History

Muzhakkunnu Grama Panchayat

Muzhakkunnu Grama Panchayat is situated in Iritty Taluk of Kannur District. Muzhakkunnu is a village region with a rich ancient and historical heritage.

History of the Place Name

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

The Kottayam 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, one of the prominent figures 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 deep historical and cultural connection with the origin and development of Kathakali, Kerala's traditional classical art form.
  • According to historical accounts, Kottayathu Thampuran refined Kathakali and composed the renowned Kottayam plays—Bakavadham, Kalyanasougandhikam, Kirmeeravadham, and Kalakeyavadham—at the famous Muzhakkunnu Mridangashaileshwari Temple.
  • The well-known Kathakali invocation, “Mathangaananamabjavasaramanim…”, is traditionally associated with the worship of Porkali Bhagavathi, the presiding deity of this temple.

Formation of the Modern Panchayat

  • The modern administrative history of Muzhakkunnu began during the period of the former 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 with active public participation.
  • The administrative headquarters of Muzhakkunnu Grama Panchayat is located at Kakkayangad.

Geographical Boundaries

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