Nattalam: A Flourishing Land
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Nattalam, peaceful sacred space |
Nattalam, a verdant village located 10 kilometers west of Padmanabhapuram, was later fondly called “Nettaalam.” The king regularly sought updates on Nattalam’s agricultural prosperity during each season (poham), guided by a cherished saying:
“When Nattalam flourishes, the entire land thrives.”
This saying reflects the village’s central role in the region’s well-being.
Temples and Their Stewards
In this vibrant region stood two revered temples:
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Thiru Nattaalam Shiva Temple, located on the eastern side of Therpakulam.
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Shankara Naaraayanan Temple, situated to the west.
The ShankaraNaaraayanan Temple was especially significant, holding considerable assets, primarily lands cultivated by impoverished people for their livelihood. Oversight of this temple and its estates fell to Raman Pillai, a member of the Shudra caste—positioned within the Brahmanical order beneath Brahmana, Vaishya, and Kshatriya.
During the 17th century, individuals from the Shudra caste held influential positions in the Thiruvithaangoor (Travancore) kingdom. Benefiting from land grants and financial resources, some rose to enjoy privileges similar to the Kshatriyas, particularly in temple management and land administration.
Among them, Raman Pillai stood out, blessed with both wealth and social standing. He had two sisters: Devahi Ammai and Bhagavathi Ammai.
A Cross-Caste Friendship and Marriage
One day, a Namboodhiri priest named Vaasu Devan arrived from Maruthankulakarai near Kayamkulam in Kollam, to perform rituals at the ShankaraNaaraayanan Temple. During his stay, a warm friendship developed between him and Raman Pillai. Their bond deepened into familial ties when Vaasu Devan married Devahi Ammai.
In traditional Namboodhiri families, only the eldest son could marry within their caste, while younger sons were expected to take wives from the Nair or Ambalavaasi communities, both categorized under the Shudra caste. However, children from these unions could not inherit from the Namboodhiri lineage. The Nairs followed a matrilineal system (Marumakkal Thaayam), where inheritance passed through the mother's line.
Despite these social dynamics, Vaasu Devan and Devahi Ammai found happiness, embracing their roles within this framework and leading a joyful, stable life.
A House Named for Love
In a touching gesture, Vaasu Devan named Devahi Ammai’s house and lands in Nattalam after his native place, calling them “Maruthankulakarai.”
Birth of Neelakandan
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Neelakandan's birth in Nattalam |
On April 23, 1712 (10th Chiththirai in the Tamil calendar), the couple welcomed a son. They named him “Neelagandan” in honor of Lord Shiva.
Following the Marumakkal Thaayam tradition, Neelakandan was designated as the head of the household, being the eldest nephew of the eldest sister. Later, the couple was also blessed with a daughter, Lakshmikutti, born five years after Neelakandan.
Shifting Social Norms
During this period, the Naayar community saw gradual social elevation. For instance, an old rule that once restricted Nayar homes to be built only with palm leaves instead of clay tiles began to be relaxed. However, those below the Naayar caste, such as Nadars and Ezhavas, continued to face harsh societal discrimination and remained on the margins.
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