadakkumnatha Temple. A place of great antiquity, Thrissur was also known as Vrishabhadripuram and 'Ten Kailasam' in classical Sanskrit texts.<ref name="trichur.com">{{Cite web|title=Trichur, Trichur kerala, Trichur pooram, Hotels in Thrissur, Trichur map, Thrissur Properties, Trichur Hotels, Trichur Real Estate|url=https://www.trichur.com/artandculture1.htm|access-date=2020-09-09|website=www.trichur.com}}</ref>
From ancient times, Thrissur district has played a significant part in the political history of ]. The early political history of the district is interlinked with that of the Cheras of the Sangam age, who ruled over vast portions of Kerala with their capital at ]. The whole of the present Thrissur district was included in the early ] empire.


== History ==
The district can claim to have played a significant part in fostering the trade relations between Kerala and the outside world in the ancient and
{{Main|History of Thrissur}}
medieval period. It can also claim to have played an important part in fostering cultural relations and in laying the foundation of a ] and composite culture in this part of the country. ] which had the unique distinction of being the 'Premium Emporium India', also belongs to the signal honour of having first given shelter to all the three communities which have contributed to the prosperity of ]. These three communities are the ], the ] and the ].
] with ] prepared by ] in 1816.]]
From ancient times, Thrissur District has played a part in the political history of Kerala. The early political history of the District is interlinked with that of the ] of the Sangam age, who ruled over vast portions of Kerala with their capital at ]. The whole of the present Thrissur District was included in the early Chera Empire.<ref name="trichur.com"/> The District can claim to have played a part in fostering the trade relations between Kerala and the outside world in the ancient and medieval period.{{citation needed|date=July 2020}}


], which had the distinction of being the "Premium Emporium of India", gave shelter to all the three communities which have contributed to the prosperity of ]. These three communities are the ], the ] and the ].
The history of Thrissur district from the 9th to the 12th centuries is the history of Kulasekharas of Mahodayapuram and the history since 12th century is the history of the rise and growth of Perumpadappu Swarupam. In the course of its long and chequered history, the Perumpadappu Swarupam had its capital at different places.


The Thrissur district was ruled by the Perumal dynasty from the 9th to the 12th centuries and following that was part of the ].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Thampuran |first=Ashalatha |title=History of the Cochin Royal Family: Tracing the Journey of Perumpadappu Swarūpam |url=https://www.sahapedia.org/history-cochin-royal-family-tracing-journey-perumpadappu-swarupam |access-date=2024-12-03 |website=Sahapedia |language=en}}</ref>
According to the literary works of the period, the Perumpadappu Swarupam had its headquarters at Mahodayapuyram and had a number of Naduvazhies in southern Kerala. Central Kerala recognised the supremacy of the Perumpadappu Moopil and he is even referred to as the 'Kerala Chakravarthi' in the 'Sivavilasam' and some other works.


In 1790 ] (1790–1805) popularly known as ] ascended the throne of ]. With the accession of this ruler the ] or modern period in the history of Cochin and of the District began. Saktan Tampuran was mainly responsible for the destruction of the power of the feudal Nair chieftains and increase of royal power. Another force in the public life of ] and its suburbs was the ] community and ] of royal ancestry. A large part of the Thrissur Taluk was for long under the domination of the Yogiatiripppads, the ecclesiastical heads of the Vadakkunnathan and Perumanam Devaswoms.{{citation needed|date=February 2022}}
<!-- Unsourced image removed: ] at ]]] -->


The wave of nationalism and political consciousness which swept through the country since the early decades of this century has its repercussions in the District as well. Thrissur District has been in the forefront of the country-wide movement for temple entry and abolition of untouchability. The ''] Satyagraha'' is a memorable episode in the history of the national movement.{{citation needed|date=July 2020}}
One of the landmarks in the history of the Perumpadappu Swarupam is the foundation of a new era called Pudu Vaipu era. The Pudu Vaipu era is traditionally believed to have commenced from the date on which the island of Vypeen was thrown from the sea.


== Demographics ==
The 14th and 15th centuries constituted a period of aggressive wars in the course of which the ] of Calicut acquired a large part of the present Thrissur district. In the subsequent centuries the ] dominated the scene. By the beginning of the 17th century the Portuguese power in Kerala was on the verge of collapse.
{{historical populations|11=1901|12=6,83,266|13=1911|14=7,69,702|15=1921|16=8,13,758|17=1931|18=9,93,913|19=1941|20=11,54,598|21=1951|22=14,03,150|23=1961|24=16,88,333|25=1971|26=21,28,877|27=1981|28=24,39,633|29=1991|30=27,37,311|31=2001|32=29,74,232|33=2011|34=31,21,200|35=2018|36=32,43,170|percentages=pagr|footnote=source:<ref></ref>|align=center}}


Source: Official Statistics 2007<ref>Official ] of ] district http://www.tsr.kerala.gov.in/barefacts.htm {{Dead link|date=August 2022}}</ref>
About this time other ] powers like the ] and the English appeared on the scene and challenged the Portuguese. Internal dissension in the Perumpadappu Swarupam helped the Dutch in getting a footing on the Kerala coast. As the Kerala chiefs were conscious of the impending doom of the Portuguese, they looked upon the Dutch as the rising power and extended a hearty welcome to them.
{| class="wikitable"
!width=175|District
!width=125|Thrissur
|-
|Area
|3,027
|-
|Population (2011)
|31,21,200
|-
|Males
|14,80,763
|-
|Females
|16,40,437
|-
|Sex ratio : Females/1000
|1107
|-
|Density of Population
|1031
|-
|Per Capita Income (in Rs)
|21,362
|-
|Literacy rate
|95.08%; Male 96.78%; Female 93.56%
|-
|Coastal line in km.
|54
|-
|Water bodied area in ha.
|5,573
|-
|Forest area in ha.
|103619
|-
|}


According to the ], Thrissur district has a ] of 3,243,170,<ref name="tsrdemo_2018"/> roughly equal to the nation of ]<ref name="cia">{{cite web | author = US Directorate of Intelligence | title = Country Comparison:Population | url = https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/rankorder/2119rank.html | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070613004507/https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/rankorder/2119rank.html | url-status = dead | archive-date = 13 June 2007 | access-date = 2011-10-01 | quote =Mongolia 3,133,318 July 2011 est.}}</ref> or the US state of ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://2010.census.gov/2010census/data/apportionment-pop-text.php|title=2010 Resident Population Data|publisher=U. S. Census Bureau|access-date=2011-09-30| quote =Iowa 3,046,355}}</ref> The ] gives it a ranking of 113th in India (out of a total of ]).<ref name=districtcensus>{{cite web |title=District Census Hand Book: Thrissur |url=https://censusindia.gov.in/nada/index.php/catalog/666/download/2312/DH_2011_3207_PART_A_DCHB_THRISSUR.pdf |website=] |publisher=]}}</ref> The district has a population density of {{convert| 1026 |PD/sqkm|PD/sqmi}}.<ref name=districtcensus /> Its ] over the decade 2001–2011 was 4.58%.<ref name=districtcensus /> Thrissur has a ] of 1107 ] for every 1000 males,<ref name=districtcensus /> and a ] of 95.32%. 67.17% of the population lives in urban areas. Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes make up 10.39% and 0.30% of the population respectively.<ref name=districtcensus /> Thrissur was also the second highest urbanized district in ] after ].<ref>{{Cite web | url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011-prov-results/paper2-vol2/data_files/kerala/Chapter_IV.pdf | title=Chapter IV - Trends in Urbanization | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191115153440/http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011-prov-results/paper2-vol2/data_files/kerala/Chapter_IV.pdf | archive-date=2019-11-15}}</ref>
The decadence and consequential want of solidarity opened the flood gates of aggression. ] and ] figured very prominently during the period. In ] Raja Rama Varma (1790-1805) popularly known as Sakthan Thampuran ascended the throne of Cochin. With the accession of this ruler the modern period in the history of ] and of the district begin. ] was the most powerful maharaja as the very name indicate. He is the architect of Thrissur town. Sakthan Thampuran ascended the throne just before the conclusion of a treaty with the ]. According to that treaty, Cochin threw off all allegiance to Tippu Sultan and became a tributary to the Company. The wave of nationalism and political consciousness which swept through the country since the early decades of this century had its repercussion in the district as well.


] is the predominant language, spoken by 98.91% of the population as of 2011.<ref name="languages">{{Cite web |title=Table C-16 Population by Mother Tongue: Kerala |url=https://censusindia.gov.in/nada/index.php/catalog/10209/download/13321/DDW-C16-STMT-MDDS-3200.XLSX |website=www.censusindia.gov.in |publisher=]}}</ref>
Even as early as ] a committee of the ] was functioning in Thrissur. In the Civil Disobedience Movement of 1921, several persons in Thrissur town and other places in the district took active part and courted arrest. Thrissur district can claim the honour of having been in the forefront of the countrywide movement for temple entry and abolition of untouchability. The famous ] is a memorable episode in the history of the National Movement.


=== Religion ===
The Government of Cochin under the guidance of Sri. R. K. Shanmughom Chetti followed a policy of ]. By decree the public demand for the introduction of responsible Government in the State grew strong. In August 1938 Cochin announced a scheme for reforming the State legislature and introducing a system as per the ] Act of 1919 in the British Indian provinces. The administration of certain departments was entrusted to an elected member of the legislature to be nominated by the ]. In the elections to the reformed legislature two political parties, viz. the Cochin State Congress and the Cochin Congress won 12 and 13 seats respectively. With the help of a few independents Ambat Sivarama Menon who was the leader of the Cochin Congress Party took up office as Minister under the scheme in June 1938. On his death in August 1938 Dr. A.R. Menon was appointed as Minister. When the State Legislature passed a vote of non-confidence against him, Dr. Menon resigned office on February 25,1942 and was succeeded by Sri T.K. Nair who continued in office till July 11,1945.
{{bar box
|title = Religions in Thrissur district (2011)<ref name="religion"/>
|titlebar=#Fcd116
|left1=Religion
|right1=Percent
|float=right
|bars=
{{bar percent|]|darkorange|58.42}}
{{bar percent|]|dodgerblue|24.27}}
{{bar percent|]|green|17.07}}
{{bar percent|Other or not stated|black|0.24}}
}}


Hinduism is the majority religion in Thrissur, with 58.4% of the population. Christians and Muslims form significant minority.<ref name="religion">{{Cite web|date=2011|title=Table C-01: Population by religious community: Kerala |url=https://censusindia.gov.in/nada/index.php/catalog/11379/download/14492/DDW32C-01%20MDDS.XLS |website=] |publisher=]}}</ref>
The introduction of ] did not satisfy the political aspirations of the people of Cochin. The idea of full responsible Government on the basis of adult franchise had caught their imagination. On January 26, 1941 a new political organisation called the Cochin State Praja Mandal took shape on the initiative of a few young politicians under the leadership of V.R. Krishnan Ezhuthachan.


==== Hindus ====
The ] Movement of ] had its echoes in the district. After the release of the leaders from jail in ], the Cochin State Praja Mandal pursued its organisational activities more vigorously. In the elections to the State Legislature in ] it won 12, of the 19 seats contested by its candidates. At the annual conference of the Praja Mandal held at ] in ] it was decided to start a state wide movement for the achievement of a responsible Government. The State Legislature was scheduled to meet on ], and it was decided that the day should be observed all over the State as 'Responsible Government Day'. In pursuance of this decision, meetings and demonstrations were held all over the State demanding the end of Dewan's rule and the transfer of full political power to the elected representatives of the people. The Maharaja of Cochin announced in August 1946 his decision to transfer all departments of the State Government except law and order and finance to the control of Ministers responsible to the State Legislature. In co-operation with other parties in the State Legislature, the Cochin State Praja Mandal decided to accept the offer. Consequently the first popular Cabinet of Cochin consisting of Panampilli Govinda Menon, C.R. Iyyunni, K. Ayyappan and T.K. Nair assumed office.
The ] community consists of mainly ]s, ]s, ], ]s (including the local ]s and migrants like ]s and ]) etc. The Scheduled Castes, around 12% of the population of the district, also form a section among the Hindus of the district.


] is a ] shrine dedicated to the Lord ], located in the town of ] in ], ]. It is one of the most important pilgrim centres for ] in ].{{sfnp|Logan|1887|p=ccccxi–ccccxii}}
The first step towards the achievement of the goal of 'Aikyakerala' was taken with the integration of 'Travancore Cochin' States in July 1949. With the linguistic reorganisation of States in India, in November ] the Kerala State came into existence.


==== Christians ====
==Geography==
The ] (] and ]), ] and ] are the main sections of the ] Community in the district. Catholics constitute 90% of the Christian population of the district. ], a town in the northern part of the district is the center for the Orthodox, ] (Thozhiyoor church), ] and ]. A notable church in the area is ].
<!-- Unsourced image removed: ] -->


According to ] tradition, the Palayur church was established in 52&nbsp;AD by ], one of the ] of ].<ref>{{cite book |last=Menon|first=A. Sreedhara|author-link=A. Sreedhara Menon| title = Kerala District Gazetteers: Trichur, Kerala, Volume 7|year=1962| publisher = Superintendent of Govt. Presses| url=https://indianculture.gov.in/gazettes/kerala-district-gazetteers-trichur|pages=72, 100}}</ref> It is the first church in India, and Saint Thomas performed the first ] in India here.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Sheshadri|first=Veena|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=5TmVAQAAQBAJ&dq=palayoor+church&pg=PT52|title=India: A to Z|year=2013|isbn=9789351184263}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=c79aDwAAQBAJ&dq=palayoor+church&pg=PT130|title=Limca Book of Records: India at Her Best|publisher=Hachette UK|year=2018|isbn=9789351952404}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal|title=Ponnani Taluk|journal=]|volume=II|year=1887|url=https://archive.org/details/malabar_manual_volume2/page/n421/mode/1up|last=Logan|first=William|author-link=William Logan (author)|page=ccccxi}}</ref> It is part of the ] (seven major churches) that he established in India.<ref>{{cite journal|title=The People: Religion: Christianity|journal=]|volume=I|year=1887|url=https://archive.org/details/malabarmanual0000loga/page/18/mode/2up|first=Logan|last=William|author-link=William Logan (author)|page=199}}</ref> The original small church structure has been retained at the original site.<ref>{{cite journal|title=Two Copper Plate Records from Palaiyur|journal=Travancore Archaeological Series|volume=IV Part I|year=1927|url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.277149/page/n97/mode/2up|first=A. S. Ramanatha|last=Ayyar|pages=84–91}}</ref>
Thrissur is situated in south western india {{coor d|10.52|N|76.21|E|}} and is in the central part of ] state, ]. Thrissur is at sea level and spans an area of about 66.15&nbsp;]. The center of the city is the ] ] located on a small hillock.


==== Muslims ====
The city enjoys a tropical climate, the monsoons start in June. The months of April-May can get pretty humid which is also one of the best time to visit the city for the famed ]. The best weather is from October to February.
]s live predominantly in the coastal belt of the district, from north Punnayoorkkulam to South Azhikode. They are dominant in ] and ], in good in numbers ], Kaipamangalam and ] areas. ]s are the major section in Muslim community.


The first mosque in India is claimed to be ] in ]. Legend claims that it was built in 629 CE, which makes it the oldest mosque in the ] which is still in use. It was built by ], Persian tābiʿūn of the Islamic prophet Muhammad, on the orders of the successor of ], ] of modern-day Kerala. The mosque was constructed in Kerala style with hanging lamps.{{Citation needed|date=August 2022}}<gallery widths="180">
==Culture==
File:Vadakkumnathan Temple.jpg|] during the ] festival
] of ]-caparisoned ]s at the ]. ]s are ] ]-centered festivals popular among both Keralites and tourists.]]
File:Guruvayoor Temple 1.jpg|Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple
File:Cheraman Masjid 2.jpg|] Oldest mosque in india
File:St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Church, Palayoor.jpg|Palavur Church


</gallery>
Thrissur is built around a hillock, crowned by the famous Vadakkunathan (Siva) Temple, believed to have been founded by legendary ]. The temple is a classical example of Kerala style of architecture and houses several sacted shrines. It is believed that ] spent his last days here.


== Geography and climate ==
Thrissur also has added to its name The '']'', popularly known as the ''New Church''. It is the biggest church in ]. The first church of India is also situated in Thrissur, the St. Thomas church at Palayoor. The Metropolitan of the ] (the name used for the ] in ]) is also headquartered in Thrissur, and many religious publications are printed by Mar Narsai Press. The largest christian piligrim centre in the district, St.Joseph's Shrine is situated at Pavaratty.
]


Thrissur is situated in southwestern India ({{coord|10.52|N|76.21|E|}}) and is in the central part of ]. Thrissur is at sea level and spans an area of about {{cvt|3032|km2}}. It is bounded on the north by small parts of ] district, on the east and north by ] district, on the east by small parts of ] district of ], on the south by ] district, and on the west by the Arabian Sea ({{cvt|54|km}}). Descending from the heights of the ] in the east, the land slopes towards the west forming three distinct natural divisions – the highlands, the plains and the sea board. ] is the highest point in Trissur situated in the border of ] of Palakkad.
] ] is believed to have landed in Kodungalloor (Formerly called Muziris) in 52 AD. The ] Thomas Church established by him houses ancient relics.


The ], the ], the ], the ] (main tributary of the Karuvannur River) and the Ponnani (]) are the main river systems in the district. They take their origin from the mountains on the east, and flow westward and discharge into the ]. There are a number of tributaries also joining these main rivers. There are waterfalls such as ] which is widely known as the "Indian Niagara" nowadays. This is the only district in Kerala with the presence of both Periyar and Bharathappuzha, though they flow only a small distance through the district.
] is situated 25 Km north-west of the city, here the famous Sree Krishna temple is situated, is one of the most sacred and important pilgrim centres of India. The historic temple is shrouded in mystery. According to belief, the temple was created by Guru - the preceptor of the Gods and Vayu - the God of winds.


The district has a tropical humid climate with an oppressive hot season and plentiful and seasonal rainfall. Annual rainfall is about {{cvt|3000|mm}}. The hot season from March to May is followed by the South West Monsoon season from June to September. The period from December to February is the North East Monsoon season. However the rain stops by the end of December and the rest of the period is generally dry.
The major cultural attraction is the ] festival, celebrated during April - May, the Elephant Umbrella competition is spectacular, as richly caparisoned elephants carrying ceremonial umbrellas take the deity around the main temple. The passionate drum concerts and the spectacular firework displays are all part of the Pooram celebration
{{clear}}


== Culture ==
], ] and ] are head quartered at Thrissur making the epithet 'cultural capital of Kerala' more meaningful.
] at ]]]
]]]
Thrissur is known as cultural capital of ].The district is known for the ].
An ancient cultural center, Thrissur houses the ], the ], the ] and the ]. The town is built around a hillock, crowned by the ] (Siva) Temple. The temple is a classical example of Kerala style of architecture and houses several sacred shrines.


Thrissur also has added to its name The '']'', popularly known as the ''New Church''(Puthen Palli). It is the third tallest church in ] and the tallest in ]. The first two churches of India are also situated in Thrissur, the ] and the ]. The Metropolitan of the ] (the name used for the ] in ]) is also headquartered in Thrissur, and many religious publications are printed by Mar Narsai Press. The largest Christian pilgrim center in the district, ] is situated at Pavaratty.
== Some of the Hindu temples around Thrissur==
There is a legend which tells ] ] was landed in ], ] in 52 AD. The ] established by him houses many ancient relics. ] in ] is the birth place of the Catholic Saint ].
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*] ]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]


According to myth, ] and 20 others who were the followers ], the founder of ], first landed in ] in Thrissur district when they came to India. Islam received royal patronage in some places here, and later spread to other parts of India. He built the mosque ]<ref>{{cite book |author=Ron Geaves |title=Islam and Britain: Muslim Mission in an Age of Empire |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=H1s1DwAAQBAJ&pg=PA6 |year=2017 |publisher=Bloomsbury |isbn=978-1-4742-7175-2 |pages=6 }}</ref> which makes it the first mosque in India.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/Mosque-in-Kerala-dates-back-to-the-Prophets-time/articleshow/48138989.cms|title=Mosque in Kerala dates back to the Prophet's time|website=]|date=20 July 2015 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/tinkering-with-the-past/article7442583.ece|title=Tinkering with the past|newspaper=The Hindu|date=20 July 2015|last1=Anandan|first1=S.}}</ref>
==Institutions of Higher Education ==
Major Colleges are:
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]


], home to the Sree Krishna Temple, is {{cvt|25|km}} to the north of the city. It is a sacred place not only for Keralites but for Hindus all over the world as well. The adjacent towns of ] and ] are important centers of Muslims and Christians respectively. The Temple at ] is another important place of worship. This ancient temple is one of the few Temples dedicated to Lord Srirama in Kerala. Incidentally, two other temples dedicated to Lord Rama, viz., the Thiruvilwamala Temple and the Kadavallur Temple, fall in Thrissur district. Thirumangalam Temple situated at Thirumangalam desam, Engandiyur, Thrissur District. The Temple facing to Gurvayur Ernakulam National Highway. In this temple, there are two idols, one is Siva and the other is Maha Vishnu. Both have same the importance. But Siva is the main Idol. Because of this the temple listed in the 108 Siva temples list. The temple faces to the eastern side and has very good Sreekovil.
] is situated 2.5 kilometers away from ] town. Established in 1958, GEC is one of the premier institutes in the field of technical education. The institution offers B.Tech courses in 7 branches and M.Tech and MCA courses too.


], the capital of the erstwhile ], is a region of great archeological and historical significance. The ] here attracts thousands of devotees from all over Kerala. The Cheraman Juma Masjid, believed to be the oldest Mosque in India is situated here. ], where the only Bharatha Temple in India is located, is another place of importance. The Unnayi Warrier Smaraka Kalanilayam which is located near the Koodalmanickyam Temple is an important center of Kathakali Learning. Since ancient times Thrissur has been the most important center of Vedic Learning in Kerala. Yagas are still conducted in her soil with the same fervour as they used to be. The only centre of traditional Vedic Learning left in Kerala is situated at the heart of Thrissur Town.
] is located at ], about 9 km away from Thrissur. One of the important animal research institution in the State ] is located at ], 5 km away from Thrissur.


== Education ==
The Kerala Forest Research Institute () is established under the Science and Technology policy adopted by the Government of Kerala as an autonomous institution to undertake research in areas like forestry, biodiversity etc., that are vital to the development of Kerala State. The Institute was registered as a society on ], ] under the ]-Cochin Literary, Scientific and Charitable Societies Act, ]. The institution fulfills number of economic, social and environmental objectives set by the Government.
{{Main|Education in Thrissur District}}


==Places in Thrissur District== == Administration of Thrissur ==
{{main|Administration of Thrissur district}}
*]
]
*] -
The district is divided into two Revenue Sub Divisions; Thrissur and Irinjalakuda and is headed by Revenue Divisional Officer (RDO)
*]
*Taluks under Thrissur Revenue Division: Thrissur, Chavakkad, Talappilly, Kunnamkulam
*]
*Taluks under Irinjalakuda Revenue Division: Mukundapuram, Chalakudy, Kodungallur
*]
'''Thrissur District''' has four types of administrative hierarchies:
*]
* Taluk and Village administration managed by the state government of Kerala
*]
* Panchayath Administration managed by the local bodies
*]
* Parliament Constituencies for the union government of India
*]
* Assembly Constituencies for the state government of Kerala
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]


{|cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" border="1" align="right" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 2px #DEE8F1 solid"
==Media==
|-
Kerala's leading ], ] and ] have Thrissur edition published from Thrissur.
|style="background-color:#A1C2CF; color:#FFFFFF; text-align:center;" |'''Taluks & its Headquarters'''
Athani
The new Medical college is situated here.


{| cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" border="1" style="background-color:#FFFFFF; border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px #BEE8F1 solid"
==External links==
|]
*
|style="text-align:center;" |''']'''
*
|----
*
|]
*
|style="text-align:center;" |''']'''
|----
|]
|style="text-align:center;" |''']'''
|----
|]
|style="text-align:center;" |''']'''
|----
|]
|style="text-align:center;" |''']'''
|----
|]
|style="text-align:center;" |''']'''
|----
|]
|style="text-align:center;" |''']'''
|}
|}


{| cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" border="1" align="right" style="background-color:#FFFFFF;border-collapse: collapse; border: 2px #DEE8F1 solid"
==Photo gallery of Trissur District==
|-
<gallery>
|style="background-color:#A1C2CF; color:#FFFFFF; text-align:center;" |'''Municipalities'''
Image:Elephant Saluting.jpg|An elephant saluting ] during ].

Image:Anakotta1.jpg|] at ], ] - 27 km from ].
{| cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" border="1" style=" background-color:#FFFFFF;border-collapse: collapse; border:2px #DEE8F1 solid"
<!-- Unsourced image removed: Image:Vadakkum.jpg|The ] in ]. ]. -->
|style="text-align:center;" |]
Image:Gurovayoor.jpg|] entrance - 25 km from ].
|----
|style="text-align:center;" |]
|----
|style="text-align:center;" |]
|----
|style="text-align:center;" |]
|----
|style="text-align:center;" |]
|----
|style="text-align:center;" |]
|----
|style="text-align:center;" |]
|}
|}

There are 13 ] from the district of ]: ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], Puthukad, ], ], ] and ]. There are two parliament constituencies: ] and Chalakudy. ] is the Thrissur MP and ] is the Chalakudy MP. Thrissur municipal corporation is the only ] in the district. For administrative purposes, the district of ] is divided into two Revenue Divisions and seven ]. These seven taluk centres are administrative hubs for 255 villages in Thrissur.

==Major Towns==
*'''Thalappilly taluk:''' ], ], Thruvilwamala, ], Cheruthuruthi, ]
*'''Kunnakulam taluk:''' ], Kechery, Perumpilavu, Pazhanji
*'''Chavakad taluk:''' ], Guruvayoor, Vadanappilly, Triprayar
*'''Thrissur taluk:''' ], Arimbur, Kuthiran, ]
*'''Kodungallur taluk:''' ], Perinjanam, Moonupeedika
*'''Mukundapuram taluk:''' ], Puthukkad, Mala
*'''Chalakudy taluk:''' ], Muringoor, Meloor, Kodakara, Koratty

== Media ==
The first newspaper which published from Thrissur was ''Lokamanyan'' in 1920. Then came ''Deenabandhu'' in 1941 and '']'' in 1976. Major Malayalam ] published in Thrissur include '''']'', '']'', '']'', '']'', ] and ]. A number of evening papers are also published from the city. Newspapers in other regional languages like Hindi, ], Tamil and ] are also sold in large numbers.

==Politics==
{|class="wikitable sortable" style="font-size:95%;"
|+ ] Constituencies from Thrissur district (13)
!width="20px" |Sl no.
!width="75px" |Constituency
!width="85px" |MLA
!width="35px" |Party
!width="35px" |Alliance
|-
| 1 ||] ||] ||style="background:{{party color|Communist Party of India (Marxist)}}; color:white;"|CPI(M)||{{legend2|{{party color|Left Democratic Front (Kerala)}}|]|border=solid 1px #AAAAAA}}
|-
| 2 ||] ||] ||style="background:{{party color|Communist Party of India (Marxist)}}; color:white;"|CPI(M)||{{legend2|{{party color|Left Democratic Front (Kerala)}}|]|border=solid 1px #AAAAAA}}
|-
| 3 ||] ||] ||style="background:{{party color|Communist Party of India (Marxist)}}; color:white;"|CPI(M)||{{legend2|{{party color|Left Democratic Front (Kerala)}}|]|border=solid 1px #AAAAAA}}
|-
| 4 || ] ||] ||style="background:{{party color|Communist Party of India (Marxist)}}; color:white;"|CPI(M)||{{legend2|{{party color|Left Democratic Front (Kerala)}}|]|border=solid 1px #AAAAAA}}
|-
| 5 ||] ||] ||style="background:{{party color|Communist Party of India (Marxist)}}; color:white;"|CPI(M)||{{legend2|{{party color|Left Democratic Front (Kerala)}}|]|border=solid 1px #AAAAAA}}
|-
| 6 ||] ||] ||style="background:{{party color|Communist Party of India}}; color:white;"|CPI||{{legend2|{{party color|Left Democratic Front (Kerala)}}|]|border=solid 1px #AAAAAA}}
|-
| 7 ||] ||] ||style="background:{{party color|Communist Party of India}}; color:white;"|CPI||{{legend2|{{party color|Left Democratic Front (Kerala)}}|]|border=solid 1px #AAAAAA}}
|-
| 8 ||] ||] ||style="background:{{party color|Communist Party of India}}; color:white;"|CPI||{{legend2|{{party color|Left Democratic Front (Kerala)}}|]|border=solid 1px #AAAAAA}}
|-
| 9 || ]|| ] ||style="background:{{party color|Communist Party of India}}; color:white;"|CPI||{{legend2|{{party color|Left Democratic Front (Kerala)}}|]|border=solid 1px #AAAAAA}}
|-
| 10 ||] ||] ||style="background:{{party color|Communist Party of India (Marxist)}}; color:white;"|CPI(M)||{{legend2|{{party color|Left Democratic Front (Kerala)}}|]|border=solid 1px #AAAAAA}}
|-
| 11 || ] ||] ||style="background:{{party color|Communist Party of India (Marxist)}}; color:white;"|CPI(M)||{{legend2|{{party color|Left Democratic Front (Kerala)}}|]|border=solid 1px #AAAAAA}}
|-
| 12 || ]||] ||style="background-color:{{party color|Indian National Congress}}; color:white;"|INC||{{legend2|{{party color|United Democratic Front (Kerala)}}|]|border=solid 1px #AAAAAA}}
|-
| 13 || ] ||] ||style="background:{{party color|Communist Party of India}}; color:white;"|CPI||{{legend2|{{party color|Left Democratic Front (Kerala)}}|]|border=solid 1px #AAAAAA}}
|}

== Industries ==

Thrissur is known for the power ] industry and the ] Mills like the ''Alagappa Textiles'' in ], ''Kerala Lakshmi Mills'' at ], ''Rajgopal Textiles'' at ], ''Sitaram Spinning and Weaving Mills'' Thrissur, ''Vanaja Textiles'' at ] (now defunct), ''Bhagavathy Spinning Mills'' at ] and ''Kunnath Textiles'' at Thrissur. Thrissur are engaged in the manufacture of hosiery products.

], mountain]]

The ] and the ] industry offer employment for many people in the district. The first ] in the state was erected at Trichur (1905). Most of the ] is brought down from the forests to Thrissur and ], which are the most important timber marts in the District. ] is a developing industry in Thrissur and ''Darlco Cannings'' and ''Kayee Plantations Cannings''; both have major units at Thrissur. The ''Thrissur Fruits and Vegetables Marketing Society'' are establishing a canning industrial unit at ] and it is going on very successfully. Besides all these the ''match stick industry'', ], ] etc. give Thrissur its fame as a bustling industrial centre. The first Worker's ] of the state was opened in Thrissur (1957).

The 400 kV Electric Power Station at Madakkathara near ] is the major electrical hub connecting the ] electrical power system to the national electrical grid. The station serves more than 30% of the state's electrical energy requirements and acts as the principal feed to the northern half of Kerala.

], a census town at south of Thrissur city is an important centre of Khadi and Village Industries.

== Places of interest ==
{{See also|List of tourist attractions in Thrissur}}
] – {{cvt|30|km}} from ] City.]]
]
* ] ({{cvt|63|km}} from Thrissur City): This 80 feet high waterfall at the threshold of the Sholayar ranges is a picnic spot. Two amusement parks – DreamWorld and SilverStorm – are located nearby.
* ] : Just a short drive from ] is close to dense forests and a part of the ] river.
* ] : This Perennial River is the 5th Longest river in Kerala and the richest river in fish diversity perhaps in India.
* ] ({{cvt|23|km}} from city): It is the largest elephant park in the world, with over 60 elephants.
* ]: ({{cvt|20|km}} from city) It is a good picnic spot. The dam was started as an irrigation project for the surrounding villages in Thrissur. At the same time, it catered the drinking water needs of the population of Thrissur City. It serves as an irrigation dam, reaching out to the paddy fields in and around Thrissur city. Built across the Manali River. Elephants may be seen on the bank of Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary, established in 1958 covering 125 square kilometres (48 sq mi).
* ]: A natural reserve and tourist spot with an irrigation dam.
* ]
* Peruvanmala : A natural hillock with beautiful greenery, spread over an area of almost 50 acres, is located at Kechery.
* ] ({{cvt|24|km}} from city): It is a good picnic spot built over Kechery River .
* ]: This beach is around {{cvt|23|km}} from town of Thrissur near by Nattika village.
* ] ({{cvt|35|km}} from city)
* ] ({{cvt|30|km}}): It is in ] and was founded by the Poet ], to encourage the study of the ancient arts of Kerala such as ] and ].
* ]
* ] ({{convert|2|km|disp=sqbr|abbr=on}}): Opened in 1885, it is a {{convert|13.5|acre|adj=on}} big zoo. The zoo is home for various animals, reptiles and birds.

== Important towns ==
]
* ]
*]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]

== List of villages ==
{{Main|List of villages in Thrissur district}}
]

== Gallery ==
<gallery>File:Perunal 028.JPG|Perunal, Thrissur Dt
File:Gurovayoor.jpg|] entrance – 25&nbsp;km from ] City.
File:Vadumnathan-one.jpg|East Gate of ].
File:Poothan thira (1).jpg|] for the Machattu Vela festival, near Wadakkanchery.
File:Muthuvara Shiva Temple.JPG|Muthuvara Shiva Temple.
</gallery> </gallery>


== Notes ==
{{Districts of Kerala}}
{{Reflist}}

==Further reading==
* {{Citation
| author = U. Sivaraman Nair | year=1952
| title= 1951 Census Handbook- Trichur District | publisher=Travancore-Cochin Government Press
| location = Trivandrum
| url= http://lsi.gov.in:8081/jspui/bitstream/123456789/5611/1/23588_1951_TRI.pdf
}}
* {{Citation
| author = M. K. Devassy | year=1965
| title= 1961 Census Handbook- Trichur District | publisher=Directorate of Census Operations, Kerala and The Union Territory of Laccadive, Minicoy, and Amindivi Islands
| url= http://lsi.gov.in:8081/jspui/bitstream/123456789/5664/1/22063_1961_TRI.pdf
}}
* {{Citation
| author = Government of India | year=2014–15
| title= District Census Handbook - Thrissur (Part-A) 2011 | publisher=Directorate of Census Operations, Kerala
| url= https://censusindia.gov.in/2011census/dchb/3207_PART_A_THRISSUR.pdf
}}
* {{Citation
| author = Government of India | year=2014–15
| title= District Census Handbook - Thrissur (Part-B) 2011 | publisher=Directorate of Census Operations, Kerala
| url= https://censusindia.gov.in/2011census/dchb/3207_PART_B_THRISSUR.pdf
}}

== External links ==
{{sister project links|Thrissur District}}
*
*
*

{{Geographic Location
|Centre = Thrissur district
|North =
|Northeast = ]
|East = ], ]
|Southeast =
|South = ]
|Southwest =
|West = '']''
|Northwest = ]
}}

{{Thrissur district}}
{{South Malabar}}
{{Malabar}}
{{Kerala}}
{{Authority control}}


]
] ]
] ]

Latest revision as of 17:23, 16 January 2025

District in Kerala, India

District in Kerala, India
Thrissur district Trichur district
District
Clockwise from top:
Thrissur Kole Wetlands, Cape of Kodungallur, Kerala Kalamandalam, Athirappilly Falls, Shakthan Thampuran Palace, Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary
Nickname: Cultural capital of Kerala
Location in KeralaLocation in Kerala
Thrissur District
Coordinates: 10°31′N 76°13′E / 10.52°N 76.21°E / 10.52; 76.21
Country India
StateKerala
HeadquartersThrissur
Government
 • District Collector & District MagistrateArjun Pandian IAS
 • Police Commissioner (City)R. Aadithya, IPS
 • S.P (Rural)Aishwarya Dongre, IPS
 • Divisional Forest Officer, ThrissurKurra Srinivas IFS
Area
 • Total3,032 km (1,171 sq mi)
 • Rank4th
Population
 • Total3,243,170
 • Density1,070/km (2,800/sq mi)
Languages
 • OfficialMalayalam, English
Time zoneUTC+5:30 (IST)
Vehicle registrationKL-08 Thrissur,
KL-45 Irinjalakuda,
KL-46 Guruvayur,
KL-47 Kodungallur,
KL-48 Wadakkancherry,
KL-64 Chalakkudy,
KL-75 Thriprayar
HDI (2005)Increase 0.781 ( High)
Websitethrissur.nic.in

Thrissur (Malayalam: [t̪riʃ(ː)uːr] ), anglicised as Trichur, is one of the 14 districts in the Indian state of Kerala. It is situated in the central region of the state. Spanning an area of about 3,032 km (1,171 sq mi), the district is home to over 9% of Kerala's population.

Thrissur district is bordered by the districts of Palakkad and Malappuram to the north, the districts of Ernakulam and Idukki to the south and Coimbatore to the east. The Arabian Sea lies to the west and Western Ghats stretches towards the east. It is part of the historical Malabar Coast, which has been trading internationally since ancient times. The main language spoken is Malayalam.

Thrissur district was formed on 1 July 1949, with the headquarters at Thrissur City. Thrissur is known as the cultural capital of Kerala, and the land of Poorams. The district is known for its ancient temples, churches, and mosques. Thrissur Pooram is the most colourful temple festival in Kerala.

Etymology

The term 'Thrissur' is the shortened form of the word 'Thrissivaperur' which means "the town in the name of Lord Siva". The town is built on an elevated ground, at the apex of which is the famous Vadakkumnatha Temple. A place of great antiquity, Thrissur was also known as Vrishabhadripuram and 'Ten Kailasam' in classical Sanskrit texts.

History

Main article: History of Thrissur
Map of City of Thrissur with Vadakkunnathan Temple prepared by John Gould in 1816.

From ancient times, Thrissur District has played a part in the political history of Kerala. The early political history of the District is interlinked with that of the Cheras of the Sangam age, who ruled over vast portions of Kerala with their capital at Vanchi. The whole of the present Thrissur District was included in the early Chera Empire. The District can claim to have played a part in fostering the trade relations between Kerala and the outside world in the ancient and medieval period.

Kodungalloor, which had the distinction of being the "Premium Emporium of India", gave shelter to all the three communities which have contributed to the prosperity of Malabar. These three communities are the Christians, the Jews and the Muslims.

The Thrissur district was ruled by the Perumal dynasty from the 9th to the 12th centuries and following that was part of the Kingdom of Cochin.

In 1790 Raja Rama Varma (1790–1805) popularly known as Saktan Tampuran ascended the throne of Cochin. With the accession of this ruler the English or modern period in the history of Cochin and of the District began. Saktan Tampuran was mainly responsible for the destruction of the power of the feudal Nair chieftains and increase of royal power. Another force in the public life of Trichur and its suburbs was the Namboodithiri community and Menons of royal ancestry. A large part of the Thrissur Taluk was for long under the domination of the Yogiatiripppads, the ecclesiastical heads of the Vadakkunnathan and Perumanam Devaswoms.

The wave of nationalism and political consciousness which swept through the country since the early decades of this century has its repercussions in the District as well. Thrissur District has been in the forefront of the country-wide movement for temple entry and abolition of untouchability. The Guruvayur Satyagraha is a memorable episode in the history of the national movement.

Demographics

Historical population
YearPop.±% p.a.
1901683,266—    
1911769,702+1.20%
1921813,758+0.56%
1931993,913+2.02%
19411,154,598+1.51%
19511,403,150+1.97%
19611,688,333+1.87%
19712,128,877+2.35%
19812,439,633+1.37%
19912,737,311+1.16%
20012,974,232+0.83%
20113,121,200+0.48%
20183,243,170+0.55%
source:

Source: Official Statistics 2007

District Thrissur
Area 3,027
Population (2011) 31,21,200
Males 14,80,763
Females 16,40,437
Sex ratio : Females/1000 1107
Density of Population 1031
Per Capita Income (in Rs) 21,362
Literacy rate 95.08%; Male 96.78%; Female 93.56%
Coastal line in km. 54
Water bodied area in ha. 5,573
Forest area in ha. 103619

According to the 2018 Statistics Report, Thrissur district has a population of 3,243,170, roughly equal to the nation of Mongolia or the US state of Iowa. The 2011 Census of India gives it a ranking of 113th in India (out of a total of 640). The district has a population density of 1,026 inhabitants per square kilometre (2,660/sq mi). Its population growth rate over the decade 2001–2011 was 4.58%. Thrissur has a sex ratio of 1107 females for every 1000 males, and a literacy rate of 95.32%. 67.17% of the population lives in urban areas. Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes make up 10.39% and 0.30% of the population respectively. Thrissur was also the second highest urbanized district in Kerala after Ernakulam.

Malayalam is the predominant language, spoken by 98.91% of the population as of 2011.

Religion

Religions in Thrissur district (2011)
Religion Percent
Hinduism   58.42%
Christianity   24.27%
Islam   17.07%
Other or not stated   0.24%

Hinduism is the majority religion in Thrissur, with 58.4% of the population. Christians and Muslims form significant minority.

Hindus

The Hindu community consists of mainly Nairs, Thiyyas, Ambalavasis, Brahmins (including the local Namboodiris and migrants like Iyers and Gouda Saraswat Brahmins) etc. The Scheduled Castes, around 12% of the population of the district, also form a section among the Hindus of the district.

Guruvayur Temple is a Hindu shrine dedicated to the Lord Guruvayurappan, located in the town of Guruvayur in Kerala, India. It is one of the most important pilgrim centres for Hindus in South India.

Christians

The Catholics (Syro Malabar Church and Latin), Orthodox and Chaldeans are the main sections of the Christian Community in the district. Catholics constitute 90% of the Christian population of the district. Kunnamkulam, a town in the northern part of the district is the center for the Orthodox, Malabar Independent Syrian Church (Thozhiyoor church), Pentecostals and Marthomites. A notable church in the area is St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Church, Palayur.

According to Saint Thomas christian tradition, the Palayur church was established in 52 AD by Saint Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. It is the first church in India, and Saint Thomas performed the first baptism in India here. It is part of the Ēḻarappaḷḷikaḷ (seven major churches) that he established in India. The original small church structure has been retained at the original site.

Muslims

Muslims live predominantly in the coastal belt of the district, from north Punnayoorkkulam to South Azhikode. They are dominant in Guruvayur and Chavakkad, in good in numbers Kodungalloor, Kaipamangalam and Nattika areas. Sunnis are the major section in Muslim community.

The first mosque in India is claimed to be Cheraman Juma Mosque in Kodungallur. Legend claims that it was built in 629 CE, which makes it the oldest mosque in the Indian subcontinent which is still in use. It was built by Malik Deenar, Persian tābiʿūn of the Islamic prophet Muhammad, on the orders of the successor of Cheraman Perumal, the Chera King of modern-day Kerala. The mosque was constructed in Kerala style with hanging lamps.

Geography and climate

Rivers and Lakes in Thrissur District

Thrissur is situated in southwestern India (10°31′N 76°13′E / 10.52°N 76.21°E / 10.52; 76.21) and is in the central part of Kerala. Thrissur is at sea level and spans an area of about 3,032 km (1,171 sq mi). It is bounded on the north by small parts of Malappuram district, on the east and north by Palakkad district, on the east by small parts of Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu, on the south by Ernakulam district, and on the west by the Arabian Sea (54 km (34 mi)). Descending from the heights of the Western Ghats in the east, the land slopes towards the west forming three distinct natural divisions – the highlands, the plains and the sea board. Karimala Gopuram is the highest point in Trissur situated in the border of Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary of Palakkad.

The Periyar, the Chalakudy, the Karuvannur, the Kurumali River (main tributary of the Karuvannur River) and the Ponnani (Bharatha Puzha) are the main river systems in the district. They take their origin from the mountains on the east, and flow westward and discharge into the Arabian Sea. There are a number of tributaries also joining these main rivers. There are waterfalls such as Athirappilly Falls which is widely known as the "Indian Niagara" nowadays. This is the only district in Kerala with the presence of both Periyar and Bharathappuzha, though they flow only a small distance through the district.

The district has a tropical humid climate with an oppressive hot season and plentiful and seasonal rainfall. Annual rainfall is about 3,000 mm (120 in). The hot season from March to May is followed by the South West Monsoon season from June to September. The period from December to February is the North East Monsoon season. However the rain stops by the end of December and the rest of the period is generally dry.

Culture

Thriprayar Shree Ramaswami Temple at Triprayar
Chalakudy River

Thrissur is known as cultural capital of Kerala.The district is known for the Thrissur Pooram. An ancient cultural center, Thrissur houses the Kerala Kalamandalam, the Kerala Sahitya Academy, the Kerala Lalitakala Academy and the Kerala Sangeeta Nataka Academy. The town is built around a hillock, crowned by the Vadakkumnathan (Siva) Temple. The temple is a classical example of Kerala style of architecture and houses several sacred shrines.

Thrissur also has added to its name The Church of Our Lady of Dolors, popularly known as the New Church(Puthen Palli). It is the third tallest church in Asia and the tallest in India. The first two churches of India are also situated in Thrissur, the St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Church, Palayoor and the Marthoma Pontifical Shrine, Kodungallur. The Metropolitan of the Chaldean Syrian Church (the name used for the Church of the East in India) is also headquartered in Thrissur, and many religious publications are printed by Mar Narsai Press. The largest Christian pilgrim center in the district, St.Joseph's Shrine is situated at Pavaratty. There is a legend which tells Saint Thomas (Apostle) was landed in kodungallur, Muziris in 52 AD. The Saint Thomas Church established by him houses many ancient relics. Puthenchira in Thrissur is the birth place of the Catholic Saint Mariam Thresia.

According to myth, Malik Bin Deenar and 20 others who were the followers Muhammad, the founder of Islam, first landed in Kodungallur in Thrissur district when they came to India. Islam received royal patronage in some places here, and later spread to other parts of India. He built the mosque Cheraman Juma Masjid which makes it the first mosque in India.

Guruvayur, home to the Sree Krishna Temple, is 25 km (16 mi) to the north of the city. It is a sacred place not only for Keralites but for Hindus all over the world as well. The adjacent towns of Chavakkad and Kunnamkulam are important centers of Muslims and Christians respectively. The Temple at Thriprayar is another important place of worship. This ancient temple is one of the few Temples dedicated to Lord Srirama in Kerala. Incidentally, two other temples dedicated to Lord Rama, viz., the Thiruvilwamala Temple and the Kadavallur Temple, fall in Thrissur district. Thirumangalam Temple situated at Thirumangalam desam, Engandiyur, Thrissur District. The Temple facing to Gurvayur Ernakulam National Highway. In this temple, there are two idols, one is Siva and the other is Maha Vishnu. Both have same the importance. But Siva is the main Idol. Because of this the temple listed in the 108 Siva temples list. The temple faces to the eastern side and has very good Sreekovil.

Kodungallur, the capital of the erstwhile Chera Empire, is a region of great archeological and historical significance. The Bhagavathi Temple here attracts thousands of devotees from all over Kerala. The Cheraman Juma Masjid, believed to be the oldest Mosque in India is situated here. Irinjalakkuda, where the only Bharatha Temple in India is located, is another place of importance. The Unnayi Warrier Smaraka Kalanilayam which is located near the Koodalmanickyam Temple is an important center of Kathakali Learning. Since ancient times Thrissur has been the most important center of Vedic Learning in Kerala. Yagas are still conducted in her soil with the same fervour as they used to be. The only centre of traditional Vedic Learning left in Kerala is situated at the heart of Thrissur Town.

Education

Main article: Education in Thrissur District

Administration of Thrissur

Main article: Administration of Thrissur district
Taluks in Thrissur District

The district is divided into two Revenue Sub Divisions; Thrissur and Irinjalakuda and is headed by Revenue Divisional Officer (RDO)

  • Taluks under Thrissur Revenue Division: Thrissur, Chavakkad, Talappilly, Kunnamkulam
  • Taluks under Irinjalakuda Revenue Division: Mukundapuram, Chalakudy, Kodungallur

Thrissur District has four types of administrative hierarchies:

  • Taluk and Village administration managed by the state government of Kerala
  • Panchayath Administration managed by the local bodies
  • Parliament Constituencies for the union government of India
  • Assembly Constituencies for the state government of Kerala
Taluks & its Headquarters
Thrissur Thrissur
Mukundapuram taluk Irinjalakuda
Kodungallur Kodungallur
Chavakad Chavakad
Thalapilly Wadakkanchery
Chalakudy Chalakudy
Kunnamkulam Kunnamkulam
Municipalities
Kunnamkulam
Chalakudy
Kodungallur
Chavakad
Guruvayur
Irinjalakuda
wadakkanchery

There are 13 constituencies from the district of Thrissur: Thrissur Assembly Constituency, Ollur Assembly Constituency, Guruvayoor, Chalakkudy, Kaipamangalam, Nattika, Kodungallur, Irinjalakuda, Puthukad, Manaloor, Kunnamkulam, Wadakkancheri and Chelakkara. There are two parliament constituencies: Thrissur Lok Sabha constituency and Chalakudy. Suresh Gopi is the Thrissur MP and Benny Behanan is the Chalakudy MP. Thrissur municipal corporation is the only municipal corporation in the district. For administrative purposes, the district of Thrissur is divided into two Revenue Divisions and seven taluks. These seven taluk centres are administrative hubs for 255 villages in Thrissur.

Major Towns

Media

The first newspaper which published from Thrissur was Lokamanyan in 1920. Then came Deenabandhu in 1941 and General (newspaper) in 1976. Major Malayalam newspapers published in Thrissur include ''Malayala Manorama, Mathrubhumi, Deshabhimani, Deepika, Kerala Kaumudi and Madhyamam. A number of evening papers are also published from the city. Newspapers in other regional languages like Hindi, Kannada, Tamil and Telugu are also sold in large numbers.

Politics

Kerala Legislative Assembly Constituencies from Thrissur district (13)
Sl no. Constituency MLA Party Alliance
1 Chelakkara K. Radhakrishnan CPI(M)   LDF
2 Kunnamkulam A. C. Moideen CPI(M)   LDF
3 Guruvayur N. K. Akbar CPI(M)   LDF
4 Manalur Murali Perunelli CPI(M)   LDF
5 Wadakkanchery Xavier Chittilappilly CPI(M)   LDF
6 Ollur K. Rajan CPI   LDF
7 Thrissur P. Balachandran CPI   LDF
8 Nattika C. C. Mukundan CPI   LDF
9 Kaipamangalam E. T. Tyson CPI   LDF
10 Irinjalakuda R. Bindu CPI(M)   LDF
11 Puthukkad K. K. Ramachandran CPI(M)   LDF
12 Chalakudy T. J. Saneesh Kumar Joseph INC   UDF
13 Kodungallur V. R. Sunil Kumar CPI   LDF

Industries

Thrissur is known for the power loom industry and the Textile Mills like the Alagappa Textiles in Alagappa Nagar, Kerala Lakshmi Mills at Pullazhi, Rajgopal Textiles at Athani, Sitaram Spinning and Weaving Mills Thrissur, Vanaja Textiles at Kurichikkara (now defunct), Bhagavathy Spinning Mills at Thanikkudam and Kunnath Textiles at Thrissur. Thrissur are engaged in the manufacture of hosiery products.

A view from Poomala, mountain

The coir and the tile industry offer employment for many people in the district. The first saw mill in the state was erected at Trichur (1905). Most of the timber is brought down from the forests to Thrissur and Chalakkudy, which are the most important timber marts in the District. Canning is a developing industry in Thrissur and Darlco Cannings and Kayee Plantations Cannings; both have major units at Thrissur. The Thrissur Fruits and Vegetables Marketing Society are establishing a canning industrial unit at Nadathara and it is going on very successfully. Besides all these the match stick industry, pharmaceuticals, printing etc. give Thrissur its fame as a bustling industrial centre. The first Worker's Indian Coffee House of the state was opened in Thrissur (1957).

The 400 kV Electric Power Station at Madakkathara near Thanikkudam is the major electrical hub connecting the KSEB electrical power system to the national electrical grid. The station serves more than 30% of the state's electrical energy requirements and acts as the principal feed to the northern half of Kerala.

Avinissery, a census town at south of Thrissur city is an important centre of Khadi and Village Industries.

Places of interest

See also: List of tourist attractions in Thrissur
Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary – 30 km (19 mi) from Thrissur City.
The Athirapally Falls flowing its usual discharge
  • Athirapilly Water Falls (63 km (39 mi) from Thrissur City): This 80 feet high waterfall at the threshold of the Sholayar ranges is a picnic spot. Two amusement parks – DreamWorld and SilverStorm – are located nearby.
  • Vazhachal  : Just a short drive from Athirapilly is close to dense forests and a part of the Chalakudy river.
  • Chalakudy River : This Perennial River is the 5th Longest river in Kerala and the richest river in fish diversity perhaps in India.
  • Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary (23 km (14 mi) from city): It is the largest elephant park in the world, with over 60 elephants.
  • Peechi Dam: (20 km (12 mi) from city) It is a good picnic spot. The dam was started as an irrigation project for the surrounding villages in Thrissur. At the same time, it catered the drinking water needs of the population of Thrissur City. It serves as an irrigation dam, reaching out to the paddy fields in and around Thrissur city. Built across the Manali River. Elephants may be seen on the bank of Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary, established in 1958 covering 125 square kilometres (48 sq mi).
  • Poomala Dam: A natural reserve and tourist spot with an irrigation dam.
  • Chavakkad Beach
  • Peruvanmala : A natural hillock with beautiful greenery, spread over an area of almost 50 acres, is located at Kechery.
  • Vazhani Dam (24 km (15 mi) from city): It is a good picnic spot built over Kechery River .
  • Snehatheeram Beach: This beach is around 23 km (14 mi) from town of Thrissur near by Nattika village.
  • Chimmony dam (35 km (22 mi) from city)
  • Kerala Kalamandalam (30 km (19 mi)): It is in Cheruthuruthy and was founded by the Poet Sri. Vallathol Narayana Menon, to encourage the study of the ancient arts of Kerala such as Kathakali and Mohiniyattom.
  • Koodalmanikyam Temple
  • Thrissur Zoo & Museum (2 km ): Opened in 1885, it is a 13.5-acre (5.5 ha) big zoo. The zoo is home for various animals, reptiles and birds.

Important towns

Kulassery Narasimha Temple, Thrissur

List of villages

Main article: List of villages in Thrissur district

Mayannur

Gallery

Notes

  1. ^ Annual Vital Statistics Report - 2018 (PDF). Thiruvananthapuram: Department of Economics and Statistics, Government of Kerala. 2020. p. 55.
  2. "Kerala | UNDP in India". UNDP.
  3. ^ "Trichur, Trichur kerala, Trichur pooram, Hotels in Thrissur, Trichur map, Thrissur Properties, Trichur Hotels, Trichur Real Estate". www.trichur.com. Retrieved 9 September 2020.
  4. Thampuran, Ashalatha. "History of the Cochin Royal Family: Tracing the Journey of Perumpadappu Swarūpam". Sahapedia. Retrieved 3 December 2024.
  5. Decadal Variation In Population Since 1901
  6. Official website of Thrissur district http://www.tsr.kerala.gov.in/barefacts.htm
  7. US Directorate of Intelligence. "Country Comparison:Population". Archived from the original on 13 June 2007. Retrieved 1 October 2011. Mongolia 3,133,318 July 2011 est.
  8. "2010 Resident Population Data". U. S. Census Bureau. Retrieved 30 September 2011. Iowa 3,046,355
  9. ^ "District Census Hand Book: Thrissur" (PDF). Census of India. Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India.
  10. "Chapter IV - Trends in Urbanization" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 15 November 2019.
  11. "Table C-16 Population by Mother Tongue: Kerala". www.censusindia.gov.in. Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India.
  12. ^ "Table C-01: Population by religious community: Kerala". Census of India. Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India. 2011.
  13. Logan (1887), p. ccccxi–ccccxii.
  14. Menon, A. Sreedhara (1962). Kerala District Gazetteers: Trichur, Kerala, Volume 7. Superintendent of Govt. Presses. pp. 72, 100.
  15. Sheshadri, Veena (2013). India: A to Z. ISBN 9789351184263.
  16. Limca Book of Records: India at Her Best. Hachette UK. 2018. ISBN 9789351952404.
  17. Logan, William (1887). "Ponnani Taluk". Malabar Manual. II: ccccxi.
  18. William, Logan (1887). "The People: Religion: Christianity". Malabar Manual. I: 199.
  19. Ayyar, A. S. Ramanatha (1927). "Two Copper Plate Records from Palaiyur". Travancore Archaeological Series. IV Part I: 84–91.
  20. Ron Geaves (2017). Islam and Britain: Muslim Mission in an Age of Empire. Bloomsbury. p. 6. ISBN 978-1-4742-7175-2.
  21. "Mosque in Kerala dates back to the Prophet's time". The Times of India. 20 July 2015.
  22. Anandan, S. (20 July 2015). "Tinkering with the past". The Hindu.

Further reading

External links

Places adjacent to Thrissur district
Malappuram district Palakkad district
Lakshadweep Sea Thrissur district Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu
Ernakulam district
District of Thrissur
Taluks
Blocks
Municipalities
Villages
Religious sites
Tourism
Festivals
Education
Diocese
South Malabar
Districts
Cities
Municipal towns
Census towns
Malabar region
Metropolitan cities: Kozhikode, Malappuram, Kannur
States/UTs
Districts
Taluks
Municipal Corporations
Municipalities
Other towns
Historical regions
flag India portal
Seal of Kerala State of Kerala
Capital: Thiruvananthapuram
Districts
Topics
Symbols
Bird
Great hornbill
Animal
Indian elephant
Tree
Coconut
Flower
Golden rain
Fish
Karimeen
Fruit
Jackfruit
Insect
Papilio buddha
Taluks
Municipal corporations
Municipalities
Other towns
North
Central
South
Historical regions
flag India portal
Categories:
Thrissur district: Difference between revisions Add topic