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{{Infobox settlement
{{Infobox settlement
| name = Thodupuzha
| name = Thodupuzha
| other_name = Gateway of Highrange
| other_name =
| settlement_type = [[Municipalities of Kerala|Municipality]]<ref name="lsgkerala_2017-10">{{Cite web | url=https://lsgkerala.gov.in/system/files/2017-10/localbodies.pdf | title=Grama Panchayaths | website=lsgkerala.gov.in}}</ref>
⚫
| settlement_type = [[Municipality|Municipal town]]
| image_skyline = Thodupuzha-civilstation-complex.jpg
| image_skyline = Thodupuzha-civilstation-complex.jpg
| image_alt =
| image_alt =
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| government_type = First Grade Municipality
| government_type = First Grade Municipality
| governing_body =
| governing_body =
| leader_title = Municipal Chairman
| leader_title1 = Member of Legislative Assembly
| leader_name = Mr. Sanish George
| leader_name1 = [[P._J._Joseph|P.J. Joseph]] ([[Kerala Congress|KC]]/[[United_Democratic_Front_(Kerala)|UDF]])
⚫
| leader_title2 = Municipal Chairman
| leader_name2 = Mr. Sanish George
| unit_pref = Metric
| unit_pref = Metric
| area_footnotes =
| area_footnotes =
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| registration_plate = KL-38
| registration_plate = KL-38
| blank1_name_sec1 = Nearest city
| blank1_name_sec1 = Nearest city
| blank1_info_sec1 = [[Ernakulam]], [[Kottayam]], [[Muvattupuzha]], [[Pala, Kerala|Pala]]
| blank1_info_sec1 = [[Kottayam]], [[Kochi]]
| blank2_name_sec1 = Nearest Railway Stations
| blank2_name_sec1 = Nearest Railway Stations
| blank2_info_sec1 = [[Piravam Road railway station|Piravam Road(PVRD) 38&nbsp;km]]<br />
| blank2_info_sec1 = [[Piravam Road railway station|Piravam Road(PVRD) 38&nbsp;km]]<br />
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[[Ernakulam Junction railway station|Ernakulam Jn. / Ernakulam South (ERS) 59.2&nbsp;km]]<br />
[[Ernakulam Junction railway station|Ernakulam Jn. / Ernakulam South (ERS) 59.2&nbsp;km]]<br />
[[Ernakulam Town railway station|Ernakulam Town / Ernakulam North (ERN) 59.8&nbsp;km]]
[[Ernakulam Town railway station|Ernakulam Town / Ernakulam North (ERN) 59.8&nbsp;km]]
| blank4_name_sec1 = Nearest Airport
| blank3_name_sec1 = Nearest Airport
| blank4_info_sec1 = [[Cochin International Airport| Cochin International Airport (COK) 54&nbsp;km]]
| blank3_info_sec1 = [[Cochin International Airport| Cochin International Airport (COK) 54&nbsp;km]]
| blank3_name_sec1 = [[Lok Sabha]] constituency
| blank4_name_sec1 = [[Vidhan Sabha]] constituency
| blank3_info_sec1 = [[Idukki (Lok Sabha constituency)|Idukki]]
| blank4_info_sec1 = [[Thodupuzha_Assembly_constituency|Thodupuzha]]
| blank5_name_sec1 = [[Lok Sabha]] constituency
| blank5_info_sec1 = [[Idukki (Lok Sabha constituency)|Idukki]]
| blank1_name_sec2 = [[Climate of India|Climate]]
| blank1_name_sec2 = [[Climate of India|Climate]]
| blank1_info_sec2 = [[Climatic regions of India|Tropical monsoon]] {{small|([[Köppen climate classification|Köppen]])}}
| blank1_info_sec2 = [[Climatic regions of India|Tropical monsoon]] {{small|([[Köppen climate classification|Köppen]])}}
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| footnotes =
| footnotes =
}}
}}
'''Thodupuzha''' ({{IPA-ml|kaʈ:ap:ɐna|}}) is a [[Municipalities of Kerala|municipality]]<ref name="lsgkerala_2017-10"/> and [[Tehsil|Taluka]] in the [[Idukki district]] of [[Kerala]], [[India]]. It is located {{convert|55|km|1|abbr=on}} west of the district headquarters in [[Painavu]] and about {{convert|192|km|1|abbr=on}} north of the state capital [[Thiruvananthapuram]]. As per the [[2011 Indian census]], Thodupuzha has a population of 52,045 people, and a population density of {{convert|1468|/sqkm|abbr=on}}.
'''Thodupuzha''' is a [[municipality|municipal town]] located in [[Idukki district|Idukki]] district, [[Kerala]], [[India]], that covers an area of {{cvt|35.43|km2}}.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.censusindia.net/results/town.php?stad=A&state5=999|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040616075334/http://www.censusindia.net/results/town.php?stad=A&state5=999|archive-date=2004-06-16|title= Census of India 2001: Data from the 2001 Census, including cities, villages and towns (Provisional)|access-date=2008-11-01|publisher= Census Commission of India}}</ref> It lies on the banks of [[Thodupuzha River|Thodupuzha river]], which merges with the [[Kaliyar]] and Kothamangalam rivers at [[Muvattupuzha]] to form the Muvattupuzha river. Thodupuzha is {{cvt|53|km|mi}} from [[Kottayam]], {{cvt|75|km|mi}} from Kattappana and {{cvt|60|km|mi}} south east of [[Kochi]]. Thodupuzha is {{Cvt|197|km|mi}} from the state capital, [[Trivandrum]]. The geographical classification of the Thodupuzha Region is ''Malanad'' or ''Keezhmalanad.''


Thodupuzha is the largest town and main commercial centre in Idukki. It is bordered by the [[Kottayam district]] on the southern side and the [[Ernakulam district|Ernakulam District]] on the western side. It also acts as a gateway to various tourist spots in the [[High Range, Kerala|High Range]] regions towards its east, including [[Munnar]], [[Thekkady]], and [[Peermade]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.kudumbashree.org/sub-district/991020/12|title=Kudumbashree.org subdistrict 991020-12}}</ref>
Thodupuzha is the largest town in Idukki district and is a main commercial center. The town is being modernized with the help of a program sponsored by the [[World Bank]]. It was once part of [[Travancore]]. The Thodupuzha municipality area is characterized by abundant vegetation.


== Etymology ==
== Etymology ==
⚫
In retribution to the destruction the then capital of ''Vadakkaumkoor'' principality, ''Karikkode'', by Diwan Ramayyan and his ally Yesthacius De Lenoy on the annexation of Vadakkumkoor, by the orders of Maharajah of Travancore, His Highness Anizham Thirunal Marthandavarma, sent his representative to manage as administer of invaded principality of Vadakkumkoor, Elasamprathi Narayana Varma. A nearby area, then named "Kodanthuruth" surrounded by a number of hillocks and rocky areas was selected by the representative of Maharajah of Travancore, to be the new headquarters of the Thodupuzha Taluk. Karikkode was reduced to a petty village as a "Pakuthy". Maharajah also appointed and entrusted Mallan Sankaran of Palliyadi, his Surveyor, for the preparation of land revenue records(''"Ozhukku''and survey and settlement of Kandezhuthu. As Mallan Sankaran failed to execute his mission due to widespread objection and riot of the local people, survey was only completed during the reign of Karthikathirunal Ramavarma. The place was named ''Thodupuzha'' by the Raja of Vadakkumkoor Maluvakon Manikantan who used to reside in his palace at Vaickam and Edavetty(Mattam Palace) near Karikkode, used to mention the nearby flowing wide "Valiyathodu" as ''thodu'' ({{Translation|"rivulet"}}) ''puzha'' ({{Translation|"river"}}). It is believed that the stream developed into a river due to the changes in geophysical conditions of the area wherefrom it originates and enter the vally of Arakulam, to be known as '''Thodupuzha''' river and the town on the banks of the river came to be known as Thodupuzha. There is another version that defines ''thodu'' as "touch" instead. The Mattathil Kovilakam<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.kudumbashree.org/sub-district/881020/20|title=Government of Kerala kudumbashree |date=2004|publisher=Government of Kerala|access-date=2020-11-19}}</ref> were the protectors and rulers of the region. The last ruler of the region was Elasamprathi Narayana Varma, who originally came from Trivandrum and was the representative of Maharaja of Travancore Anizhamthirunal Marthanda Varma.
{{More citations needed section|date=May 2021}}
⚫
In retribution to the destruction the then capital of Vadakkaumkoor principality, ''Karikkode'', by Diwan Ramayyan and his ally Yesthacius De Lenoy on the annexation of Vadakkumkoor, by the orders of Maharajah of Travancore, His Highness Anizham Thirunal Marthandavarma, sent his representative to manage as administer of invaded principality of Vadakkumkoor, Elasamprathi Narayana Varma. A nearby area, then named "Kodanthuruth" surrounded by a number of hillocks and rocky areas was selected by the representative of Maharajah of Travancore, to be the new head quarters of the Thodupuzha Taluk. Karikkode was reduced to a petty village as a "Pakuthy". Maharajah also appointed and entrusted Mallan Sankaran of Palliyadi, his Surveyer, for the preparation of land revenue records(''"Ozhukku''and survey and settlement of Kandezhuthu. As Mallan Sankaran failed to execute his mission due to widespread objection and riot of the local people, survey was only completed during the reign of Karthikathirunal Ramavarma. The place was named ''Thodupuzha'' by the Raja of Vadakkumkoor Maluvakon Manikantan who used to reside in his palace at Vaickam and Edavetty(Mattam Palace) near Karikkode, used to mention the nearby flowing wide "Valiyathodu" as ''thodu''({{Translation|"rivulet"}}) ''puzha'' ({{Translation|"river"}}). It is believed that the stream developed into a river, and the town on the banks of the river came to be known as Thodupuzha. There is another version that defines ''thodu'' as "touch" instead. The Mattathil Kovilakam<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.kudumbashree.org/sub-district/881020/20|title=Government of Kerala kudumbashree |date=2004|publisher=Government of Kerala|access-date=2020-11-19}}</ref> were the protectors and rulers of the region. The last ruler of the region was Elasamprathi Narayana Varma, who originally came from Trivandrum and was the representative of Maharaja of Travancore Anizhamthirunal Marthanda Varma.


== History ==
== History ==
{{More citations needed section|date=May 2021}}
[[File:Sarvadhikari Elasamprathi Narayana Varma of Vadakkumkur.jpg|thumb|Sarvadhikari Elasamprathi Narayana Varma of Vadakkumkur]]
[[File:Sarvadhikari Elasamprathi Narayana Varma of Vadakkumkur.jpg|thumb|Sarvadhikari Elasamprathi Narayana Varma of Vadakkumkur]]


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Varam erected many monuments, including the government offices, [[Pandikasala]], and temples. The Karikode mosque and other buildings in Thodupuzha and [[Muvattupuzha]] also date from his reign. He was the founder of the new style of tax collection in this region. Thodupuzha is an ancient town with a history dating back to many centuries. The Buddhist and Jain religions which made their first inroads into Kerala in 300 BC left their influence at Thodupuzha and neighboring areas. In the 14th century, Kerala was divided for administrative reasons into several provinces: Venadu, Otanadu, Navishainadu, Munjunadu, Vempolinadu, and Keezhmalainadu. Thodupuzha and Muvattupuzha were in Keezhmalainadu, which was in existence until 1600; in that year it lost a battle with Vadakkumkoor and became a part of it.
Varam erected many monuments, including the government offices, [[Pandikasala]], and temples. The Karikode mosque and other buildings in Thodupuzha and [[Muvattupuzha]] also date from his reign. He was the founder of the new style of tax collection in this region. Thodupuzha is an ancient town with a history dating back to many centuries. The Buddhist and Jain religions which made their first inroads into Kerala in 300 BC left their influence at Thodupuzha and neighboring areas. In the 14th century, Kerala was divided for administrative reasons into several provinces: Venadu, Otanadu, Navishainadu, Munjunadu, Vempolinadu, and Keezhmalainadu. Thodupuzha and Muvattupuzha were in Keezhmalainadu, which was in existence until 1600; in that year it lost a battle with Vadakkumkoor and became a part of it.


St George Syro-Malabar Forane Church at Muthalakodam[https://muthalakodamstgeorgechurch.com][http://townplanning.kerala.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Thodupuzha-Heritage-Area.pdf][https://goo.gl/maps/15e4X2KqwTDMwoeR6], near Thodupuzha, is believed to have constructed before the 13th century. It was re-built several times since then. Today's magnificent church was built in the year 1973.
St George Syro-Malabar Forane Church at Muthalakodam [https://muthalakodamstgeorgechurch.com St. George Forane Church Muthalakodam][http://townplanning.kerala.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Thodupuzha-Heritage-Area.pdf ][https://www.google.com/maps/place/St.+George's+Forane+Church,+Muthalakodam/@9.9099484,76.7316068,18z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x3b07c3fdf0a1792f:0x16664906ad9f1cc!8m2!3d9.910629!4d76.7330797!16s%2Fg%2F1tmxc_dw?coh=164777&entry=tt St. George's Forane Church, Muthalakodam · WP6M+764, SH44, Muthalakodam, Kerala 685605, India], near Thodupuzha, is believed to have constructed before the 13th century. It was re-built several times since then and the current structure was built in the year 1973.


Mylacombu St Thomas Syro-Malabar Church, Thodupuzha[https://www.keralatourism.org/christianity/church-architecture/24][https://goo.gl/maps/XDkccXkEAnoyZKeu5] is believed to be built in 660 AD by [[Saint Thomas Christians|Syrian Christian]] settlers in Mylacombu near Thodupuzha who migrated from [[Kuravilangad]], [[Kodungallur]], [[Angamaly]], [[Kadamattom]] and [[Koothattukulam|Vadakara, Koothattukulam]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=St. Thomas Forane Church Mailacombu::Kothamangalam Eparchy:: Syro Malabar Church Parish|url=http://www.syromalabarchurch.in/parish.php?id=178|access-date=2021-06-06|website=www.syromalabarchurch.in}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Architecture of Churches in Kerala {{!}} Christianity in Kerala {{!}} Kerala Tourism|url=https://www.keralatourism.org/christianity/church-architecture/24|access-date=2021-06-06|website=Christianity|language=en}}</ref>
Mylacombu St Thomas Syro-Malabar Church, Thodupuzha [https://www.keralatourism.org/christianity/church-architecture/24 Architecture of Churches in Kerala | Christianity in Kerala | Kerala Tourism][https://www.google.com/maps/place/St.+Thomas+Forane+Church,+Mylacombu/@9.9244576,76.6993687,15z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x3b07c397fc8f627f:0x8397dc8993926902!8m2!3d9.9244576!4d76.6993687!16s%2Fg%2F1tcz6rqd?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj1uM-s7pD-AhUbTWwGHdeJBroQ_BJ6BAhbEAg&coh=164777&entry=tt St. Thomas Forane Church, Mylacombu · WMFX+QPQ, Mylacombu, Kumaramangalam, Idukki, Kerala 685608, India] is believed to be built in 660 AD by [[Saint Thomas Christians|Syrian Christian]] settlers in Mylacombu near Thodupuzha who migrated from [[Kuravilangad]], [[Kodungallur]], [[Angamaly]], [[Kadamattom]] and [[Koothattukulam|Vadakara, Koothattukulam]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=St. Thomas Forane Church Mailacombu::Kothamangalam Eparchy:: Syro Malabar Church Parish|url=http://www.syromalabarchurch.in/parish.php?id=178|access-date=2021-06-06|website=www.syromalabarchurch.in}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Architecture of Churches in Kerala {{!}} Christianity in Kerala {{!}} Kerala Tourism|url=https://www.keralatourism.org/christianity/church-architecture/24|access-date=2021-06-06|website=Christianity|language=en}}</ref>


St Mary's Syro-Malabar Church, Nediyasala [https://goo.gl/maps/zzZobDje93DGMbYC9] near Thodupuzha is another ancient church in the locality.
St Mary's Syro-Malabar Church, Nediyasala [https://www.google.com/maps/place/St.+Mary's+Syro+Malabar+Church,+Nediyasala/@9.8853301,76.6736537,17z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x3b07c49195bd397b:0x18c139a1f76da81f!8m2!3d9.8868488!4d76.6741851!16s%2Fg%2F1262tspkl?coh=164777&entry=tt St. Mary's Syro Malabar Church, Nediyasala · VMPF+PMM, Thodupuzha, Koothattukulam Road, Nediyasala, Kerala 685608, India] near Thodupuzha is another ancient church in the locality.


When Kerala formed in 1956, Thodupuzha was part of the [[Ernakulam]] district and C. A. Mathew (മാത്യു ചൂരപുഴ) became the first [[Member of the Legislative Assembly (India)|member]] of the [[Kerala Legislative Assembly]] from 1957 to 1960, and from 1960 to 1965.. In 1972, the [[Idukki district]] was formed by merging the Thodupuzha [[taluk]] with the [[Devikulam]], [[Udumbanchola]] and [[Peermade]] taluks, which were part of the [[Kottayam]] district.
After [[Partition of India|Indian independence]], from 1949 to 1956, Thodupuzha was a part of the [[Kottayam district]] in [[Travancore-Cochin]] state.<ref>{{Cite book |title=Unknown |publisher=[[Malayala Manorama]] |year=2006 |editor-last=K. M. Mathew |editor-link=K. M. Mathew |page=116}}</ref> In 1956, when Kerala state was formed, Thodupuzha remained as a part of Kottayam district until 1958, when Ernakulam district was formed on 1 April 1958 and C. A. Mathew (മാത്യു ചൂരപുഴ) became the first [[Member of the Legislative Assembly (India)|member]] of the [[Kerala Legislative Assembly]] from 1957 to 1960, and from 1960 to 1965. In 1972, the [[Idukki district]] was formed by merging the Thodupuzha [[taluk]] with the [[Devikulam]], [[Udumbanchola]] and [[Peermade]] taluks, which were part of the [[Kottayam]] district.


== Demographics ==
== Demographics ==
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[[File:Thodupuzha Old Bridge.JPG|thumb|left|Old bridge of Thodupuzha]]
[[File:Thodupuzha Old Bridge.JPG|thumb|left|Old bridge of Thodupuzha]]


As of [[2011 Census of India|2011 Census]],<ref>{{cite book |last1=Kerala |first1=Directorate of Census Operations |title=District Census Handbook, Idukki |publisher=Directorateof Census Operations,Kerala |location=Thiruvananthapuram |page=78,79 |url=https://censusindia.gov.in/2011census/dchb/3209_PART_B_IDUKKI.pdf |access-date=14 July 2020}}</ref> Thodupuzha Taluka with an area of {{cvt|884.93|km2}} had total population of 325,951; males comprised 49% of the population and females 51%. Literacy rate of Thodupuzha Taluka in 2011 were 95.56% in which, male and female literacy were 96.81% and 94.33% respectively. In Thodupuzha, 9% of the population was under 6 years of age.
As of [[2011 Census of India|2011 Census]],<ref>{{cite book |last1=Kerala |first1=Directorate of Census Operations |title=District Census Handbook, Idukki |publisher=Directorate of Census Operations, Kerala |location=Thiruvananthapuram |page=78,79 |url=https://censusindia.gov.in/2011census/dchb/3209_PART_B_IDUKKI.pdf |access-date=14 July 2020}}</ref> Thodupuzha Taluka with an area of {{cvt|884.93|km2}} had total population of 325,951; males comprised 49% of the population and females 51%. Literacy rate of Thodupuzha Taluka in 2011 were 95.56% in which, male and female literacy were 96.81% and 94.33% respectively. In Thodupuzha, 9% of the population was under 6 years of age.


== Economy and infrastructure ==
== Economy and infrastructure ==
{{Unreferenced section|date=May 2021}}
{{Unreferenced section|date=May 2021}}
Thodupuzha's economy is driven by agriculture, business, and small industries. Farmers in Thodupuzha raise a number of crops, mostly [[rubber]]. Other crops such as [[pineapple]], [[coconut]], [[rice]], [[black pepper|pepper]], [[Cocoa bean|cocoa]], [[tapioca]], [[banana]], [[ginger]], [[turmeric]] are also cultivated. The headquarters of the first manufacturing industry in the district, Dhanwanthari Vaidyasala, are in Thodupuzha.
Thodupuzha Taluk now bifurcated into Thodupuzha and Idukki Taluks of which most of the lands spread over low range plainland of Middle Kerala is the hub of trade in hill produces like rubber, coconut, peppar, tapioca, banana, ginger, turmeric, pineapple and cocoa. Prior to the real estate drive in the district large areas were cultivated by paddy and now paddy cultivation is abandoned by farmers due to negative situations. In fact, Thodupuzha's economy was mostly driven by agriculture. Farmers in Thodupuzha raise a number of crops, mostly [[rubber]]. Other crops such as [[pineapple]], [[coconut]], [[rice]], [[black pepper|pepper]], [[Cocoa bean|cocoa]], [[tapioca]], [[banana]], [[ginger]], [[turmeric]] are also cultivated. Very recently many entrepreneurs have come up with numerous ventures in small scale and village industries especially as a result of encouragement in state policy since for the last three decades. Corresponding development in business and trade are also visible in this area. The headquarters of the first Ayurvedic Medicine manufacturing industry in the district, The Dhanwanthari Vaidyasala, is in Thodupuzha and now a good number of industries like Nagarjuna, Guardian Controls, Lunar Chappals, Saro Plast, Brahmins industries are few examples. Thodupuzha Municipal Town can credit for its well constructed bypass roads being the foundations of infrastructure in development of the area. A good number of public and private institutions are also evidence its fast development to cope with the need of era.
{| style="margin:0;"

|+'''Neighbouring cities & towns'''
|
{{Geographic Location
|title = '''Destinations from Thodupuzha'''
|Northwest = [[Muvattupuzha]],[[Kothamangalam, Kerala|Kothamangalam]]
|North = [[Paingottoor]],[[Pothanicad]]
|Northeast = [[Vannappuram]]
|West = [[Koothattukulam]]
|Centre = Thodupuzha
|East = [[Kattappana]],[[Nedumkandam]]
|Southwest = [[Uzhavoor]]
|South = [[Pala,_Kerala|Pala]],[[Erattupetta]]
|Southeast = [[Idukki township|Idukki]],[[Vagamon]]
}}
|}


== Climate ==
== Climate ==
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== Sports ==
== Sports ==
The Thodupuzha Cricket Stadium constructed by the [[Kerala Cricket Association]] is located in [[Karikkode (village)|Karikkode]], approximately five kilometers away from Thodupuzha,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.keralacricketassociation.com/thodupuzha-cricket-stadium-idukki|title = Thodupuzha Cricket Stadium- Idukki}}</ref> which is large enough to host two cricket matches at the same time.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kozhikode/thodupuzha-to-get-a-world-class-cricket-stadium/articleshow/46952449.cms|title=Thodupuzha to get a world-class cricket stadium &#124; Kozhikode News - Times of India|website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref>
The Thodupuzha Cricket Stadium constructed by the [[Kerala Cricket Association]] is located in [[Karikkode (village)|Karikkode]], approximately five kilometers away from Thodupuzha,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.keralacricketassociation.com/thodupuzha-cricket-stadium-idukki|title = Thodupuzha Cricket Stadium- Idukki}}</ref> which is large enough to host two cricket matches at the same time.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kozhikode/thodupuzha-to-get-a-world-class-cricket-stadium/articleshow/46952449.cms|title=Thodupuzha to get a world-class cricket stadium &#124; Kozhikode News - Times of India|website=[[The Times of India]]|date=17 April 2015 }}</ref>


== Education ==
== Education ==
⚫
* The first center of higher learning in the taluk was [[Newman College, Thodupuzha]]. It was established in 1964 by the Syrian Catholic Diocese of [[Kothamangalam]] and named after [[Cardinal Newman]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://stjosephscollegemoolamattom.ac.in/|title=St. Joseph’s College moolamattom}}</ref>
{{More citations needed section|date=May 2021}}
⚫
* The first center of higher learning in the taluk was [[Newman College, Thodupuzha]]. It was established in 1964 by the Syrian Catholic Diocese of [[Kothamangalam]] and named after [[Cardinal Newman]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=S.T Joseph College Moolamattom|url=http://www.stjosephscollegemoolamattom.ac.in/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* The second college of Thodupuzha was established in 1982: St. Joseph's College in [[Arakkulam]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=Newman College {{!}}|url=http://newmancollege.ac.in/|access-date=2021-12-23|language=en-US}}</ref>
* The second college of Thodupuzha was established in 1982: St. Joseph's College in [[Arakkulam]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=Newman College {{!}}|url=http://newmancollege.ac.in/|access-date=2021-12-23|language=en-US}}</ref>
* The University College of Engineering, Thodupuzha, managed and run by the [[Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala|Mahatma Gandhi University]], Kottayam, is located in Thodupuzha. The college started functioning in 1996.{{citation needed|date=April 2017}}<ref>{{Cite web|title=University College of Engineering Thodupuzha|url=http://www.ucet.ac.in/home|url-status=live}}</ref>
* The University College of Engineering, Thodupuzha, managed and run by the [[Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala|Mahatma Gandhi University]], Kottayam, is located in Thodupuzha. The college started functioning in 1996.{{citation needed|date=April 2017}}<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ucet.ac.in/home|title=University College of Engineering:Home|website=www.ucet.ac.in}}</ref>
[[File:Uce its gng to rain.jpg|thumb|right|University College of Engineering]]
[[File:Uce its gng to rain.jpg|thumb|right|University College of Engineering]]


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* [[Rajesh Touchriver]], film director
* [[Rajesh Touchriver]], film director
* [[Shiny Abraham|Shiny Wilson]] ({{nee}} Abraham), Olympian and Asian Games Medal Winner
* [[Shiny Abraham|Shiny Wilson]] ({{nee}} Abraham), Olympian and Asian Games Medal Winner
* [[Sivaangi Krishnakumar]], singer and film actress
* [[Binni krishnakumar]], singer and dancer
* [[Thodupuzha Vasanthi]], film actress
* [[Thodupuzha Vasanthi]], film actress


Line 171: Line 189:
{{cmn|
{{cmn|
* [[Arakuzha]]
* [[Arakuzha]]
* [[Muvattupuzha]]
* [[Erattupetta]]
* [[Erattupetta]]
* [[Irukallummudi]]
* [[Irukallummudi]]
* [[Kottayam]]
* [[Kottayam]]
* [[Kothamangalam, Kerala|Kothamangalam]]
* [[Kumily]]
* [[Kumily]]
* [[Kuttikkanam]]
* [[Kuttikkanam]]
Line 184: Line 204:
* [[Vazhithala]]
* [[Vazhithala]]
* [[Njandirukky Waterfalls]]
* [[Njandirukky Waterfalls]]
* [[kalvari mount]]
}}
}}


Latest revision as of 06:22, 12 October 2024

For the river, see Thodupuzha river.

Thodupuzha
Municipality[1]
Thodupuzha Civil Station Complex
Thodupuzha Civil Station Complex
Thodupuzha is located in Kerala
Thodupuzha
Thodupuzha
Location in Kerala, India
Thodupuzha is located in India
Thodupuzha
Thodupuzha
Thodupuzha (India)
Coordinates: 9°53′50″N 76°42′50″E / 9.89722°N 76.71389°E / 9.89722; 76.71389
Country India
StateKerala
DistrictIdukki
Government
 • TypeFirst Grade Municipality
 • Member of Legislative AssemblyP.J. Joseph (KC/UDF)
 • Municipal ChairmanMr. Sanish George
Area
 • Total35.43 km2 (13.68 sq mi)
Elevation
40 m (130 ft)
Population
 (2011)[2]
 • Total52,045
 • Density1,500/km2 (3,800/sq mi)
Languages
 • OfficialMalayalam, English
Time zoneUTC+5:30 (IST)
PIN
685584
Telephone code04862
Vehicle registrationKL-38
Nearest cityKottayam, Kochi
Nearest Railway StationsPiravam Road(PVRD) 38 km

Ettumanoor (ETM) 45.9 km
Thrippunithura (TRTR) 50.3 km
Aluva (AWY) 54 km
Kottayam (KTYM) 54.2 km
Ernakulam Jn. / Ernakulam South (ERS) 59.2 km

Ernakulam Town / Ernakulam North (ERN) 59.8 km
Nearest Airport Cochin International Airport (COK) 54 km
Vidhan Sabha constituencyThodupuzha
Lok Sabha constituencyIdukki
ClimateTropical monsoon (Köppen)
Avg. summer temperature32.5 °C (90.5 °F)
Avg. winter temperature23 °C (73 °F)

Thodupuzha ([kaʈ:ap:ɐna]) is a municipality[1] and Taluka in the Idukki district of Kerala, India. It is located 55 km (34.2 mi) west of the district headquarters in Painavu and about 192 km (119.3 mi) north of the state capital Thiruvananthapuram. As per the 2011 Indian census, Thodupuzha has a population of 52,045 people, and a population density of 1,468/km2 (3,800/sq mi).

Thodupuzha is the largest town and main commercial centre in Idukki. It is bordered by the Kottayam district on the southern side and the Ernakulam District on the western side. It also acts as a gateway to various tourist spots in the High Range regions towards its east, including Munnar, Thekkady, and Peermade.[3]

Etymology

[edit]

In retribution to the destruction the then capital of Vadakkaumkoor principality, Karikkode, by Diwan Ramayyan and his ally Yesthacius De Lenoy on the annexation of Vadakkumkoor, by the orders of Maharajah of Travancore, His Highness Anizham Thirunal Marthandavarma, sent his representative to manage as administer of invaded principality of Vadakkumkoor, Elasamprathi Narayana Varma. A nearby area, then named "Kodanthuruth" surrounded by a number of hillocks and rocky areas was selected by the representative of Maharajah of Travancore, to be the new headquarters of the Thodupuzha Taluk. Karikkode was reduced to a petty village as a "Pakuthy". Maharajah also appointed and entrusted Mallan Sankaran of Palliyadi, his Surveyor, for the preparation of land revenue records("Ozhukkuand survey and settlement of Kandezhuthu. As Mallan Sankaran failed to execute his mission due to widespread objection and riot of the local people, survey was only completed during the reign of Karthikathirunal Ramavarma. The place was named Thodupuzha by the Raja of Vadakkumkoor Maluvakon Manikantan who used to reside in his palace at Vaickam and Edavetty(Mattam Palace) near Karikkode, used to mention the nearby flowing wide "Valiyathodu" as thodu (transl. "rivulet") puzha (transl. "river"). It is believed that the stream developed into a river due to the changes in geophysical conditions of the area wherefrom it originates and enter the vally of Arakulam, to be known as Thodupuzha river and the town on the banks of the river came to be known as Thodupuzha. There is another version that defines thodu as "touch" instead. The Mattathil Kovilakam[4] were the protectors and rulers of the region. The last ruler of the region was Elasamprathi Narayana Varma, who originally came from Trivandrum and was the representative of Maharaja of Travancore Anizhamthirunal Marthanda Varma.

History

[edit]
Sarvadhikari Elasamprathi Narayana Varma of Vadakkumkur

The Vadakkumkur kings used to live in Karikode for several years. Vadakkumkur was a late medieval/early modern feudal principality located in Kerala. After the kingdom separated, Thekkumkur became an independent kingdom, while Vadakkumkur became a vassal of Cochin. During the time of Portuguese dominance in Cochin, disputes arose between the Vadakkumkur chieftain and the Kingdom of Cochin over the pepper trade, and the Vadakkumkur raja was killed in battle with Cochin and their Portuguese allies. After the attack, Vadakkumkur palace split into two branches: one was known as Mattathil Palace, which remained in Thondikkuzha; and the other one in Kadanadu Pala.[5] Vadakkumkur and Thekkumkur were later annexed by Marthanda Varma and incorporated into the kingdom of Travancore. Maharaja appointed his representative known as Elasamprathi Narayana Varam to develop the region called Keezhmalainadu. Varam became known as the father of Keezhmalainadu and modern Thodupuzha.[6]

Varam erected many monuments, including the government offices, Pandikasala, and temples. The Karikode mosque and other buildings in Thodupuzha and Muvattupuzha also date from his reign. He was the founder of the new style of tax collection in this region. Thodupuzha is an ancient town with a history dating back to many centuries. The Buddhist and Jain religions which made their first inroads into Kerala in 300 BC left their influence at Thodupuzha and neighboring areas. In the 14th century, Kerala was divided for administrative reasons into several provinces: Venadu, Otanadu, Navishainadu, Munjunadu, Vempolinadu, and Keezhmalainadu. Thodupuzha and Muvattupuzha were in Keezhmalainadu, which was in existence until 1600; in that year it lost a battle with Vadakkumkoor and became a part of it.

St George Syro-Malabar Forane Church at Muthalakodam St. George Forane Church Muthalakodam[2]St. George's Forane Church, Muthalakodam · WP6M+764, SH44, Muthalakodam, Kerala 685605, India, near Thodupuzha, is believed to have constructed before the 13th century. It was re-built several times since then and the current structure was built in the year 1973.

Mylacombu St Thomas Syro-Malabar Church, Thodupuzha Architecture of Churches in Kerala | Christianity in Kerala | Kerala TourismSt. Thomas Forane Church, Mylacombu · WMFX+QPQ, Mylacombu, Kumaramangalam, Idukki, Kerala 685608, India is believed to be built in 660 AD by Syrian Christian settlers in Mylacombu near Thodupuzha who migrated from Kuravilangad, Kodungallur, Angamaly, Kadamattom and Vadakara, Koothattukulam.[7][8]

St Mary's Syro-Malabar Church, Nediyasala St. Mary's Syro Malabar Church, Nediyasala · VMPF+PMM, Thodupuzha, Koothattukulam Road, Nediyasala, Kerala 685608, India near Thodupuzha is another ancient church in the locality.

After Indian independence, from 1949 to 1956, Thodupuzha was a part of the Kottayam district in Travancore-Cochin state.[9] In 1956, when Kerala state was formed, Thodupuzha remained as a part of Kottayam district until 1958, when Ernakulam district was formed on 1 April 1958 and C. A. Mathew (മാത്യു ചൂരപുഴ) became the first member of the Kerala Legislative Assembly from 1957 to 1960, and from 1960 to 1965. In 1972, the Idukki district was formed by merging the Thodupuzha taluk with the Devikulam, Udumbanchola and Peermade taluks, which were part of the Kottayam district.

Demographics

[edit]
Religions in Thodupuzha Taluka(2011)[10]
Religion Percent(%)
Christian
 
 45.15%
Hindu
 
 40.57%
Muslim
 
 14.03%
Sikh
 
 0.01%
Buddhist
 
 0.03%
Jain
 
 0.00%
Not stated
 
 0.2%
Others
 
 0.04%
Old bridge of Thodupuzha

As of 2011 Census,[11] Thodupuzha Taluka with an area of 884.93 km2 (341.67 sq mi) had total population of 325,951; males comprised 49% of the population and females 51%. Literacy rate of Thodupuzha Taluka in 2011 were 95.56% in which, male and female literacy were 96.81% and 94.33% respectively. In Thodupuzha, 9% of the population was under 6 years of age.

Economy and infrastructure

[edit]

Thodupuzha Taluk now bifurcated into Thodupuzha and Idukki Taluks of which most of the lands spread over low range plainland of Middle Kerala is the hub of trade in hill produces like rubber, coconut, peppar, tapioca, banana, ginger, turmeric, pineapple and cocoa. Prior to the real estate drive in the district large areas were cultivated by paddy and now paddy cultivation is abandoned by farmers due to negative situations. In fact, Thodupuzha's economy was mostly driven by agriculture. Farmers in Thodupuzha raise a number of crops, mostly rubber. Other crops such as pineapple, coconut, rice, pepper, cocoa, tapioca, banana, ginger, turmeric are also cultivated. Very recently many entrepreneurs have come up with numerous ventures in small scale and village industries especially as a result of encouragement in state policy since for the last three decades. Corresponding development in business and trade are also visible in this area. The headquarters of the first Ayurvedic Medicine manufacturing industry in the district, The Dhanwanthari Vaidyasala, is in Thodupuzha and now a good number of industries like Nagarjuna, Guardian Controls, Lunar Chappals, Saro Plast, Brahmins industries are few examples. Thodupuzha Municipal Town can credit for its well constructed bypass roads being the foundations of infrastructure in development of the area. A good number of public and private institutions are also evidence its fast development to cope with the need of era.

Neighbouring cities & towns

Climate

[edit]
Climate data for Thodupuzha, Kerala
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 31.8
(89.2) 		32.8
(91.0) 		33.9
(93.0) 		33.9
(93.0) 		32.9
(91.2) 		30.6
(87.1) 		29.8
(85.6) 		29.8
(85.6) 		30.5
(86.9) 		30.6
(87.1) 		30.7
(87.3) 		31.3
(88.3) 		31.6
(88.8)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 22.1
(71.8) 		23.0
(73.4) 		24.6
(76.3) 		25.5
(77.9) 		25.3
(77.5) 		24.2
(75.6) 		23.5
(74.3) 		23.7
(74.7) 		23.8
(74.8) 		23.7
(74.7) 		23.5
(74.3) 		22.4
(72.3) 		23.8
(74.8)
Average precipitation mm (inches) 23
(0.9) 		43
(1.7) 		64
(2.5) 		170
(6.7) 		360
(14.2) 		705
(27.8) 		779
(30.7) 		587
(23.1) 		342
(13.5) 		368
(14.5) 		208
(8.2) 		64
(2.5) 		3,713
(146.3)
Source: Climate-Data.org[12]

Politics

[edit]
Civil Station

Thodupuzha was administered by a village panchayat and village union for several years, but on 1 September 1978, it was upgraded into a municipality. The municipality was formed by merging the Thodupuzha panchayat and the neighboring panchayats of Kumaramangalam, Karicodu, and Manacaud. The municipality was administered by a special officer for ten years. In 1988, elections were held and the first popularly elected municipal council was formed, with N. Chandran as the chairman.

Sri Krishna Swami temple

Sports

[edit]

The Thodupuzha Cricket Stadium constructed by the Kerala Cricket Association is located in Karikkode, approximately five kilometers away from Thodupuzha,[13] which is large enough to host two cricket matches at the same time.[14]

Education

[edit]
University College of Engineering

Notable people

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b "Grama Panchayaths" (PDF). lsgkerala.gov.in.
  2. ^ "Kerala (India): Districts, Cities and Towns - Population Statistics, Charts and Map".
  3. ^ "Kudumbashree.org subdistrict 991020-12".
  4. ^ "Government of Kerala kudumbashree". Government of Kerala. 2004. Retrieved 19 November 2020.
  5. ^ Nair, K. K. (2013). By Sweat and Sword: Trade, Diplomacy and War in Kerala Through the Ages. KK Nair. p. 157. ISBN 9788173049736.
  6. ^ AIYA, V. NAGAM (1906). TRAVANCORE STATE MANUAL: with foreword by VED from VICTORIA INSTITUTIONS. VICTORIA INSTITUTIONS, Aaradhana, DEVERKOVIL 673508 India www.victoriainstitutions.com. p. 48.
  7. ^ "St. Thomas Forane Church Mailacombu::Kothamangalam Eparchy:: Syro Malabar Church Parish". www.syromalabarchurch.in. Retrieved 6 June 2021.
  8. ^ "Architecture of Churches in Kerala | Christianity in Kerala | Kerala Tourism". Christianity. Retrieved 6 June 2021.
  9. ^ K. M. Mathew, ed. (2006). Unknown. Malayala Manorama. p. 116.
  10. ^ "Population by Religious Community". Census of India. Archived from the original on 13 September 2015. Retrieved 28 March 2018.
  11. ^ Kerala, Directorate of Census Operations. District Census Handbook, Idukki (PDF). Thiruvananthapuram: Directorate of Census Operations, Kerala. p. 78,79. Retrieved 14 July 2020.
  12. ^ "CLIMATE: THODUPUZHA", Climate-Data.org. Web: [1].
  13. ^ "Thodupuzha Cricket Stadium- Idukki".
  14. ^ "Thodupuzha to get a world-class cricket stadium | Kozhikode News - Times of India". The Times of India. 17 April 2015.
  15. ^ "St. Joseph's College moolamattom".
  16. ^ "Newman College |". Retrieved 23 December 2021.
  17. ^ "University College of Engineering:Home". www.ucet.ac.in.
  18. ^ "Formez-Vous! Formations CPF en 24H avec English Coach BORDEAUX Coaching+Formation Anglais TOEIC Formations Anglais CPF VisioConference Cours de Langues Centre de Test TOEIC Formation Anglais & Langues BORDEAUX".
[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Thodupuzha.
Wikivoyage has a travel guide for Thodupuzha.
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