Kulathoor
Grama Panchayat

Local History
The exemplary contributions of the Panchayat's first president, Mr. Antony Nadar, and the freedom fighter Mr. Gandhivilasam Krishnan Nair have played a significant role in the social progress of this area. Of the 12 wards in the Panchayat, three are situated entirely in the coastal region, while one is partially coastal. The vast majority of the local population relies on fishing for their livelihood; indeed, fish sourced from here supplies various parts of the Neyyattinkara Taluk. The Panchayat office is located at Therivila in the Virali area of ​​Kulathoor Village. Since the era of Portuguese influence, foreigners have frequented this region as a leisure destination. It is said that a large flag once stood atop a nearby high hill to signal sailing vessels anchoring at Poovar, which was a small port at the time. Due to this, the prominent hill came to be known as 'Kodithookikkunnu' (Flag-Hanging Hill). The panoramic views visible from the summit of Kodithookikkunnu are sure to captivate any visitor. To the west of the river, one can see various parts of Poovar that earned a place in history by offering refuge to Raja Keshavadas and King Marthanda Varma during their journeys. Although various medical systems—such as Allopathy, Ayurveda, and Homeopathy—are available, the majority of people rely on Allopathic treatment. Traditional indigenous medical practices also exist in certain areas. Two Primary Health Centres operate within the Panchayat. Most houses in the coastal region are simple huts; nearly half of the Panchayat's population is densely packed into this area, which accounts for less than 10% of the Panchayat's total land area.

**Cultural History**
While a caste system prevailed in the past, the region underwent a transformation—driven by social-cultural movements and political progress—that eradicated the caste system and fostered an exemplary state of unity among people of diverse castes and religions. At one time, this region was a hub for traditional arts and sports such as Kalaripayattu, Kolkali, Chavittunadakam, Chiramonkali, Kambadikali, Nadanpanthukali, Ranmankali, and Takaramelam. Traditional medical practices, including therapeutic massage (*Thirumal*), *Marma* treatment, and Siddha and toxicology-based healing methods, were also prevalent here. Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes constitute 19.78% of the Panchayat's total population. Historically, this was an area where the *Janmi* (feudal landlord) system and the caste system were rigidly enforced. Post-independence social changes and the assistance of Christian missionaries helped people from backward castes—to some extent—gain access to education, wear decent clothing, and enjoy freedom of movement. Agriculture and fishing are the primary sources of income in this panchayat. Hundreds of people once relied on traditional occupations such as palm climbing, mat weaving, clam harvesting, and coir twisting. However, due to socio-economic changes over time, these traditional trades are gradually disappearing. The *Thookkam* festival at the Kulathoor Phanamukathu Devi Temple is one of Kerala's ancient and renowned cultural festivals. The religious complexes—comprising Hindu temples, Christian churches, and Muslim mosques—in the Pozhiyoor area, along with their respective festivals, attract thousands of people regardless of caste or religion. The unity among the diverse communities here stands as a hallmark of Kulathoor Panchayat's cultural identity. One-third of the panchayat's population relies on income derived from the fishing sector. A look at the history of the local fishing industry reveals aspects that are both fascinating and lamentable; years ago, the local fishermen were dedicated to their trade as a way of life. However, an unexpectedly emerging cottage industry—arrack (local liquor) brewing—completely disrupted the local fishing sector. Many stopped going fishing and instead turned to the more profitable arrack trade. As fishing activity declined, the availability of fish also dropped significantly. Yet, through various awareness programs in 1992, arrack brewing was completely eradicated from the area, compelling the fishermen to return to their traditional occupation. Significant educational progress has been achieved compared to the past; the number of individuals attaining higher education and holding prestigious jobs has increased. The 16 arts and sports clubs and 9 libraries in the panchayat have contributed significantly to its cultural advancement. The Kodithookki CSI Church is the first Christian church in Kulathoor Panchayat. Other early-established churches include the Uchakkada RC Church, Parithiyoor St. Mary Magdalene Church, Kollamkode St. Matthew's Church, and Virali CSI Church. There are also Muslim places of worship in Charottukonam and Pozhiyoor.