Kazhakkoottam --- mired in history

Just 15 kms north of Trivandrum is the sleepy little village Kazhakkottam. It looks like any other typical Kerala village - green, serene and a slow pace of life. Dig deep and the treasure trove will reveal events that shook and changed the events of the erstwhile princely state of Travancore.

Marthanda Varma, the ruler of Travancore perceived Ettuveetil Pillas as a threat to his sovereignty. The mighty and most powerful among the eight Pillais was Kazhakkoottathu Pillai. Marthanda Varma didn't hesitate to wipe out all the Pillas and their families in one swift action. The Puthukulam pond replete with bright lotus flowers is the place where the palatial house of Kazhakkoottam Pillai once stood. His kalarivilakku (traditional lamp) can still be seen here at Kalavarathoppu. The armoury and kalari (place where instructions in martial arts is given) of the Pillai was situated at Kalavarathoppu, where now the only remnant of the hoary days is the kalarivilakku amidst a sprawling coconut grove.

The Kazhakkottam Sri Mahadevar temple here, which was renovated during the period of Marthanda Varma, is more than 1175 years old. The festival here has been famous from old times. The Madavoorppara cave temple which dates back to the Ramayana days is also near here. Legend has it that the Siva idol had been installed by Lord Rama himself.

Kazhakkottam is also a place renowned for many illustrious exponents of kalari, the ancient martial art of Kerala.

GETTING THERE:
Just 15 kms north of the state capital Trivandrum, this place is easily accessible as the National Highway cuts through the place.