Town in Kerala, India
Erumely, also spelt Erumeli, is a town and panchayat located in the south-eastern part of Kottayam district in Kerala state, India. Erumely is situated 49 km (30 mi) east of Kottayam town and 133 km (83 mi) north of capital city Thiruvananthapuram. It is situated on the way to Sabarimala and during pilgrimage season, Erumely and its surroundings will be crowded by devotees from different parts of Kerala as well as other states. Erumely is also renowned for its religious harmony and prosperity between Hindus and Muslims which existed from the early periods. It is a place which have strong roots in legends and myths associated with Hindu deity Ayyappa. A new airport has been proposed in Erumeli. The village is nourished by Manimala River.
Etymology
Erumely is the name extracted from Erumakolli ("killed the buffalo"). A myth tells that Lord Ayyappa killed "Mahishi" in this place on the way to collect a tiger's milk. Mahish means buffalo and "Eruma" in Malayalam and hence the name extract "erumakolli".
Erumely is a historic town located in the Kottayam district of Kerala, India. Its history is deeply rooted in religious and cultural significance. The town is renowned for its role in fostering religious harmony, as it is a meeting point for two major pilgrimage centers, Sabarimala and Vavarunada.
Ancient Roots: Erumely has ancient roots, with historical records suggesting its existence for centuries. The town has been a significant trade and cultural center, attracting people from various backgrounds.
Religious Significance: The town gained prominence due to its association with the Sabarimala pilgrimage. It serves as the gateway for the traditional route to Sabarimala, a famous Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. The mosque at Erumely, known as Vavarunada, is equally revered, symbolizing the religious harmony between Hindus and Muslims.
Vavarunada Mosque: The Vavarunada Mosque is dedicated to Vavar, a Muslim friend of Lord Ayyappa. Pilgrims, irrespective of their faith, visit this mosque during their journey to Sabarimala, emphasizing the spirit of unity and brotherhood.
Cultural Heritage: Erumely has preserved its cultural heritage through various traditions and rituals associated with the Sabarimala pilgrimage. The town continues to attract pilgrims and tourists alike, contributing to the cultural tapestry of the region.
Modern Developments: Over the years, Erumely has witnessed modern developments in infrastructure and facilities to accommodate the increasing number of visitors. The town has adapted to the changing times while preserving its cultural and religious heritage.
In summary, Erumely's history is intertwined with its role as a religious and cultural hub, fostering harmony and unity among people of different faiths. The town's significance in the context of the Sabarimala pilgrimage and its unique blend of traditions make it a remarkable part of Kottayam's heritage.
The story of Ayyappa and Vavar is a significant aspect of the Sabarimala pilgrimage, emphasizing the spirit of unity and brotherhood between Hindu and Muslim communities.
Legend of Ayyappa:
According to Hindu mythology, Ayyappa is believed to be the son of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu in the form of Mohini. He was born to defeat the demoness Mahishi, who could only be vanquished by a child born of Shiva and Vishnu. Ayyappa grew up in the forest under the guidance of the sage Parashurama.
Vavar - The Muslim Friend:
Vavar, also known as Vavarunada, is a legendary figure associated with Ayyappa's story. According to popular belief, Vavar was a warrior who fought alongside Lord Ayyappa against the demoness Mahishi. Their friendship transcended religious boundaries, symbolizing harmony and unity.
The Battle Against Mahishi:
Ayyappa, with his divine powers, confronted Mahishi and successfully defeated her in a fierce battle. Vavar, displaying unwavering loyalty and friendship, fought alongside Ayyappa, contributing to the victory over the demoness.
Vavar's Final Request:
After the battle, as a token of appreciation for Vavar's loyalty, Ayyappa granted him a wish. Vavar, instead of asking for personal gains, requested that he be allowed to guard the route to Sabarimala, ensuring the safety of pilgrims regardless of their faith. Ayyappa granted Vavar's wish, and thus the Vavarunada Mosque was established at Erumely, marking the meeting point of Hindu and Muslim traditions.
Religious Harmony at Sabarimala:
The story of Ayyappa and Vavar is commemorated during the annual pilgrimage to Sabarimala. Pilgrims, known as Ayyappa devotees, visit both the Ayyappa temple and the Vavarunada Mosque, emphasizing the inclusivity and unity embedded in the legend.
This tale not only exemplifies the triumph of good over evil but also underscores the importance of mutual respect and coexistence between different religious communities. The shared reverence for Ayyappa and Vavar at Sabarimala continues to be a powerful symbol of religious harmony in the region.
Location
Erumely is on the Kanjirappally - Pathanamthitta Route. A small river, Koratty (originally known as Manimala River), marks the entrance of Erumely town, which is exactly 14 km from Mundakayam, the gate of Highrange area. World Malayalee association has chosen Erumely as one of the three places in kottayam and pathanamthitta to set up the fifth airport in kerala and proposal is pending for approval. Perunthenaruvi Falls, the scenic waterfall near Vechoochira is located about 13 km (8.1 mi) from Erumely. Cheruvally estate also provides a great experience.
Demographics
As of 2011[update] India census, Erumely had a population of 43,437 in which 21199 are males and 22230 are females. Average sex ratio is 1049, which is lower than the state average of 1084. The literacy rate of males is 97.53% and 95.71% for females.[1]
Administration
The panchayath of Erumely was formed on 15 August 1953. It spreads over an area of 82.36 km² with 40% of forest coverage. It is surrounded by Parathodu, Kanjirappally and Mundakkayam panchayaths in north, Chittar panchayath in east and south, Manimala, Chirakkadavu panchayaths in west.[2] The panchayath is divided into 23 wards for its administrative convenience.
Wards in Erumely panchayath
| Pazhayidom
|
Chenappady
|
| Kizhakkekkara
|
Cheruvally estate
|
| Ozhakkanadu
|
Vazhakkala
|
| Nerchappara
|
Karisseri
|
| Kanamala
|
Umikkuppa
|
| Mukkoottuthara
|
Muttappally
|
| Elivalikkara
|
Propose
|
| Pambavalley
|
Erumely town
|
| Poriyan mala
|
Kanakappalam
|
| Sreenipuram
|
Vazhakkala
|
| Irumpoonnikkara
|
Thumarampara
|
Economy
The majority of the people are farmers (the town is surrounded by rubber tree plantations) or are in business.
Before it was a small town, now its undergoing developments, because of the temple, Masjid and its integrated, non-discriminatory society.
Important festivals
Erumely Pettathullal
The "Pettathullal" or ritual dance associated with the killing of the demoness Mahishi, hosted in the Malayalam months of Vrishikam and Dhanu (December and January) is the most noted festival in Erumely.
Chandanakkudam
This is another important festival which is conducted as a preliminary event to the historic pettathullal. The festival starts from the mosque with the "Malisa" procession.
Climate
The climate of Erumely is classified under Köppen. The place remains humid throughout the year with an annual temperature of 31 °C. Among the months, March and April are the hottest. The south west monsoon arrives from mid May to August providing significant amount of rainfall. The average annual rainfall here is 2620 mm. Winter normally starts from December to February.
| Climate data for Erumely, Kerala
|
| Month
|
Jan
|
Feb
|
Mar
|
Apr
|
May
|
Jun
|
Jul
|
Aug
|
Sep
|
Oct
|
Nov
|
Dec
|
Year
|
| Mean daily maximum °C (°F)
|
31.1
(88.0)
|
31.9
(89.4)
|
33.2
(91.8)
|
33.3
(91.9)
|
32.7
(90.9)
|
30.6
(87.1)
|
30.0
(86.0)
|
30.0
(86.0)
|
30.6
(87.1)
|
30.3
(86.5)
|
30.1
(86.2)
|
30.5
(86.9)
|
31.2
(88.2)
|
| Mean daily minimum °C (°F)
|
22.1
(71.8)
|
22.8
(73.0)
|
24.4
(75.9)
|
25.2
(77.4)
|
25.2
(77.4)
|
24.1
(75.4)
|
23.6
(74.5)
|
23.7
(74.7)
|
23.8
(74.8)
|
23.6
(74.5)
|
23.3
(73.9)
|
22.3
(72.1)
|
23.7
(74.6)
|
| Average precipitation mm (inches)
|
22
(0.9)
|
39
(1.5)
|
68
(2.7)
|
157
(6.2)
|
254
(10.0)
|
454
(17.9)
|
466
(18.3)
|
328
(12.9)
|
240
(9.4)
|
320
(12.6)
|
211
(8.3)
|
61
(2.4)
|
2,620
(103.1)
|
| Source: Climate-Data.org[3]
|
Educational institutions
St. Thomas H.S.S, Devasom Board H.S.S, Vavar Memorial H.S.S, and MT High School are the well known higher secondary schools in Erumely. St. Thomas H.S.S started in 1937, and is under the Erumely Forane Church. MTHS Kanakappalam started in 1936. the oldest school in this area is MTHS, Kanakappalam Nirmala Public School, Shermount Public School are the schools without higher secondary studies.
MES College, on the way to Mukkoottuthara and Shermount College of Arts and Commerce which is located 2 km away from Erumely town. Both colleges are affiliated to Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam. Assisi Hospital and Nursing College is also at Mukkoottuthara. Amaljyothy Engineering College, under the Syro-Malabar Catholic diocese of Kanjirapally, is in nearby Koovappally. Sree Sabareesa College is an Aided arts and science college is located at Murikkumvayal, Mundakayam. This college is located at Erumely district panchayath division. Sree Sabareesa college is the first aided college in India under a tribal management
Access
Road
Erumely can be approached through Mundakkayam, Kanjirappally, Manimala, Kanamala, Ponkunnam, Vechoochira, or Ranni. People coming from Kottayam can reach through Kanjirappally. People coming from Kochi can reach through Thripunithura, Pala, Ponkunnam, Vizhikkithodu. People from the Highranges can access Erumely through Mundakkayam - Erumely state highway. From the capital city Trivandrum, Erumely is accessed through Ranni.
NH220 National Highway passes 10 km near to Erumely through 26th mile, which makes it reachable easily.
Railway
Nearest Rail Heads are Kottayam, Chengannur, Changanassery, and Thiruvalla.
Airport
Cochin International Airport (119 km) and Thiruvananthapuram Airport (140 km) are the nearest airports. Believers Church informed Pinarayi the consent to hand over land for Sabarigiri International airport. The airport at Cheruvally is approved by both governments and may expect to start soon.[6]
On 19 July 2017, the Kerala Government has announced the construction of Airport at Cheruvally Estate of Harrisons Plantations near Erumely, to facilitate travel of Sabarimala pilgrims.[7]
Proposed airport
State and central governments have approved an airport for Sabarimala and Cheruvally estate near Erumely is one among three sites. The other sites were government sites and whether Cheruvally is a government land or not will be announced by court in a year. The case is in court. If implemented, it will be a green field airport with no industries or commercial building allowed with a huge radius of 50 km or more. The name of the proposed airport is Sabarigiri International Airport or shortened as "SABARI AIRPORT".
Distances from various places
India
