History

Muzhakkunnu Grama Panchayat, situated in Iritty Taluk of Kannur District, encompasses the historically and culturally significant Muzhakkunnu region.

History of the Place Name

• Muzhakkunnu was once known as Mridangashailanilayam.
• According to local legend, Goddess Durga is believed to have descended from heaven to this region in the form of a Mizhavu (traditional percussion instrument).
• The name Mridangashailam is believed to have gradually evolved into Mizhavukunnu, then Mozhakkunnu, and eventually Muzhakkunnu.

Kottayam Royal Dynasty and Pazhassi Raja

• The Muzhakkunnu region was historically under the rule of the Kottayam Royal Dynasty.
• The land is closely associated with Veera Pazhassi Raja, a prominent figure in the history of resistance against British rule. The region was one of the important centres associated with his life and struggles.

Cultural Heritage – Connection with the Origin of Kathakali

• Muzhakkunnu has a significant connection with the development and history of Kathakali, Kerala's traditional classical dance-drama.
• Historical accounts associate Kottayathu Thampuran with the refinement of Kathakali and the composition of the famous Kottayam works — Bakavadham, Kalyanasougandhikam, Kirmmeeravadham, and Kalakeyavadham — at the renowned Muzhakkunnu Mridangashaileshwari Temple.
• The famous Kathakali invocation, “Mathangananamabjavasaramanim…”, is traditionally associated with the worship of Porkali Bhagavathi at this temple.

Formation of the Modern Panchayat

• The modern administrative history of Muzhakkunnu began during the period of the erstwhile Madras Government, when Village Panchayats were established around Village Offices.
• Following the formation of the State of Kerala, the Panchayat gradually developed into its present form through development activities supported by people's participation.
• The administrative headquarters of the Panchayat is located at Kakkayangad.

Boundaries

East: Aralam River
West: Thillankeri Grama Panchayat
South: Peravoor and Maloor Grama Panchayats
North: Aralam River and Iritty Municipality