The Journey of Suffering: From Travancore to Padmanabhapuram
In September 1750, Devasahayam was transported from Travancore to the capital, Padmanabhapuram, in a public spectacle. He was bound and paraded on a buffalo—a deliberate humiliation meant to break his spirit. Yet, Devasahayam remained serene, boldly declaring his readiness to die for Christ. According to the Puttari chronicle, he cried out with unshaken faith, expressing his love for Jesus even in the face of death.
The Limekiln Miracle
Upon reaching Padmanabhapuram, Devasahayam was subjected to a horrific punishment: he was cast into a large limekiln, where the heat alone was believed enough to cause certain death. When guards eventually searched for his remains, they were astounded to find him alive and kneeling, his lips still praising God. This miracle, recorded in Puttari, states: “Officially wed; a man of historical lineage; three hours in the unjust kiln…”—a testimony to the power of prayer and divine protection.
Imprisonment and Consolation
After surviving the limekiln, Devasahayam was imprisoned once more in Travancore. Divine Providence allowed Gnanappu’s mother, who lived nearby, to witness his suffering and send Gnanappu, his faithful wife, to visit frequently. She brought him fruits, wept over his wounds, and prayed beside him. Captain De Lannoy, too, visited him often, offering words of spiritual encouragement:
“God never abandons those who live for Him; He never deceives; He dedicates Himself to them.”
“God never abandons those who live for Him; He never deceives; He dedicates Himself to them.”
A Family Converted by Faith
News of Devasahayam’s torment reached Gnanappu’s father, who became gravely ill with sorrow. In the depths of his cell, Devasahayam prayed earnestly, and the man was miraculously healed. This healing became a turning point: both Gnanappu’s parents embraced Christianity, moved by the living witness of faith and healing.
Converts Among the Prison Guards
In prison, Devasahayam was visited by several royal envoys sent to coax him back to his former faith.. Instead of yielding, his fervor and spiritual wisdom converted many of them to Christianity. Alarmed by this, the priests (Poojaris) and Travancore officials began driving away the public and forbidding any contact with him.
Council Divided: Debate Over Execution
The Padmanabhapuram Council convened to decide Devasahayam’s fate. His growing influence among the upper castes, who began converting, stirred fears of social disruption. The proposal to execute him sparked intense debate. While some in the Nair community advocated clemency, others demanded death. Even the notion of torturing fellow countrymen who shared his Christian faith was questioned, revealing the moral complexity of the council.
Pressure Mounts from Thalavai and the Namboodiri
Two powerful voices—Thalavai and a leading Namboodiri Brahmin—pressed the king for immediate resolution, warning that delay could ignite a people’s uprising. Conceding to the pressure, the king ordered Devasahayam’s transfer to another prison, initiating a grueling journey marked by physical abuse and spiritual triumph.
Through Puliyoorkurichy: The Miraculous Spring
While passing through Puliyoorkurichy, the guards tortured Devasahayam mercilessly. There, near a large rock now called Muttidichchan Rock, he struck the ground, and a miraculous fountain of water sprang forth—a divine reassurance in his moment of greatest need. This site remains a place of pilgrimage and healing.
The Path of Pain and Grace: Through Villages and Memories
Devasahayam’s journey continued through Brahmapuram, Manakkarai, Villukkuri, Madathattuvilai, and Appattuvilai. Historical records recall that Marthanda Varma was once saved by a Nadar woman in Appattuvilai, hiding him from assassins in her thatched hut. In gratitude, he granted her land, now known as EluthanKottukoam.
Torture and Local Kindness at Appattuvilai
Later, during his persecution, Devasahayam was tied to a stone pillar near this temple. Though under guard, locals risked punishment to bring him palm jaggery and water, an act of compassion etched in memory. A stone cross and a birch tree now stand in his honor, and nearby, St. Anthony’s Church bears witness to his presence. Many believe that prayers here bring healing from sickness.
Toward Parvathipuram: The Final Leg
The saint’s final journey continued through Parvathipuram, passing Kandanvilai, Karankadu, Nullivilai, Konnakuzhivilai, Alur, and Chungankadai. Each stop along this path is hallowed by his footprints, a sacred trail of pain endured for faith in Christ.
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