History of Grama Panchayat
History of the Gram Panchayat
History and Cultural Overview of Keezhariyur Gram Panchayat -
Keezhariyur Gram Panchayat, which is part of Meladi block of Koyilandy taluk of Kozhikode district, was formed on 27 September 1968 by dividing Thurayur Panchayat. This panchayat, with an area of 13.69 sq km, is bounded by Thurayur and Meppayur in the north, Arikulam and Meppayur in the east, Moodadi and Koyilandy Municipality in the west, and Arikulam and Koyilandy Municipality in the south.
This area, which includes Keezhariyur, Naduvathur and Nambrathukara lands, belongs to Kurumbranad taluk of the old Malabar district. It is believed that the name Keezhariyur was derived from "Keezhe Aruviyulla Ur". This area, full of rivers and mountains, is rich in natural beauty and water resources. In the past, due to geographical isolation, it was difficult to connect with the outside world.
The Keezhariyur famine is an important phase in the history of the village. S.K. Pottakad has also written a story based on it. It was during this period that Kasturba Hospital was established for maternity care and a school was established near the panchayat playground for Harijan children. Along with Harijans, children from other communities studied there. After 1945, the peasant movement in Keezhariyur strengthened; it was led by progressive-minded youth.
Geographically, the panchayat can be divided into three parts — the high plains, the slopes and the valleys. The main crops in the plains are coconut, cashew and rubber; the valleys are suitable for agriculture due to alluvial soil.
In the social sphere, caste-based inequalities and rich-poor distinctions did not affect the cultural life of the village. The schools and socio-cultural organizations established in the early 20th century formed the basis for a sense of unity. The service rendered by Panjatt Ramankutty and Kurumayil Kelukutty during the famine is famous.
The Keezhariyur library established by the Atma Vidya Sangham in the 1930s as part of the national movement contributed to the intellectual growth of the village. Even during the time of caste differences, all sections of the village worked in unity. The Elambilad Paradevathakshetrotsavam is a symbol of this unity; the festivals organized by the devaswoms and families were later taken over by the people's committees.
The mass rights protection movements took strong root in the panchayat. Superstitions and immoralities decreased and social consciousness increased. However, old customs still persist in ceremonies such as death and marriage.
Educational institutions play a major role in cultural transmission. Participation of the locals and parents is ensured through art, sports and cultural programs. The Vallathol Memorial Library was established as a result of the efforts of the Yuvajana Sangam organization; many activities such as speech training, adult education, and art programs were conducted. The paid library played a significant role in book distribution and in the fields of art and sports.
The unique art forms of the panchayat such as Kolkkali, Nadanpattu, Dafmuttu, Kuthirakolam and the ritual and traditional art forms such as Theyyam, Thira, and Kettiyattam have also become the cultural identity of the panchayat.