History of Grama Panchayat
📜 Historical Heritage
Nannan was a famous king of ancient times who ruled with Ezhimala as his capital. In Sanskrit, Ezhimala is known as Mushakashailam. His successors are known as the Mushaka Dynasty. The regions of Kannur district, including Maloor Grama Panchayat, were once under the reign of the Mushaka kings.
The Purali Dynasty was founded by Harichandra Perumal, who established his settlement by building a fort on Puralimala. In the Arakkal Dynasty, the male head was referred to as Ali Raja, while the female rulers were called Arakkal Beevi. Gradually becoming the lords of Kannur city, the Ali Rajas held the authority over the collection and trade of pepper and cardamom in North Malabar.
🎪 Culture and Education
The Kannur-Thalassery region of North Kerala is considered the birthplace of the Indian Circus. Maloor Panchayat also carries the rich cultural traditions of North Malabar.
The educational history of Maloor began in Ezhuthu Kalaris (traditional village schools) conducted by Ezhuthashans (traditional teachers). Over time, many of these traditional schools evolved into modern educational institutions.
🤝 Religious Harmony and Festivals
Maloor Panchayat is home to numerous places of worship. The temples, sacred groves (Kavus), churches, and mosques located throughout the panchayat stand as symbols of Kannur's unique ritual arts.
Major Festivals: The Maloorpadi Festival and the Tholambra Sri Chanthroth Madappura Festival are celebrated with great importance.
These festivals showcase the region's cultural identity, with all residents participating regardless of caste or religion.
🏛️ Notable Personalities and Institutions
The late Ananthan Vaidyar, a prominent political activist, was a legendary figure of Maloor Panchayat. Prabhat Club is a key institution nurturing the arts and sports sectors of the region.
Furthermore, several cultural organizations have been instrumental in the community's progress. The following libraries and reading rooms have accelerated the cultural growth of the people since the early days:
AKG Library
Kunderippoyil Reading Room
Prabhat Reading Room
Supriya Reading Room
Mahatma Reading Room