Oorakam: A Saga of Heritage, Struggle, and Culture

 

Oorakam Grama Panchayat is not just a geographical entity; it is a land steeped in history, nestled in the scenic folds of the Malappuram district. Situated at the western edge of the old Eranad Taluk, between the flowing Kadalundi River and the majestic Oorakam Hill, this village comprises the areas of Oorakam, Melmuri, and Keezhmuri.

From its origins as a dense forest to its evolution into a culturally rich society, the story of Oorakam is one of resilience and transformation.

1. The Land of Hills and Folklore

Etymology and Geography

The name "Oorakam" is believed to be derived from the phrase "Malamadakkukalkkakath Kidanna Ooru" (The village lying inside the folds of the hills).

Centuries ago, this region was a dense wilderness, isolated from the outside world, with the Kadalundi River serving as the only link to civilization. The land’s wild past is echoed in its place names:

• Karimpili
• Pannippara (Pig Rock)
• Mullan Madakkal (Porcupine Ridge)
• Aanakallu (Elephant Stone)

Once a haven for wildlife, the Oorakam Hill is still home to a rare population of monkeys, the last survivors of this wild heritage. Historically, the caves and rugged terrain of Oorakam Hill also served as secret hideouts for warriors during times of conflict.

2. Social History: From Feudalism to Freedom

The Feudal Era

In the past, Oorakam was defined by the rigid Janmi-Kudiyan (Landlord-Tenant) system. The entire land was under the control of powerful landlord families and entities, including the Thiruvarchanamkunnu Devaswom, Guruvayur Devaswom, Pothuval, and Kuririppuram families.

Life for the common man was harsh. The village assemblies were ruled by Ooralans, and tenants faced severe exploitation. Despite toiling from dawn to dusk like slaves, starvation was often their only reward. Attempting to work elsewhere was met with brutal punishment.

The Caste System

Social life was marred by the evils of the caste system, including untouchability (Theendal). Lower castes were denied basic human rights—they were forbidden from walking on public paths, wearing proper clothes, using umbrellas or footwear, and women were denied the right to cover their upper bodies.

The Winds of Reformation

The rise of the National Movement brought waves of change to Oorakam. A Harijan Samajam was formed to fight against untouchability. The revolutionary slogan "Land to the Tiller" and the Hunger March led by A.K. Gopalan (AKG) catalyzed social transformation in the region.

A pivotal moment occurred in Oorakam Melmuri (Nechikuzhi), where Harijans fenced off land to assert their rights. Although the upper-caste landlords used men from Keezhmuri to destroy these huts, the incident sparked a deep awareness of land rights among the common people.

The village also witnessed the ripples of Vinoba Bhave’s Bhoodan Movement, championed locally by Gandhians like A.V. Sreeranda Pothuval and K.C. Ponnunni Raru.

Notable social figures include Mattil Alavi Musliyar (born 1855), a spiritual leader and scholar, and K.K. Pookoya Thangal, a prominent figure in the socio-political and spiritual spheres.

3. Educational Evolution

Traditional Beginnings

Before the advent of formal schools, education in Oorakam was informal and community-based.

• Ezhuthutharas: Conducted by Nattazhuthachans (local tutors) in homes to teach basic literacy.
• Othupallis: Islamic education centers led by Mollakkas.

These traditional teachers laid the foundation for the village's cultural and intellectual growth.

The Rise of Formal Schools

The educational landscape shifted with the establishment of formal institutions:

• Malappuram Kottumala AMLP School: Founded under the leadership of M.K. Kunhimuhammad Musliyar and Kurungattil Kunjara Musliyar.
• Board Mappila Elementary School (1918): Established under the leadership of Pandikadavath Kunjali Haji.
• Mini Boys Elementary School: Started by K.C. Ramapanicker and E.P. Uzhithara Warrier.
• Mappila Boys School (1929): Established in Meethi under the Malappuram District Board.

Teachers like Shulapani Master, Poolakkanni Chekkutti Master, and M.K. Paraman Master were not just educators but social architects who enriched the village.

4. Cultural Heritage

Temples and Spiritual Centers

The spiritual crown jewel of the village is the Thiruvarchanamkunnu Sri Sankaranarayana Swamy Temple, situated on the peak of Oorakam Hill. Built with Krishna Shila (black stone), it is an ancient testament to the region's history.

Other major temples include:

• Kuttaloor Vishnu Temple
• Ammancharikavu and Kottumala Sreerama Temple
• Kongadappara Vettakkorumakan Temple

Mosques and Islamic Heritage

Among the many mosques, the Nelliiparamba Jumamasjid stands out with over 300 years of history. Known for its ancient architecture, it has been a center of learning for luminaries like Panakkad Pookoya Thangal and Kanniyath Ahmed Musliyar.

Christian Heritage

The Christian community is served by prominent churches such as the Fatima Mata Church on Oorakam Hill, Christ King Church, and the Mar Thoma Church in the 9th Ward.

Festivals and Arts

Oorakam is a land of harmony where festivals are celebrated irrespective of caste or religion.

• Thiruvonamala Kayattam: A trekking pilgrimage to the Sankaranarayana Temple on the Thiruvonam day of the Malayalam month Thulam.
• Kalapootu (Bull Surfing): The Kottumala Kalapootu was a famous post-harvest festival celebrating the agrarian culture.

The village has preserved various traditional art forms, including Bhoothamkali, Chavittukali, Kolkali, Vattappattu, and Mappilappattu.

5. A Legacy of Literature

Oorakam is the proud birthplace of Mahakavi V.C. Balakrishna Panicker, known as the "Comet of Malayalam Literature." His contributions have left an indelible mark on Kerala's cultural history. The Mahakavi V.C. Balakrishna Panicker Memorial Library stands today as a tribute to his legacy, continuing the tradition of reading and knowledge in the village.