Udumbanoor
Grama Panchayat

Udumbannoor – Social, Cultural and Historical Background

Udumbannoor is a region with a rich social, cultural, and historical heritage. More than seven centuries ago, the area was ruled by the Keezhmalai Raja. Later, the kingdoms of Thekkumkoor and Vadakkumkoor alternately governed this region. Remnants of the ancient "Kotta" (fortification/trench), which once marked the boundary between the Thekkumkoor and Vadakkumkoor kingdoms, can still be seen today. The State Highway passing through Kodikulam, Karimannoor, and Udumbannoor Panchayats near this fortification came to be known as Kotta Road for this reason.

It is difficult to determine exactly when human settlement began in Udumbannoor. A clearer understanding can only be obtained through scientific studies of the rock formations found in the Peringassery area and the remains of ancient burial chambers (Muniyaras) discovered near Manjappilly Hill. The present population consists of the region's early inhabitants as well as settlers who migrated centuries ago from areas such as Meenachil, Purappuzha, Thodanganad, and Koothattukulam for agricultural purposes.

Migration into this area began when its fertile soil was recognized as being highly suitable for cultivation. In addition to small farmers who migrated for their livelihood, several wealthy landowners also acquired extensive tracts of land here. The Palampadam Party of Kottayam obtained about 2,000 acres of land from Maharaja Sree Moolam Thirunal by paying timber and land taxes. During the administration of Sir C. P., Manjappilly Ramakrishna Pillai acquired 95 acres of land and established the Sreekrishna Vilasam Estate. Vadakkayil Pareeth, who resided in the Karikkode region, owned more than 500 acres of land. The Koodalmanikyam Devaswom possessed nearly 200 acres. Following the formation of the State of Kerala, land reform legislation and agrarian struggles resulted in hundreds of farmers receiving ownership rights to agricultural land.

Areas such as Veloor, Pattakkal, Thekkumkara, Kaithappara, Manayathadam, Kuzhiyamattam, and Mannukkadu were once dense forests. Over time, many of these areas were converted into teak plantations.

As an agriculturally important region, Udumbannoor has witnessed several natural disasters throughout its history. In Kollam Era 1099 (approximately 98 years ago), a major flood affected the area. In Kollam Era 1125 (approximately 72 years ago), massive landslides occurred at Vellanthanam and Marakkombu Hills, resulting in the deaths of 11 people. In 2001, a landslide at Velliyani claimed four lives and caused extensive damage. Landslides in the Chelakkad and Malayinchi regions led to widespread crop destruction and the death of one person. The devastating floods and landslides associated with the 2018 Kerala Floods caused severe agricultural losses and damage to many homes. As part of the State Government's rehabilitation package, 71 families were relocated and provided with ₹10 lakh each for resettlement.

Today, due to concerns over adverse climatic conditions and recurring natural disasters, many residents from the higher-altitude regions of Udumbannoor Panchayat are migrating to various parts of Thodupuzha Taluk.