Puthuppally
Grama Panchayat

Socio-Cultural History

The history of Puthuppally is closely intertwined with the rich cultural and political heritage of Vennimala, one of the most historically significant centres of the erstwhile Kingdom of Kerala. According to local tradition, the last Chera ruler, Cheraman Perumal, recognised the strategic and spiritual importance of Vennimala, also known as Vijayadri. The hill is believed to have contained seven sacred lakes and seventy-two holy springs, filled throughout the year with crystal-clear water. Hindus traditionally believe that performing ancestral rites, ritual baths, and offerings at these sacred waters grants spiritual merit and salvation.

Inspired by these traditions, Cheraman Perumal is believed to have established his residence at Vennimala and constructed the renowned Vennimala Temple. The temple complex included a Nalambalam (inner quadrangle), Balikkalpura (sacrificial hall), entrance towers, and a Koothambalam (traditional theatre), complete with a performance stage and backstage facilities for temple arts.

Being a great patron of Chakyar Koothu, the King decreed that the performance should be conducted regularly at the temple. If, for any reason, the performance could not be held, Koodiyattam was to be performed as an act of ritual atonement. He also directed that the annual Anguliyankam Koothu and Theeyattu rituals should be conducted before the temple festival. To ensure the uninterrupted conduct of these rituals, extensive lands and other properties were endowed to the Devaswom for generating the required income. Residential quarters were also built for temple functionaries and artists who were invited from outside to serve the temple.

Historical traditions further state that Cheraman Perumal resided at Vennimala for some time before entrusting the administration of Kerala to his relatives and dependants and departing from the region. Subsequently, Vennimala and its surrounding areas came under the rule of the Thekkumkoor Kingdom. During the reign of the celebrated ruler Rama Varma, Vennimala served as the capital of Thekkumkoor. Fortifications, royal buildings, and well-planned streets were established during this period, reflecting the administrative importance of the region.

The origin of the name Puthuppally is also associated with this historical period. Local tradition suggests that the place was originally known as Pulli Palli, a term referring to the location where military formations were stationed. Over time, the name gradually evolved into Puthuppally. Place names such as Payyappady and Thalappady are believed to indicate important streets or settlements associated with the royal capital.

Under the rule of the Thekkumkoor kings, the region experienced considerable prosperity. In an era when road transport was limited, inland waterways served as the principal means of communication and trade. These waterways connected the region with major commercial centres extending from Alappuzha to Kochi through the Kodoor River. The historic marketplace at Angadi, near Puthuppally Church, emerged as an important centre of trade and commerce during this period.