Bharananganam
Grama Panchayat

History and Profile of Bharananganam Grama Panchayat

It is believed that the Bharananganam region has been inhabited since ancient times. The earliest inhabitants are believed to have been the Negrito people, followed by the Dravidians and, later, the Aryans. According to local legend, the name of the place originated from the term “Paranganam,” referring to the forested area where Bhimasena, one of the Pandavas, is believed to have performed his rituals. Over time, the name is said to have evolved into “Bharananganam.”

Bharananganam has played its own significant role in various movements and struggles that took place in Kerala in connection with social reform, the national freedom movement, and the movement for responsible government. I. D. Chacko, popularly known as “Pappachan” of Machayani, Bharananganam, was one of the persons who actively participated in the national movement.

In 1897, an English school was started in a building constructed through the initiative of Bharananganam Church and subsequently handed over to the Government. On 15 August 1952, a Village Library and Reading Room was established at Vezhangana.

The Punalur–Muvattupuzha State Highway passes through the northern part of the Panchayat. Remnants of the ancient mountain route that was once used for trade with Tamil Nadu can still be found in Bharananganam.

The Sree Krishna Temple at Bharananganam, which is traditionally believed to have been established by the Pandavas, is a renowned place of worship. The Vazhaneekkavu Temple at Edappady is another ancient temple of historical and cultural significance. The Sree Krishna Swamy Temple at Alanad is also believed to have been constructed about a thousand years ago.

The tomb of St. Alphonsa, a revered saint, is situated at Bharananganam. Thousands of pilgrims visit the place every year seeking blessings. The Meenachil River and its surrounding areas, temples and other places of religious and cultural importance attract visitors from different parts of the country.

Ayyampara and Paramburamppara are among the areas in the Panchayat that have considerable potential for development as tourist destinations. The tomb of St. Alphonsa and its associated memorials, together with Bharananganam Church, have made the Panchayat an internationally renowned centre of pilgrimage.

The Sree Krishna Temple at Bharananganam, traditionally believed to have been established by the Pandavas nearly 7,000 years ago, is another major attraction. The churches at Pravithanam and Elanthatottam, as well as the areas of Kayyoor and Koovakkad included in the State Tourism Map, are also places of tourist and cultural interest.

Kayyoor is also associated with the legendary stories mentioned in the Aithihyamala, according to which Bhima is believed to have lived in the Kulappurath area. Other notable institutions and attractions include St. Joseph College of Engineering at Choondacherry, established in 2002, and the headquarters of the Cherupushpa Mission League at Bharananganam. These places have considerable potential to gain greater recognition beyond the region.

The feast of St. Alphonsa is one of the major annual celebrations of the Panchayat. Bharananganam is the native place of St. Alphonsa, the first woman from India to be canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church. Following her canonization, the Panchayat, where her tomb is located, has developed into an important pilgrimage destination for devotees from across the world.

Health Facilities

Bharananganam has several healthcare institutions providing medical services to the local population. The Choondacherry Ayurveda Dispensary, Pravithanam Homoeo Dispensary, Alanad Orappuzhakkal Homoeo Dispensary and Ullanad Primary Health Centre provide primary healthcare services. In addition, IHM Hospital is functioning at Bharananganam.

Educational Institutions

Several educational institutions operate in the Panchayat under both the public and private sectors. Alphonsa Residential School at Bharananganam and St. Joseph College of Engineering at Choondacherry are among the prominent educational institutions in the Panchayat.

Libraries and Cultural Institutions

Bharananganam Library, Edappady Samskarika Nilayam and Ullanad Reading Room are among the libraries and cultural institutions functioning in the Panchayat. These institutions contribute significantly to promoting reading, cultural activities and community engagement.

Government and Public Offices

The Kerala State Electricity Board office, Village Office and Telephone Exchange are located at Bharananganam. The Kerala Water Authority office is situated at Pala, while the Krishi Bhavan is located at Vezhangana. In addition, around a dozen other government and public offices are functioning within the Panchayat, providing various essential services to the people..