Malabar and Kerala Studies   A site dedicated to Toponomy & Village Studies in Kerala with special reference to Malabar   

Dr. N M Nampoothiri
 
 

All My Works

  
Survey of stone inscriptions of Malabar

(Chera period an of later period) The work was initiated by Vallathol Educational Trust, Sukapuram in collaboration with Dr. M.R. Raghava varior, Epigraphist, University of Calicut.

Inscriptions re-examined: 1. Elima/a 2. Eramam 3. ThiruvaToor 4.Triccammaram5.Peruvanam6.Ku/athur, 7 Thirumittakkode

New inscriptions identified: 1. Muthukattu Kaavu 2. Ve/am 3. Manga/am 4. Kumbidi 3. Mavara 4. Sukapuram 7. Iranikka/am 8. Naduvannur

Survey of Archival records, Palm leaf manuscripts etc
1. A series of investigations are made to locate early and medieval manuscripts, written in palm leaf and in paper.

2. Re-discovery of Zamorins archival materials of 15th to 20thcAD,was one of the major investigation. This followed a series of investigations to identify historical places, feudal families, families of occupational classes, places of cultural activities, etc. the records are preserved in Vallathol Educational Trust, Sukapuram, Kerala.

3. Verified palm leaf manuscripts of Kadannamanna palace and more than 100 works of literary, and historical importance were identified. Three copies of Kera/o/pathi, the traditional history of Kerala written in Palm leaves are also discovered. All records arelisted and kept in the palace

4. More than one hundred palm leaf manuscripts kept in Amarampalam Palace were verified and listed.

5. More than thirty important palm leaf manuscripts were discovered from Paranampi's house at Ma/appuram. The family was one among the Ministers of Zamorins of Calicut. A Kera/o/pathi record collected from the house is supposed to be the one published by Gundert in 1844 A D.Records are kept in the house itself

6. More than 16 Palm leaf manuscripts are verified from branch of Kottaka/ Koovi/akam at Kondotti, where the famous scholar of Sanskrit Manorama thampuratti lived. The very same Grammatical work on Paniniyam under the title Manorama written by the Thampuratty is also verified and listed

7. A survey of records for place name studies resulted in highlighting the Lokanarkaavu temple records kept in Calicut University archives. The records brought to limelight the lineology of some of the characters described in the Ballads of north Malabar.

8. A manuscript obtained from M .T. N. Nair of Kuutalluur maTatum tekkeppaTTu House ,Kuttipuram is identified as the first Malayalam prose writing and' the first indigenous record on Haider's attack in Malabar during 18th cAD. The record also has the dimensions as the first eyewitness writing and the first Autobiography in Malayalam. The original record Vellayute Charithram is discovered fromVaidyamadom family at Koottanad

9. A Keralolpathi record is discovered from Vaidyamadam at Kootanad.

10. Verification of records of Regional Archives, Calicut for place name studies resulted in the discovery of some very important Manuscripts

a. A file of agricultural proverbs Krishi pazhamChollukal collected by British authorities in 1882 AD which was the basis of planning of agriculture in Malabar.
b. A lengthy folksong on Agriculture in Malabar supposed to be written by the legendary character Parasurama.
c. Records related to survey of Goldmines in Wynad
d. Agreements of European Companies and Zamorins of Calicut for establishing iron mining in Zamorins land.

11. Verified P V Krishna Variar's Personal collectionof Books and manuscripts which resulted in obtaining the first Malayalam translation of Lilathilakam, a famous grammatical treatise of 14th cAD and

12. Identified a family history of Desamangalam mana.Manuscript.PV Krishnan Variar
Survey of prehistoric sites and Historical sites
1. Identified Tippu’s fort at Calicut (Feroke) and Government of Kerala declared it as historical monument.
2. Identified and brought to light the Tovari a prehistoric rock cut shelter of Edakkal series in collaboration with Dr. M.R. RaghavaVarior.
3. Conducted a survey in Wynad on historical sites and monuments to build up a historical museum at Manantavadi, as-per the directives of the District Collector.
4. Survey and study conducted in Puthiyangadi and Varakkal rock cut cave at Calicut.
5. Identified the ancestral house of Vilwamangalam Swamiar, the famous Sanskrit poet at Tavanur on the basis of literary, historical and archaeological evidences.
6. A survey of archaelogical monuments and historical sites was conducted as per the request of District Collector, Malappuram in Malappuram area especially at Tiru navaya.
7. Identified the ancestral house and palace complex of Zamorins of Calicut at Nediyirupppu, and examined the Vastu basis in planning the palace complex
8. Examined the planning of Kottakal palace complex to .understand the influence of Indian Vastu sastra in planning the palace complex.
9. Identified the Mint area of Zamorins of calicut.
10.Identified the original palace site of Zamorins at Calicut.
11. Identified the 13th Century Chinese street and 15th Century Portuguese fort area at Calicut.
12. Surveyed Tirunavay to understand the toponymy of the area and to resconstruct the Sacred Geography.
13 Surveyed Kavalappara area to understand the myth of KarakkalammaandKavalapparaSwaroopam.(Surveyed-1995-96).
14Surveyed,andinvestigated and identified Brahmin families of 8thC AD mentioned in Chera inscription dated 896 AD of Iranikkulam. (Reports)
15 Surveyed, and investigated and identified Brahmin families of 8thCAD mentioned in Chera inscription dated 896AD of Iranikkulam. (Reports)
16 Toponymical survts are co;rElucted to identify the cultural backgrou d Of~illgeS of Chennamangular, Mukkam, Kodenchery, Tiruvaccira, Naduvanur and Bigbazaar in Calicut Taluk ..
17 .Investigated the historical and cultural importance of the Kollengode Chieftains family situated on the banks of Bharatappula and a monograph is prepared to force the academic world for protecting and preserving the palace complex .
18 Historical importance of the historical monument "Mananchira" was brought to lime light based on historical records which led to the preservation of the tank at Calicut city.
19 A survey at the Village Thirumittakode where 10th century Chola inscription is preserved is conducted and a detailed study in prepared

Details of Research Papers Toponomy and Cultural History of Kerala
1. Indian Toponomy - A Critical evaluation of the work done in this field in India. Analysis of different approaches seen in Indian Toponymy with an exhaustive Bibliography of 300 entries. Bibliographical and information Bulletin, International Centre of ONOMASTICS, Belgium. ONOMA Vol. XXIII PP 118-148. 1979. (First International Paper on Indian Toponomy) Monograph
2. Indian Toponomy - A study of modern Trends with exhaustive Bibliography:. Evaluation of Modern approaches with a Bibliography of 450 entries. Special number of PLANS Bulletin, Souvenir, Place name Society, Trivandrum PP. 17­63, 1985. Monograph
3. Stalapperenna Ahallyakku moksham - 1 : Need of place name studies in Kerala, Malayala Nadu April, Quilon, 1976.
4. Stalapperenna Ahallyakku Moksham - 2 : Need of place name studies in Kerala, Malayala Nadu April, Quilon, 1976.
5. Mukkavum Chuttupaadum : Analysis of Place names around Mukkam - A cultural study MICO Souvenir, Mukkam 1981.
6. Kozhikotte Kozhi : A study of the place name prefix kozhi, its relation to tamil, and Hydronymic nature. Government Coliege Magazine, Quilandy 1982 PP 148-151.
7. Chennamangallur : A study of the place name Chennamangallur and cultural background of the area. Souvenir, Chennamangallur H.S, 1982.

8. Meenchanthayude katha : A study of the name Meenchantha.Government High school souvenir, Meenchantha, 1982.
9. Kodancheri: A study of the name and the cultural background. Varshantha Government college sourvenir, Kodancheri, 1985.
10. Malabarile nattu peerukal : Peculiarities of territorial names (nadus) in Malabar Pooram Souvenir, Payyannur, 1985.
11. A study of place names in Kerala : Need of field name studies in Kerala. Perspective in place name studies, Proceedings of the national seminar. PLANS, Trivandrum, 1987.
12. Historical geography and place names : The evolution of Calicut port. An exhaustive study of cultural evolution of Calicut city with newly prepared cultural maps. Introductory study, Directory of Calicut Corporation, 1980.
13. Historical geography and the Medieval pattern of the Rajadhani of Zamorins of calicut : Study of the city pattern of the medieval concepts of Vasthu Silpa. Vlth All India Conference of place name society of India, Nagarjuna University, 1984(See map).
14. Patterns of Brahmin settlement in calicut taluk : Paper submitted to International School of Dravidian Linguists, Pondichery; 1985.
15. Tiruvachirayeppatti chila charitra soochanakal : Historical antiquity of Tiruvachira temple. Tiruvachira temple souvenir. June 12, 1983.
16. Zamorins and the pariharapuram temple: A new reference on pariharapuram temple in Zamorins records. Pariharapuram temple souvenir 1985.
17. A study of 'uur' Suffixes in the Calictu District: Details for uur settlement and their distribution in Calicut district. Paper presented in the Dravidian Linguistic Conference, Calicut 1979.
18. Modern trends of place name studies in Kerala : Principles to be adopted in place names studies of Kerala. PLANS, perspectives in place name studies, National Seminar proceedings, Trivandrum, 1985.
19. Kunnalakkonte Kulanagari : A toponymical re-construction of Calicut port. Pragathi, Calicut, 1992.
20. Fort at Feroke : A description and identification of Feroke Fort of Tippu sulthan based on Toponymy Saayanna. Government Evening College Magazine, Calicut, 1986.
21.Identification of Zamorins ancestoral House at Nediyiruppu : Identification of the early palace area, temples, fort etc. of Neduyirippu Village in Kondotti, Eranadu. Souvenir, Nediyirupu Karinkali Kavu, 1990.
22. Lokanarkavu record: Place's around Lokanar Kavu temple.
A paper on the famous Lokanar Kavu temple and Palm leaf manuscript. Paper presented in PLANS seminar at Badagara, 1989.
23. Identification of the Zamorins mint at calicut : Paper presented in the Annual conference of the Place Names society of India, Mysore, 1994.
24. Manaassery village. UP. school Smaranika Manassery, 1990.
25. Peerum Porulum : Field name and their significance.
Malayala Vimarsam, University of Calicut, Calicut, 1989.
26. Mannum Manushyanum Keralathil : A study based on the PhD thesis "A study of place names in Calicut District" Malayala Sahitya Vimarhsam, University of Calicut 1990.
27. A monograph on the Heritage of Calicut with Historical geography Map : Department of Tourism development· Government of Kerala, Calicut. MONOGRAPH (under publication Mathrubhoomi publication 2007)
28. Chronology of Zamorins of Calicut - reconstructed (Theepetta Samoothirimar) : Paper based on archival materials of Zamorins Palace rediscovered by the author. Malayala Vimarsham, Department of Malayalam, University of Calicut 1985, P.P. 118-129.
29. A review of the Zamorins Palace records (Kolikkodan Grandhavari): Bhash Saahiti, Department of Malayalam, University of Kerala, 1985, PP. 49-56.
30. Haidarali Kshetrangal Takartatentinu? : An enquiry based on a historical manuscript discovered. Samghatana, GCTO Souvenir, Tellicherry, 1984.
31 Kozhikkodinte Charithram : Details of new enquiries taken up. Souvenir, Vinoda sanchara Varacharanam, Govt. of Kerala, Calicut, 1986.
32. Nadakkaate Pooya Oru Koodikkaazcha : Paper on Guruvayoor Satyagraham. Kalakaumudi, Trivandrum, June 12,1983.
33. Kooriyaalin Coottile ulsavannal : Details of the earliest Mamakam-record re-discovered by the author. Pooram Souvenir, Angadippuram 1981.
34. Kadamkadthayaya oru vamsa charithram : A new record on Zamorins Traditional history. Vijana Kairali, Kerala Bhasha institute, Trivandrum, 1979, PP. 613-621.
35. Kozhikodan Grandhavariyile Pattathana rekhakal: Original records of Pattathanam-First publication of the records. Sahithya Lokam - Sahithya Acadany, Trichur 1978.
36. Manmaranja Kovilakangalum teepetta samuthirimarum
Identification of early palaces and re-construction of Zamorins Chronology. AKGCT Journal Sangam, 1984.
37. Samuthiri Bharanarambham : An enquiry of Zamorin's origin based on the newly collected Chinese records and Zamorins archival materials. Special number - Samghatana, 1984.
38. An indegenious record on Haiders attack on Malabar :
Paper Presented in the Indian History Congress Bombay, 1980. Record discovered by the author.
39. Dr. Hermann Gundert, Biography and contribution: A study of Keralapalama. Preface to Keralapalama, Mathrubhoomi, Calicut, 1982 (Second impression of the book after 1882).
40. A review of the 73 palm leaf manuscripts discovered :
ICSSR, New Delhi Research Project Report submitted for the 1st phase of the work in 1983. (MONOGRAPH) Re discovered by the author are included with descriptive Catlogue
42. Vadakkan Pattile Kathapathrangal : A note on the characters like Othenan etc., bases on the Lokanarkavu Granthavari kept in the Department of Malayalam, University of Calicut. Souvenir Calicut College of Commerce, Calicut, 1984.
43. Gundert and Keralolpathi : Newly discovered record of Keralolpathi from Zamorins archives its relation with Gundert's publication in 1844 Spandanam, Calicut, 1987.
44. Guruvayoor Satyagraha :1 A detailed study of causes & the nature of the Sathyagraha on the basis of the Zamorins Guruvayoor Satyagraha files. Kesari weekly, Calicut, 1984.
45. Guruvayoor Satyagraha : 2 A detailed study of causes & the nature of the Sathyagraha on the basis of the Zamorins Guruvayoor Styagraha files. Kesari weekly, Calicut, 1984.
46. Guruvayoor Satyagraha : 3 A detailed study of causes & the nature of the Sathyagraha on the basis of the Zamorins Guruvayoor Satyagraha files. Kesari weekly, Calicut, 1984.
47. Guruvayoor Satyagraha : 4 A detailed study of causes & the nature of the Sathyagraha on the basis of the Zamorins Guruvayoor Satyagraha files. Kesari weekly, Calicut, 1984 (Monograph)
50. Pattattaanam: A description. Kesari, Calicut, 1987.
51. Mathaparivarthanam : A record on Mathaparivarthanam dated 1933. A note on the record.
52. Kozhikkotte panamitapaatu: A study of Zamorins mint at Calicut. (15th & 16th Centuries) Big bazaar and Puthiyangadi at calicut. Souvenir, Urban bank, Calicut 1990.
53. Guruvayur: kunnalakkonum Kuruvayur Vattavum: A study of the evolution of Guruvayur temple as a centre of strategic importance of Zamorins of Calicut. Mathru Bhoomi, Guruvayur special, Calicut, 1992.
54. Kunnalakkonum Kunjalimaarum: A study on the basis of a rare manuscript related to Kunjalis of Calicut. The record gives details of the award of title Kunjali Marakkar in AD 1667. Seminar of Indian Navy at calicut, 1993.
55. The evolution of the Port city at Calicut and new developments: Town planning of the early calicut city. Paper presented in the conference held at Calicut during the 1 oath birth anniversary of the Zamorins of calicut, 1993.
56. Bharana Bhasha Malayalathil: A series of original letters of correspondance between zamorins & Govt. of Madras province during 18th and 19th Centuries, Kumkumam weekly, Quilon, 1989, Kshetrasakti Masika, Calicut, January 1994.
57. Relevance of Historical works of Herman Gundert. (Published in English & German): A study of Gunderts historical works Presented in the Gundert conference at Stutguart, Germany, 1993. (Monograph)
58. Hinduism in Kerala. (Published in English & German):
Historical analysis. Presented in the Gundert conference at Stutguart, Germany, 1993.

59 Reinterpretation of History of Malayala Sahitya Charitram. Malayala Vimarsam University of Calicut, Calicut, 1994.(Monograph
60. Kerala Charithra Padanathile Mahadurantham : An exhaustive survey on the archaeological and archival materials being damaged. Samskara Keralam, Government of Kerala, Trivandrum, 1995.
61. Venganatu Swaroopam - Its heritage - 1 : Detailed discussion of the feudatory on the banks of Bharathapuzha in medieval period First Historicallnvestigation.1996.
62. Venganatu Swaroopam - Its heritage - 2 : Detailed discussion of the feudatory on the banks of Bharathapuzha in medieval period. Calicut,1996.
63. Venganatu Swaroopam - Its heritage - 3 : Detailed discussion of the feudatory on the banks of Bharathapuzha in medieval period. Under publication report in The Hindu, 1996. 1, 2 and 3 - Monograph ( Under publication .Malabar Padanangal -State institute of Languages Trivandrum)
64. Disintegration of Capital city of Zamorins of Calicut ­ (Paper 1998)
65. Vilwamangalam: Identification of the birth place of the great Sanskrit Poet who lived in the Thavanur Village on the banks of Bharathapuzha. (Under publication) First Investigation .1996.
66 Nilayute paitrukam (The legacy of Nila) : A project report to conduct researches on the Legacy of Nila under the Dept. of Malayalam, SNGS College Pattambi 17-3-1995 SNGS College Magazine, Pattambi, 1994-95. First Research Programme based on HABITAT Studies and Nila River Valley.

67. Adivalluvanatu: Origin and evolution of Valluvanatu - a medieval feudatory on the banks of Nila. S.N.G.S. college magazine 1995. First Investigation.
68. Puthiyangadi: The market area in 15th Century. Introductory to at Calicut area Directory of Calicut Corporation 1997.
69. A note on place and date. of Vascode Gama's disembrkmentl - Based on Codex Brati Slavnsis, University of Prague. First note on the problem in Malayalam.
70. Notes on Mamankam - Calicut Etc. - Vijnanakosam, DC Books Kottayam 1990.
71. Zamorins and South Malabar - A lecture, Seminar on Sree Krishnapuram, Chettur Sankaran Nair Trust, Pattambi, Feb 1997.
72. Habitat of Nila - A paper on Nila Valley, National Seminar on Kerala Culture SNGS College, Pattambi, Feb 1997.
73. Investiture Ceremonies under the Zamorins of Calicut ­Original record, in Appendix I Indias naval traditions ed: Dr. K.K.N. Kurup. P 66-71, 90-92 Northern Book Centre New Delhi 1997(See the list –Legacy of NILA Project).
74. Kunjali Marakkar IVh : A new Historical record which threw light on the problem of Kunjali and Zamorins feud. Mathru Bhoomi Week end, Calicut, Feb. 1995.
75. A note on Tharakkal Family - Zamorins official who administered Nedunganad: Mathrubhoomi daily 1994.
76. Original record of The first report made to a daily at Kottayam 1877 AD: Madhyamam, March 1995. Seems to be the 1st News report sent to a News Paper by its reporter in original
77. Thirunavay: A toponymical analysis, All India place name society conference, Thanjavoor, 1997.
78. Mohiniyattam: Working paper 1997.

79. Onam: Some historical problems, S.N.G.S College Pattambi, 1996.
80. MamanKam: Original records presented in a conference at Thirunavay,' the place were Mamankam was conducted in the medieval period. Seminar on Thirunavay 1997, Navamukunda H.S, Thirunavay.
81. The Relevance of Hermann Gunderts Historical works:
Dr. Herman Gunderts and Malayalam language edt. Albercht Frenz, Dr. Scaria Zacharia Centre for Kerala studies, Changanassery, 1993.
82. The Medieval City complex of Calicut : Proceedings of the national convention on Vastu Vidya, Calicut, 1995; Malabar edt. Mgs. Narayanan1994.
83. Zamorins history - A traditional record written in palm leaves. Zamoothiri Charithrathilae Kana purangal, Vallathole Educational Trust, Sukapuram 1987.
84. Mappila Rebellion : Critical evaluation based on zamorins files. samoothiri Charithrathilae Kana purangal, Vallathole Educational Trust, Sukapuram 1987.
85Haiders attack on Malabar - An ideganous record ­Discovered by the Author - "Vellayute Caritram". samoothiri Charithrathilae Kana purangal, Vallathole Educational Trust, Sukapuram 1987.
86. Pattattaanam - Annual Celebration conducted by the zamorins - with original records. samoothiri Charithrathilae Kanapurangal, Vallathole Educational Trust, Sukapuram 1987. (Monograph)
87. Mamankam - The earliest available discription of this festival discovered by the author. samoothiri Charitharthile Kanapurangal, Vallathole Educational Trust, Sukapuram 1987.
88. An introduction to the rediscovered Kozhikkodan Grandhavaris - re-discovery by the author. samoothiri Charithrathile Kanapurangal, Vallathole Educational Trust, Sukapuram 1987.
Archaeology and Cultural history
89. Nediyiruppu - The ancestoral village of Zamoris of Calicut; Toponymical, Historical and Archaeological investigations. National Seminar on Kerala Culture AKG Centre TVm. 1994 Report.
90. KodungaJ/or - A survey of toponymical archaeological and archival sources. Identification of Dutch Forts in collaboration with Dutch atchitechs 1995.
91. Vayanattilninoru Velicham : A survey report on more than 60 archaeological sites in Wynad. Co-operative Magazine, Tirur, 1987.
92. Tomari: A new pre-historic site of Edakkal series, New discovery of the site called 'Tovari'. Reported in Indian Express1987,Kerala kaumudi1987,1st Drawingsof Tovri Rock cut cave from the diary pages
93. A Survey of Archaeological sites in Wayanad: Importance of Edakkal and Tovari. Work done on the basis of the request of Wayanad District Collector in December 1986.
94. Fortress of Tippu at Feroke : Identification of Tippu sultans fort at Feroke: Analysis of its structure and strategic importance. Reported in various dailies and Deccan Herald, 1990.
95. Ramagiri Kotta - Identification of Tippu Sulthan's Fort at Pattambi 1996.
96. lIIikkal family - Identification of on aristocratic family of 15th century at Calicut. 1971.
Papers on Indian Aesthetics
97. Kavisikshayute Kathal : An article an the concept of Training of poet in Indian aesthetics, Iswaranum iicharanu, 1983.
98. Metaphorinepparri chila chintakal : A comparative study of the concept of Metaphor and Rupaka in aesthetics:
Iswaranum iichaaranum, 1993.
99. Leelathilakam: Original manuscript of p.v. Krishna Variar, Kottakkal. A note on the first translation to Malayalan by Krishna Variar. GCTO Souvenir, 1982.
100. Alankara Sastravum Kriyakalpavum: The interpretation of terms Kriya Kalpa and Alamkara Sastra - new light on the topic. Vijnana Kairali June, 1973.
101Pourasthya kaavya mimaamsayum ithara sasthrangalum:
Eastern aesthetics and allied sastras. Vijnana Kairali, July, 1973.
102. Auchitya Sidhanta : A study on the theory of Auchitya in Alamkara Sastra. Vijnana Kairali Sept, 1973.
103. Anouchitya drute : A study. on the theory of Auchitya In Alamkara Sastra. Vijnana Kairali Sept, 1973.
104. Kuntakanum kuttaru : a discussion on the Auchitya concept of later theoreticians, Kumtaka etc. Vijnana Kairali October, 1973.
105. Kshemendra : A study of Kshemendra, his life, works, study on his theory on Auchitya, Kavikantabaranam, (Training of poets) Suvruttathilakam etc. with Malayalam translation of texts. Vijnana Kairali, 1980.
106. Saahityamennal : The meaning of the word 'Saahityam' according to Poeticians. Grandh Lokam, July, 1969, Trivandrum.
107. Naatyavum kavyam thanne : A note on the terms Natyam and Kavyam. Grandhalokam August 1969.
108. Vruthavum thalavum oru punarvichindhanam : A study of the basic principles of Basha Vrithamanjari. Introduction to the vrithamanari (edited) Touring book stall, Calicut 1984.
109. Bhasha booshanam : An introductory to the Bhasha Booshanam giving the history of eastern aesthetics. TBS, Calicut: 1984.
Reserarch oriented papers on literature
110. Iswaranum iicharanam : A Paper on folklore studies in India, with special reference to folk lore studies in Kerala. Desabimani weekly, 1978.
111. Nampoothiri enna kathapathram : A study of Nampoothiri Bhalitham. Introduction to the collection of nampoothiri Bhalitham by poet Kunjunni - NBS, 1982.
112. Parridam pukazhum indra jalikan : Biography of professor valakunnam Nampoothiri, the famous magician of Kerala. lived on the banks of Nila. Mathrubhumi, December, 1978.
113. Jala vidya murthi : An interview with Professor Vazakunnam on Magic or jalavidya, Kalakaumudi, 1983.
114. Dr. K.N. Ezhuthachan : A Biographical note: Kalakaumudi TVM 1981.
115. Dr. K.N. Ezhuthachan : His contribution to researches In Kerala Culture: Deshabhimani, Calicut, 1981.
116. Acharangalude Kollakotukal : A comparative study of Muslim and Hindu customs and manners. Madhyamam Special, Calicut, 1990.
117. Uppu: A study of Folk belief (5 articles),and stories related to importance of salt. Deshabhimani, November, December, 1981.
118. Tavala puranam : Folk belief, A study, Balarama, Kottayam.Frog stories

119. Laksha Dveepile kathaganangal : A study of Folk songs: in Lakshadeep Islands Samgatana GCTO Annual 1982.
120. Sangeetha kala : Articles on basic principles of Raaga, Taala, Aalaapana etc. in Karnatic Classical Music (5 Articles). Balarama, 1979 March to July.
121. Venu - Flute: A study of Classical Musical instrument - its peculiarities and structural development·: Balarama Kottayam (4 articles) Talk on Flute in AIR on International music day in AIR.) 1980.
122. Vritha Silpam and Dravidian metres: An introductory study to Vrithasilpam of Kuttikrishna Marar. New disciplines for identifying Dravidian metres, are discussed based lazed 'an treatize an Rhetories or on Vritha. Presented in the seminar conducted by Kerala Saahitya Samithi, Mavoor, 1980, Introduction to vrithamanjari of A R Raja Raja Varma (edited) TBS Calicut 1984.
123. Krishnappaattinte Veerukal : Historical back background of the classic of Malayalam Krishnagatha written in 15th cAD(paper presented in conference at thumeham paramp, 1979)
124. Krishnappaatthinnakapporul : Structural analysis of krishnagatha, Arthantharangal, 1993.
125. Kaatalulla Katha : A comparative analysis of the themes of Krishnagatha and Bhagavatha in Sanskrit Arthantarangal 1993.
126. Naalumarumatunna Chakku : Analysis of the Ezhuthachans works of 16th cAD Arthanlavalngal, Central co operative store, Univercity of Calicut, 1993
127. Yuddha Samkirtanangal : Historical analysis of the evolution of classical temple arts, Kathakali, Krishnattom and their lieteracy texts Attakkatha and Krishnagatha Arthantarangal, 1993.
128. Vailoppilliyute pullum Kulakkoliyum : Analysis of some poems of Vailoppilli, the famous Malayalam poet. Arthantarangal, 1993.(presented in japasya conference,1980)
129 Kannil kiTannu viriyunna pookkal Poems of Vailoppilli Arthantharangal 1993
130 Munnum Kooti Murukkiya Kavitha Critical analysis of poems ofVyloppilli(Arthantharangal .1993Paper presented in THAPASYA conference in 1980)
131. Unnikkannanum pothum : Analysis of a few poems of NN Kakkad, Arthantarangal, 1993.
132. Malayalathile Moonnam Cheri gadyam : Evolution of Malayalam prose Iswaranum iicharanum, Calicut 1983.
133. Orrayan: A study of the drama written by Kavalam Narayana Panickar, Calicut University Co-operative society, 1982.
134. Krishnagathayude upadangal : A study of gatha metres, contribution of Krishnagatha to Malayalam literature and language. A structural and thematic analysis of Krishnagatha and its influence on Malayalam literay world. Paper presented in the Thunchan symposium conducted at Tunchan Parampu, Thiroor by All India Radio, Calicut 1979.
135. Kutiyolikkalum Kanniirpaatavum : A study of thematic concept and ideologies of Vailoppilli. Paper presented in the Seminar conducted by Tapasya, a literary society at Calicut, 1978.
136. Karinirinte kavi : A study of. literary merits of poems written by Akkittam. Kolaya, Calicut 1976.
137. Swanthamayoru poonthooppu : Instroductory study to the collection of poems of Katavanadu Kuttikrishnan. The book won Kerala Sahitya Academic award in 1985.
138. Introduction to drama written by Puliyoor Raveendran :
N.B.S. Kottayam 1980.
139. Introduction to the poem's of Mundyadi Damodharan :
N.B.S. Kottayam 1980.
140. Pithamahan - Poymukhannalute Rajavu: A structural study of the novel written by V.K.N. in Malayalam Bhashapposhini monthly, Kottayam, February 1980.
141. Kaimosam vanna Soundaryabodham : A study of Alamakaras used in Sangham poetry of 1 sl and 2nd century A.D. Deshabhimani weekly, Calicut, 1976.
142. Assan - Kaviyumpersonalittiyum : A study of the Drama Vicitravijayam written by Kumaranassan. Pragna Netram, Trivandrum,1980.
143. Malayala Kavithayi/e Premasamkalpangal : A study of Erotic concept in early Manipravalam Literature in Malayalam. Government Arts and Science College Magazine, Calicut 1970.
144. Hasasahityam in Malayalam Literature, S.B.College Magazine, Changanacherry, 1968.
145. Kavyaswadanam : A note on sahrudaya concept in Alamkarasastra. KSU Sovenier, Calicut 1972.
146. Malayalam prose: A study based on the newly discovered Grandhavaris. Zamoothiri Charithrathile Kana purangal, Vallathole Educational Trust, Sukapuram 1987.
Published Books Translations Edited works etc.,
1. Chandala Bhikshuki : Introductory study with notes. A structural analysis of the famous poem Chandala Bhikshumki written by Kumaran Asan. N.B.S. Kottayam 1983.
2. Bhasha Bhooshanam of A.R Raja Rajavarma : (poetics; Alankara sastra) Edited with introductory and detailed notes, T.B.S Calicut 1984.
3. Vrithamanjari of A.R Raja rajavarma : Edited with introductory and detailed notes T.B.S Calicut 1984.
4. Chandala Bhikshuki of Kumaranasan : Edited with Structural study of the work with detailed notes, the relation between this and Vajrasoochi of a classical writer Aswaghesha is pointed out for the first time in Malayalam. National Publications, Caclicut,1987.
5. Rukminee Swayamvaram, Krishnagatha : ( A medieval Malayalam classic) Edt. With Introduction and notes, Dakshina Publication, Edapal, 1986 Deline Publication, Calicut 1972.
6 Kesaveeyam mahakavyam 1 & 2 sargas of K. C. Kesava pillai : .Edt With introduction and notes, ABC Books, Ottapalam 1972,
7. Sthree parvam of Mahabharatha by Ezhuthachan : Edt. with Introduction and notes. Deline Publishers, Calicut 1972, Central Co-operative store, ~niversity of Calicut 1993.
8. Karnaparvam of Maha Bharatha by Ezhuthachan : Edt.
With Introduction and notes. Central Co-operative store, University of Calicut 1995,
9. Karuna by Kumaranasan : Edt. With Introduction and notes.
Central Co-operative store, University of Calicut 1995,

10Samutiri Charithrathi/e Kaannappurangal : (A collection of 10 research papers) Vallathole Eductional Trust, Sukapuram. 1987. Won the KDamodharan State Award of 1989,(un seen pages of Zamorins history)
11 Arthantharangal: A collection of 12 research papers, Central Co-operative society University of Calicut 1993.
12 Iswaranum eicharanum : A collection of 12 research papers.
TBS Publications Calicut 1982.
13 Kerala Samskaram: Akavum Puramvum . central co-op store, University of Calicut 2003. Reli'inter pretation of Kerala culture.
14 Kerala Samskaram: Central Co-op store, University of Calicut 2004. Interpretation of Kerala culture, 15 Vaniyamkulam Vijnaniiyam Vllage history Publishers KCHR,T 2001.All works are done by Dr n m nampoothiri and pk sivadas.But not PROPERLY acknowledged by the KCHR(See details in NILA Studies)
It is the PIONEERING work of this type in INDIA.Study of village culture is Previously analysed by n m nampoothiri from 1975 based on Toponymy .Later it was studied under LEGACY OF NILA A clear example of PLAGEARISM in Historical research. The KCHR enterd in to the picture only in 1999-2000. When it was the State Gazetteers Department,Iwas requested to submit a report on the methodological aspects of village history studies .The request was from The Editor Dr. P. J. Cheriyan This department was transformed to KCHR and the former Editor Dr,Cheriyan became the Director of the KCHR.He has not mentioned about the report collected from me in the book. As per his request I have submitted an introduction to the work done by me.The Council has not included it in the Book I brought it into the notice of the Researchers in 2006 through Mathrubhoomi Weekly. Later in a History conference at Ernakulam conducted by D.C Books Kottayam Dr K.N. Panicker,the chairman KCHR, endorsed my statements and announced that the Pioneering work in this manner was done by me.

16 Malayalante Valiyatayalangal; (Published under UGC Project.Released by Dr K P Mohanan DCDCof University of Calicut 2002)(See Reports and photos)
17 Dharmakathakal: Purana stories from Mahabharatha for Adult Education, Kerala Grandha Saalasangam, Trivandrum 1980.
18 Selected stories of Sherlock Holms: (First transalation into Malayalam World famous detective stories of Conan doyle. N.B.S Kottayam 1980, Mathrubhoomi 2004.
19 Stories of different, Indian States - Bihar, Bengal, Assam, Lahoul, Punjab, Kasmir, Nagaland, Himachal pradesh :
Folk stories retold '(more than 200 stories). Kalakaumudi weekly, Trivandrum from 1980 onwards; Mathrubhoomi Calicut, 1989;2004,
20 Stories of Mahabharatha - retold: Purana stories-for Children's (25 stories Children's literature). Veekshanam weekly, 1977 January to May,
21 Aesop stories: Western Folk stories - retold - (15 stories Children's literature) Kumkumam weekly, 1974.
22 Jataka stories: Translated and retold eighty Jataka stories of Budha jathaka (children's literature) Mathrubhumi, 1974, 75, 76; Mathrubhoomi, Calicut 1990, 2004.
23 Folk stories of the world in 36 Volumes : A scheme approved by Dakashina Publishers, Sukapuram. 4 volumes are published. Nearly 1000 Folk stories around the world have been translated and retold - (Under publicationTwo volumes are published).
24 Loka nadodi Kathakal : A collections of folk stories of India (108 stories) Mathrubhoomi Calicut 1989, 2004
25 Macbeth (William Shakespeare) : Translati'on, National Publications, Calicut 1990 .
26 Volumes of Zamorins Palace Records: Vallathole Vidya peed om Sukapuram (Approved for publication 2004.Fifteen volumes are being published .SERIES EDITOR DrN. M. nampoothiri)
27 A Critical study of the Poems of N.N. Kakkd: Cultural Dept, Govt. of Kerala, Trivandrum (Approved for publication) 2004.
28. A Study of place names in the Cultural District Phd Dissertation (Approved for publication - University Publication Department, Calicut university) .Abook under the title HERITAGE OF CALICUTisunderthepublicationofMathrubhoomipublicationsin2006)
29 Vellayude Charithram : The first literary prose writing in Malayalam Original record with notes Vallathole Vidya peedom Sukapuram published - 2000.
(See Report and related works).
(see Books and Other Major works.)

Book Reviews
Collection of Poems of P. Narayana kurup, Deshahimani, August 1984 Kavithakal v;;ntum, Mathrubhoomi Weekly, June 1981. Kannikkoytu, Mathrubhoomi Weekly, May 1976. Palipoya paribhasha, Deshabhimani, December 1982. Tapsyaute abhavam, Mathrubhoomi, July 1976. Nirvahanathile albhutarasm, Mathrubhoomi, November 1976 Visuddhiyute naadam, eshabhimani, July 1976. Urumpupattile kurumpanana, Deshabhimani, 1983. Vaiiteettila gaveseshanangal,
Mathrubhoomi, Jan 1983. Poem's of v.a.k., Mathrubhoomi, April 1984. Nirupanathinum venam swathantryam, Mathrubhoomi, Nov 1981. Kavitayum performing artum, Mathrubhoomi, Jan 1985.(Many more are to be added )
INDEX
Index to the thesis on kulasekaras of mahodayapuram( Perumals of kerala} by Dr. M.G.S.Narayanan : Total words in the index over 5000 (Historical and Cultural)

MAPS
1. Maps on Geography, Topography and Agriculture of Malabar (Included in the translation of Malabar Manual of William Logan) Malayalam, Mathruboomi publication, Calicut.
2. SeeMAPS:prepared in the study of calicut .See positive comments by the Examniers 1987 Historical Geography Maps of Calicut City, and Calicut Taluk. Total 90 Original Maps were prepared. Maps prepared for administrative purposes never serve the historical, cultural or any studies related to human activities. Thus” MAPS” are to be prepared to study JANAPADACHARITRAM. See charts frequency tables etc.See rough maps in each study.DISTRIBUTION maps are to be prepared in each step. See A study of place names in calicut district for Map study. This also is a pioneering methodological change introduced by N.M.Nampoothiri.See chapter wise list of calicut study .See settlement patterns in maps and the “Divide and rule “system of” BRITISH ADMINISTRATION ” at grass root level.
3.Village history maps of Vaniamkulam, Kootanadu, Poyilam , Kuutallur,Perumpatappu,Ponnani,VayyavinaaTu,Pottur,Udayamperoor,
Spoken Word Section of AIR Calicut
Participated in the spoken word programmes of All India Radio on different subjects such as contributions of ulloor, Appan tampuran,Inclusive of book review etc) latest spoken word programme was on Narayaneeyam in 2004AIR, Trichur.(Nearly 100 Spoken word programmes in AIR during1979-1999)
Membership In Research Societies Etc
1. Collaborator, International Centre of Onomastic Studies, Belgium (Ref. ONOMA Vo1.24, 1980)
2. Audition Committee member for classical Music, All India Radio, Caclicut (During the Period 1980 to 1984).
3. Project Director for Editing and Publishing the Zamorins palace records sponsored by Indian Council of Social Science Research, New Delhi.
4. Executive Committee member, place names society of India, 1978 - 1990. Organised The 1st Chapter of PNSOI( See approval letter) in KERALA.Headquarters is Vallathol Vidyapeedom Sukapuram
5. Regional Committee Member - State archival Department, Government of Kerala. Order No. GO(MS) 298/86/Hdn. Dated 27-11-1986. By thesecretary, Higher Education, Trivandrum.
6. Secretary, Place name society of India (Kerala Unit)
7. Member Epigraphical society of India Mysore.
8. Governing Council member, Vallathol Educational Trust, Edapa11978.
9. Member, Navakerala Publication Co-operative society, Calicut 1973.
10. Executive member and joint secretary, Thodayam, Kathakali Club, Calicut-1990.
11. Secretary Association of guardians and Teachers - Govt. Arts & Science College, Calicut- 1981 - 1983.
12. Member Secretary, Adult Education Programme, Govt. Arts and Science College, Calicut (1980-83)
13. Member, Vilwamangalam Smaraka'Samiti, Thavanur-1995.
14. Treasurer, Folk lore Fellows of Malabar, Payyannur (1980­1984)
15. General Secretary, Erkara Smaraka Samiti (1989-93)
16. A K G C T Academic committee secretary (Northern region1989-1992)
17. Convenor publication committee Vallathole Education Trust A Research Society Edappal1987-1994).
18. Member Editorial board MALABAR, Department of Tourism Government of Kerala, Calicut 1993.
19. Member Voluntary Technical Committee Peoples Planning Programme of Planning Board Govt. of Kerala (Palakkad District)
20. Vice-Chairman Peoples Planning Programme Cultural Wing
Planning Board Govt. of Kerala (Palakkad District)
21. Member, Board of Studies, Calicut University (UG) 1989-1992
22. Member, Faculty, Calicut University, 1989-1992.
23. Member PG Board of studies University of Calicut 1996.-1998
24. Member board of Question paper setters, Kerala Public Service Commission 1995.
25. Member board of Examiners, Kerala Public Service
Commission 1992.
26. Chairman PhD valuation board, University of Kerala 1995.
27. Chairman Question paper board University of Kerala 1996.
28. Member, Editorial Board, Kerala State Gazetteers for Preparing Kerala History 1987.
29. Member Kerala Council of Historical Research : Trichur ­2003.
Guide ship in research
Approved research guide University of Calicut - Ten Research Scholars are Working. Five scholars completed Preliminary and has awarded PhD. Approved research guide Kerala Sahitya Academy - Two Research Scholars are Working.Member of board of studies,Member Academic council andFaculty,University of CALICUT KERALA.
Awards, Titles, Publication grants etc
1. K. Damodaran Trust Award 1987. (State level)
2. Title "Gaveshana Vibhooshanam" Awarded by Zamorins of Calicut 1989.
3. Publication grant for book writing scheme Central Sahitya Academy, New Delhi 1997.
4. Travel Grant to visit Cultural Centres Central Sahitya Academy New Delhi 1997.
PART-II JANAPADA CHARITRA PADHANAM( Dicision 17-3-1995See Preamble of The project The Legacy of Nila
1Work related to peoples plannina programme, Govt. of Kerala :- A Proiect proposed alonq with UGC project. ( This is the 1st project of its kind taken up as a institutional one submitted to the Govt of Kerala.It is an ambitious work to produce a comprehensive Settlement studies or comprehensive study of Kerala village culture. It is intended to do the work as segmental studies envisaged and implemented in Vaniyamkulam village study. Vaniyamkulam Study started in 1997.As noted earlier a report to study village culture was submitted to the authorities of gazetteers as a suggestion to study kerala villages .The basic intention was to work inthe model of Araambrom Village study. However, it was not continued by the concerned Institution/Department )
Copy of letter from Dr. N.M. Namboothiri, Head of Department, Oriental Research Centre, Department of Malayalam, Sree Nilakanta Government Sanskrit College, Pattambi, addressed to the Minister, LAD dated 19-12-1996.
Respected Sir,
Sub:- Janakiyasutrana Programme-Local data Collection of Panchayaths - Centralization, preservation computerization and scientific study of data by Oriental Research Centre, Malayalam, Government Sanskrit College, Pattambi - proposal for request regarding.
We request you to kindly consider our request and issue favorable orders regarding the subject under reference.
We understand that the Government of Kerala has taken up the collection of source materials of local history from every Village of Kerala, under the Janakiyasutrana programme.
These source materials are of immense value to study each and very aspect of village history since these are the first hand and primary information collected from the grass root level local informants. When these materials are centralised, consolidated and analysed on inter disciplinary lines, it will help to understand the social, economical, political and cultural evolution of Kerala in its totality.
At present there is no other way to collect these materials in total by any other machinery. Hence this request is submitted to you for favorable orders.
We are building up a Centre for Oriental Research and Computer studies in our institution. The Department of Malayalam has taken up initiative to study a thrust area as a part of Area study and theme is the Legacy of Nila (Bharathapuzha). We are engaged in rigorous academic research on inter disciplinary lines. The centre has its own building with a Seminar hall, Reference and Manuscript Committee, which are the basic necessities of an Advanced Research Centre.
Our College is one among the seven Centres of Excellence approved by the Kerala Government and the Department of Malayalam is an approved centre of Research by the University of Calicut, and UGC and receiving UGC grant as PG assistance.
At present nearly 12 research scholars are working, in humanities in this Institution and nearly 15 teachers have Ph.D and M.Phil research degrees The General Co-ordinator of the Oriental Research Centre Malayalam has done more than 29 years of research (late) on local history under the famous scholar Dr.K.N.Ezhuthachan and has obtained Ph.D. on Cultural History of Calicut.
In this context, we submit the following for your kind consideration and favourable orders.
1. Kindly issue orders to all Panchayats, Village Offices and Janakiyastrana Samithis, to forward us copies of the basic data collected from the local informants.
2. A copy of the local history written by them (Published or unpublished)
3. The details of regarding their. village, its location, the present situations and a copy of their village map noting the important places.
4.The field name ( ) of their village with local interpretation, if possible.
If we get these source materials the centre proposes to implement the following system for rigorous study of them.
1. Toponomical and other studies bases on it.
2. Inter disciplinary studies of local history and later study of Kerala history and culture bases on field work.
3. The materials will be preserved in our manuscript library, which will be accessible to all bonafide research scholars, as per Government Rules.
4. The results will be published in our Computerised journal planned under the title (Vinjana chintamani)
Hence we once again request you, Sir, to consider our needs favourably and issue necessary orders.
A copy of the preamble of our research centre is enclosed for favour of information.
Thanking you,
Dr. N.M. Namboodiri,
Head of Department.
Endt. on In-2212/97/ dated 5-2-1997
Copy communicated all Deputy Director of Panchayats. They are directed to give necessary direction to all Grama Panchayats under your jurisdictions to make available the copy of the basis data to the Research Centre as they requested.
Copy to stock file and spare.
Sd/-
For Director of Panchayats Office of the Director of Panchayats,Thiruvananthapuram. (This is the pioneering project related to the Major Research project "Cultural geography and Habitat of Bharathappula river " sponsored by UGC A case study in this basis was done at Vaniyamkulam Panchayath and published Vaniyamkulam Gazetters in2003).
2. REPORT OF Dr. KV RAMESH, DIRECTOR EPIGRAPHY), MYSORE AS EXAMINER OF THE THESIS ENTITLED 'A STUDY OF PLACE NAMES IN THE CALICUT DISTRICT BADAGARA, QUILANDY, SOUTH WAYNAD AND KOZHIKODE TALUKS.
In the interest of the growth of the fast emerging discipline of place Name Studies the present thesis of Shri. N. Madhavan Nampoothiri should become a model and trend setter from the point of view of the quality of the work though not its volume. If at all, Shri. Nampoothiri can be faulted only for being rather too ambitious in the treatment of the subject chosen by him for his research. Nonetheless, the vary fact that this is the first thesis of its kind, taking at once due cognizance of topography and geography of a given region, the growth of settlements therein, the growth of urbanization and trade, justifies to a great extent the thousand and odd pages into which the treatment has run.

The methodology adopted by Shri. Nampoothiri leaves nothing to be desired; the thoroughness with which he has dealt with different socio-economic andcultural as well as religious and political aspects in the naming of places, in the changes undergone by them, semantic or otherwise, the motivatiQn behind the naming of places and fields, the historical information which could be culled out from the objective study of the historical forms as well as current forms of these toponymys lend to this stupendous research work a high degree of authenticity, meaning and utility. In particular, his indepth study of the city of Calicut as a capital, as a port, as a commercial centre to its many-sided importance makes for fascinating study. For the first time the researcher has also heavily' depended upon maps for gaining support for many of his arguments. In spite of the fact that the maps need to be prepared and presented on more accurate scales and scientific lines, the very fact that the researcher has refreshingly displayed so much map­consciousness in toponymical study needs to be greatly appreciated.
It is gratifying to note that in the matter of deriving the etymology of place names the researcher has not been carried away by the superficial etymology of the names as they are current today but has, on the other hand, resorted to historical as well as comparative means, drawing information, wherever necessary, from Prakrit, Sanskrit, Tamil and the neighbouring Tulu dialect. I have no hesitation in recommending that the thesis be awarded the Ph.D. Degree with distinction. The thesis deserves to be published but in an abridged form which could be easily done by eliminating certain repetitions and also by reducing the number of examples to the necessary minimum.
I once again recommend that the Thesis be awarded. the Doctorate degree with distinction ..
Sd/-
Examiner .
(KV RAMESH)



Prof Y.Subbarayalu, Dept. of Epigraphy,
Tamil University,Thanjavur 613 005.
25-1-1989
REPORT on EVALUATION OF PH. D. THESIS
"A Study of Place Names in the Calicut District (Badagara, Quilandy, South Vayanad and Kozhikode Taluks"
by
Sri. N. Madhavan Nampoothiri, (Professor and Head of the Dept. of Malayalam, Govt. Arts and Science Evening College, Calicut-18)
is recommended for the award of the Ph.D. deqree in Malayalam of the University of Calicut.
The above thesis is a very ambitious and sincere attempt to collect, analyze and interpret about 58,000 field names from Kozhikode taluk with a view to reconstruct the history of the settlement pattern and cultural tradition of the are. The data has been collected from 182 revenue villages of the taluk by undertaking intensive field work and also from a variety of published and unpublished records of the Zamorins's palace kept in the Regional Archieves at Calicut and from the revenue records right from the early 19th century. The author has to be congratulated for such stupendous marshalling and handling of the toponymic data single-handedly and without using any mechanical gadgets like the computers, etc.
The author is aware of all the previous works in the allied fields and has duly reviewed them all in the introductory chapter. After explaining the methodologies of the previous authors he has explained his own methodology in detail. Leaving the common place generics like parambu and nilam the other generics of the field names are grouped according to the different information they provide. Likewise the specifics are also analyzed. The author has classified his study area into six urban complexes and five village groups on the basis of the place names at the village level and these complexes and groups are used throughout the study for analyzing the field names. The analyzed data are also illustrated by a number of maps (nearly 150) and charts and figures. Besides the body of the discussion which itself is bulky the work has been enriched by the addition of a glossary and a large number of tables of generics for all the urban complexes and village groups.
Many significant findings have been indicated in the study.
And these findings arrived at on the basis of toponymics are found· to be corroborated by the conclusions arrived at on the basis of the revenue records, census reports, etc. The findings regarding the topography, flora and fauna and the resources of the area are quite interesting. For instance, the suggestion that the land utilized for non-agricultural purposes show more increase in urban complexes . than in village groups may be cited (2.8.5). It is rather curious to hear that pepper cultivation is not at all reflected in field names (p. 190).
Chapter III on "growth of settlements" is a significant contribution to archaeological studies. According to the author there are so many toponyms implying the existence of prehistoric sites in Kerala and the author's suggestion that there is a good correlation between these sites and the settlements of tribal population (p. 244f) has to be given serious attention by the archaeologists who study the megalithic culture in south India.
The finding that the ownership of almost all the field names with the generic mannalam is vested in Brahmins is also interesting for the early medieval historians of Kerala.
Chapters IV and V relate to the. process of urbanization.
After discussing the complex features of urbanization of the whole taluk the author goes on to study the growth of the city of Kozhikode as a Rajadhani and port city. Various factors, political, commercial etc., contributed to the growth of this city. It is also pointed out, for the first time, that the planning of the city followed closely the vastusastra prescriptioms. Here the author has undertaken a micro­level study of every nook and corner of the capiral city of the Zamorins, for which he has also used the accounts of many foreign visitors.
So without hesitation the thesis may be recommended for the award of the degree. Of course in view of the vastness of the work, there are bound to be some minor blemishes subject to criticism. It is strongly felt that the author could have restricted his work to a few selected problems only and thereby could have improved still further the organization of his data and arguments. Because of the undue length of the dissertation the findings have not been clarified uniformly. Naturally there are quite a few repetitive and redundant portions here and there. The author could not also check thoroughly the typographical slips which mar a bit the quality of the work. The following suggestions may also be taken into account when the work is published in due course.
4.12.7 The explanation of the activities of natu vis-a-vis Ur is not so convincing. Though Kerala presents some peculiar features of its own in place name some comparison can be made with the data from Tamil Nadu as far as the natu names are concerned.
4.18.8 The place of ceri in relation to ur is not clear.
4.20 & 4.21 These sections do not have much relevance to this chapter.
5.2.1 Velapuram seems to be a mercantile place. This may be compared to the Valapurams mentioned in the inscriptions of the Ayyavole organization in Tamil nadu and Karnataka.
5.13.4 Five generations cannot be assigned four hundred years. At the most they may cover a century and a half.
Generally the maps need improvement. "Aerial maps" are not so helpful.
Sd/-
(Y. Subbarayalu)
4Prof Ramachandra moorthy's Report on the Thesis "A study of place-names in the Calicut District" submitted for the award of ph.D. degree by Sri. N. Madhavan Nampoothiri to the University of Calicut. (Re. D.. No. E.B. V-4/27159/79-Mal-6, dated 6.10.88)
The place-names are essentially the indicators of places.
These indicators are used for naming different places like villages, streets, localities fields, tanks etc. Such names often reflect the culture and heritage of the society apart from physical features of the place. Hence a scientific study of place-names of a given region is bound to reveal very interesting aspects of its history and culture. Of late in our country study of place-names is receiving greater attention of sholars rightly of different disciplines like history, linguistics. Thanks, particularly, to the sincere and untiring efforts' of the place-names society of India. Toponimical researches are also being carried out in different universities by man enthusiastic young research scholars.
Sri, Madhavan Nampoothiri's thesis, "A study of place-
names in the Calicut District" a toponymical survey of the Kozhikode District in general and Kozhikode Taluk in particular. This work aims at throwing new lights on the historical, sociological and cultural tradition of the area under study. For this the author consulted unpublished palm leaf Grandhavar is, Registers, Reports etc., preserved in Zamorin's palace and Regional Archives and also census Reports. He also collected data from various sources by sending questionnaire. Thus he took enough care to collect the primary source materials thoroughly and on scientific lines.
It is very interesting to note that 'instead of living huddled in a street, as seen in states outside KEilrala, Malayalis prefer the privacy of their own fenced compound at a distance from neighbours. These fields vary in area from ten to fifteen acres and each field has its own name. In many cases such fields are again divided into small plots and each plot has its separate name. These units are generally very small and hence the names represent specific nature of land and settlements. So Sri. Nampoothiri has rightly studied the names of these small units also. He paid special attention while selecting specific and generics of the field names. The table given by him (p.39) shows the peculiar characteristics of the field names.
The thesis is divided into five chapters apart from Introduction and Conclusions. In Introduction Sri. Nampoothiri discussed the importance of toponimical studies. Number of earlier works on the subject in different languages are mentioned and the methodology adopted by their authors is also discussed by him in detail. To the earlier work on the subject mentioned by him "A study of, Telugu place-names based on Inscriptions from the earliest to the 13th Century" (Delhi: 1985) may also be added.
The first chapter entitled "Topography and Geography of Kozhikode "contains an elaborate discussion on topography and geography reflected in the field names of the complexes of Kozhikode. The number of generics of each complex and their meaning distribution, and frequencies are also discussed. This discussion leads us to understand the geographical pecularities, topography, natural resources, nature of cultivation etc. The scholar rightly observes that "grography, topography, nature of soil, etc., are clearly reflected in the seceries and even if the specified indicate a man made transformation it does not affect the generics in most cases". (p. 651).
In the Second Chapter taking frequency of place-names into consideration the scholar discussed the resources of the Taluk, viz., paddy other food crops, forest produces and natural resources such as gold, minerals, precious stones, salt, etc., in great detail. It is observed by Sri. Nampoothiri that the study of the field names prove that the general situations of cultivation and agricultural produces and produces of other natural resources and potentials evaluated from both the evidences of toponyms and revenue Assessments go parallel to some extent. The distribution of fauna also is discussed in detail in this chapter. "It is interesting to note that the names of fauna and their distribution are suggestive of the habitat and food material available to the concerned areas". (p. 213).
The 'Growth of Settlements' discussed in the Third Chapter is an important aspect of toponimical studies. Sri. Nampoothiri rightly began the study with the observation that "place-names indicative of megalithic monuments and early tribes will help us to trace the early phases of settlements in the taluk" (p.214). He has listed names indicative of megalithic monuments such as rockcut caves, burial grounds, umbrella stones etc. It is significant to note that archaeologists have excavated a few field names indicating their prehistoric nature. These sites are also listed by the scholar (pp. 215 ff). In addition to these, settlements of aboriginal tribes, occupational classes, etc., are also discussed in this chapter on t.he basis of toponyms. The observations made on the nature of the megalithic and tribal settlements and their locations are very interesting (pp. 244 ff). Further, the toponyms under study reveal that different groups of people settled in the area and that they have their religious centres and areas of activities. Influence of temple complexes, trade exchange systems and administrative units resulted in changes of physical structures of certain settlements, which is also reflected in toponyms.
'Urbanisation and Trade Exchange System in the Taluk' is discussed in the Fourth Chapter. It is noted that south-western half of the Taluk where settlements, religious, commercial and administrative centres are crowded can be identified as Urban area, while the north-eastern half as rural. The same situation is observed by an analytical study of field names also. Further, "some unnoticed patterns of settlements, urbanizations and distribution of specialized centres in the area are also brought to light in this toponimical analysis, which are corroborated by the available observations of other disciplines like history, geography, anth,ropology. Thus the suggestions emerged from the field names are of unique nature" (p 654). The observations made by Sri. Nampoothiri are convincing.
In the Fifth Chapter an excellent attempt is made to reconstruct the medieval city complex of Calicut with the help of toponyms. It has been observed that the toponyms distributed in and around the raiadhani and port area clearly prove the physical and functional structure of a medieval city, laid on the lines of Vastusastra, certain interesting facts are also revealed by the study of pettern of foreign settlements. The distribution of the toponyms also reveal the systematic pattern of the destruction of the raiadhani and the penetration of new administrative centres of the foreigners. A systematic and detailed history of Caclicut is given in this chapter which is based on Place-names, names of streets and other sources like foreigners' accounts, etc.
Important observations are given in the section 'Conclusions' .
Almost all observations are very well supported by numerous maps, of different types, tables, etc. The glossary provided is of immense help.
Undoubtedly Sri. Nampoothiri made an indepth study of the toponyms of Calicut District on new and scientific lines and consequently could arrive at convincing conclusions. His effort is commendable. The numerous tables, maps, etc., given in the thesis not only attest to the pains taken by the author but also support his observations very well.
I have no hesitation in recommending this thesis for the award of the Ph.D degree. The thesis may be published, but while doing so the author may note that the thesis is too voluminous and it is necessary to make it concise. Sd/-
(S.S. Ramachandra Murthy), Reader in Epigraphy, Oriental Research Institute, S,V. University, Tirupathi.

5 Thesis Synopsis(1975-1988)FIRST study of village history
A Study of Place names in the Calicut District
'A study of Place names in the Calicut District' (Badagara, Quilandy, South Wynad and Kozhikode Taluks) is mainly based on field names recorded in the settlement Registers of 1890-1903, prepared by the British revenue officials. Medieval records like ceerikkal accounts of Zamorins of Calicut, and paimashi records of the Mysoreans during the 18th Century are also used as source materials. Important objectives of the work is to study the historical and cultural geography of Calicut. It throws light on the Geographical and topographical peculiarities, natural of soil, resources, Flora, Fauna, ethnographical and ethnological details, archaeological evidences, tribal settlements, commercial and other settlements of occupational groups of people, Brahmin settlements, distribution of temple communities, Foreign Settlements, Settlements of Muslims, Christians, Worship Centers, Trade exchange system, urbanization aspects, structural and functional aspects of hinterland areas, village settlement patterns, Urban Geography of Calicut, Toponymycal reconstruction of Calicut port and capital of the Zamorins of Calicut. It is inter disciplinary in nature and hence various principles and observation are corroborated with available evidences.
The work includes the analysis of more than 57000 field names. Different classification list of names, statistical tables, frequency tables, charts, geometrical figures, sketch maps, Historical Geography maps et. Are. used in the analysis. The introductory chapter chapter - 0 is intended to evaluate the toponymycal studies done in India, till the end of last decade. Most of the work in Indian toponomy have been consulted and their major observation are noted. A Bibliography of such works is also included in this study. It is' found that most of the works try to analyse only some aspects of the subject, studies in toponomy in Kerala is also not an exception. Works done in Kerala was generally based on village names or other place names, and the nature of analysis is not interdisciplinary. The toponyms available in Kerala are of and entirely different nature, compared to toponyms available in other parts of the main land. Each village in Kerala supplies 1500 to 2500 field names, and all of them are recorded in the revenue records etc. Hence, field names collected from early records, when studied an interdisciplinary basis throw light on various cultural and historical aspects of Kerala. For better analysis, the field names collected are grouped into different heads based on different cultural and historical aspects and various concepts lie complexes, groups, isolated units, geographical belts, Urban centers, semi urban centers etc. are made out of it. These principles are explained in the latter part of the Introductory chapter.
In Chapter I, the topographical, geographical and physiographical situation of the area is analysed basing on the suggestions of toponyms. Topographical nature of the land such as elevation, depths, hilly tracts, coastal areas, marshes upper table lands etc. are discussed on the basis of frequency of toponyms and various distribution maps. Fertility of the soil, slope of the land courses of river systems and their names, and a few important toponyms of hydronymic nature etc. are also discussed in this chapter. This Chapter throws light on the general geographical situation reflected in toponyms of the area. The nature discussed are substantiated day other evidence available from other sources.
Chapter II is devoted to analyse the resources of the are reflected in toponyms. The relation of toponyms and the resources available in the area is corroborated by other kinds of evidences. The nature and fertility of the soil for different kinds of agricultural activities are all taken into consideration. Revenue data and production charts supplied by different Governmental authorities are cited to reveal the relation between the toponyms, nature of the land and resources. It is to be mentioned here that the production details collected from toponyms do not represent the actual date of production of different items like natural resources, forest produces or agricultural produces or their potentials, because the frequency and density of a particular toponyms is never related to the actual rate of production. The intention of this analysis is only to note the nature of resources and their relation to the geographical situations, fertility of the soil etc. However the details collected from the generics of field names in the case of rice cultivation seems to be a dependable date for getting the general feature and tendencies of the cultivation. The broadest classification of the production or cultivation in the area into cash crops and paddy, and the general feature of the land and soil noted on the basis of toponyms shows a dependable relation. Indication of natural resources like salt, gold, iron etc. in toponyms of the area and other evidence related to the availability of them in the area also show better results.
In Chapter III, Growth of settlements in the area is discussed. An attempt based on toponyms indicative of pre-historic sites in the area reveals fruitful results. It has been found that most of the field names suggestive of burial grounds proves the existence of umbrella stones and other kinds of pre-historic monuments. An attempt to identify such sites in other taluks of the District, along with the identification of habitational sites in the District is also included in this Chapter. Tables containing these details and corresponding maps are given wherever necessary.
Detailed discussion of distribution of megalithic monuments, aboriginal tribes and low castes ,uuR settlements, physiographical divisions of sang ham period, settlement of occupational classes etc. form the major part of this chapter. Different kinds of burial grounds, aboriginal tribes and low castes, occupational classes etc. reflected in toponyms reveal that no other source material available at present give such a comprehensive knowledge regarding this in the area. Relation between megaliths uuR settlements and tribal settlements are also noted in the analysis.
A discussion related Aryan and Non-Aryan Clements reflected in toponyms is also an integral part of this analysis. It is extremely difficult to identify such elements since no directive principles or data are available from other sources. Hence, Sankritic elements reflected in names has been taken as a principle in identifying Aryan and Non Aryan elements worshipping centers, different kinds of deities worshipped, rituals and ceremonies conducted in the area etc. are discussed on the basis of toponyms. This analysis enables us identify the nature and pattern of the Brahmin settlements, settlements of temple communities and the related concepts like tali, Samuuham, Samudayam, uraalar etc. The naming practices and the settlement areas of Brahmin settlers and temple communities are of great interest. The disintegration of Brahmin Grama settlements is also analysed in this part.
The last part of this chapter deals with the settlement patterns of commercial groups, artisans, Christians, Muslims and foreigners. This general picture in turn, reveal the pressure of settlements indifferent.
Geographical peculiarities, available resources and settlement patterns discussed in the fore-going chapters are inter dependent factors. The pressure of these factors in total has it effects on urbanization in the concerned area. The urbanization process and the suggestions given by the toponyms in this aspects is the subject dealt in Chapter IV. The major deciding factor of urbanization is specializations and hence the specializations of the area suggested by toponyms are analysed in the first part of this chapter. The implication of the terms urban and rural, differentiation of urban and rural, areas differentiated on the basis of specialization, etc. are the major topics of discussion in this chapter.
Highly specialized centers are termed as complexes and six such centers are identified. Apart from this, semi urban centers, storage centers, resting place cntres and rural centers are also identified. They form a hierarchical system of trade exchange centers. A second type of classification of the same centers another hierarchical systems: reveal port and administrative Head quarters, production centers, service centers etc. All the villages in the concerned area fall under any on eof these divisions, Some universal patterns and systems are also seen applicable in the area on the basis of principles of urban geography. Here on the suggestions of the toponyms, the communication system, conveyance facilities, toll centers, break of bulk centers, loading and unloading centers, administrative centers, etc, are all discussed and a total picture of the urban tendencies in the area is brought to light. Different kind of indigenous production, production centers, early industries and the like are also discussed.
This discussion becomes a pert of the analysis of the situation in the hinterland area, a concept of urban Geographical studies. Thus, analysis of the urban tendencies existed in the early villages in the area, intrusion of urban features into the hinterland villages etc, are analysed, It is seen that marutham centers, uur settlements and ceeris formed the early form of village settlement pattern in the area. Gradual penetration of specialization and Aryan tendencies into the marutham -uuR-ceeri unit of village, changed the rural features, projecting the area into the path of urbanization in the District. This in turn points out the necessity of the analysis of village system, settlement of occupational groups, agriculturists and non-occupational groups et. In the grass root level on the basis of toponyms.
The Chapter closes with the discu3sion of interrelation of the hierarchical system of trade exchange activities in the hinterland area and its intra relations. The whole hinterland area is connected to the major complexes and they in turn to the Port City at Calicut.
Before the discussion of port City at Calicut, a few points regarding the Political divisions of the early period, existed in the hinterland area is also noted. The territorial names of the area is studiedl at this point. The exact concept of naatu, and uuR and their inter relation etc. are also noted here.
The first part of Chapter V deals with the urban situations and the structural and functional factors of Calicut as an urban port city. The second part of this Chapter deals the capital of Zamorins of Calicut on toponymical basis. Principles of port geography and other urban Geographical Principles are the basic disciplines taken into consideration in the analysis. Different nuclei, central places, nodal points, centrifugal and centripetal forces, break of bulk centers, thoroughfare business centers, foreign settlements class wise and occupational settlements etc. are analysed in the first part based on the toponyms. Historical geography of the port is thus clearly brought to light. Indian town lying stem-Bharathiya Vastu sastra- is the basic decipline taken into consideration in the analysis of the capital or Rajadhani of zamorins of calicut. More than 400 historical sites are identified and their importance in the structural and functional level is also pointed out. A comparison of the physical structure of this capital port city and the early capital cities of tamilakam, is also done to understand the general situations in the early city patterns of tannulakam, Another important point discussed in the last part of the Chapter in the dissemination of the Calicut port through ages and its basic reasons. Here, we come across the influence of western city patterns and the penetration of such patterns in this coastal port town.
In the analysis of the structure and functions of capital at Calicut, Zamorins archival materials recently rediscovered by the author ismade use of other source materials are settlement records, paimashi records and foreign notices of Malabar. N.M. Nampoothiry
Part III Nila Rivervalley studies Books and ResearchPapers
(Published/Un published Seminars and Research Oriented Local level I Dist. level/ State level Meetings and discussions attended by N M Nampoothiri as the principal investigator
Books (Published)
!. Arthaantarangal : Collection of Research papers which include papers on Cultural Studies based on literature and Performing Arts. Thrust area Nila river valley.
Published: Central Co-operative Society, University of Calicut 1999 (120 pages)
2. Vellayute Caritram : A manuscript of great historical importance. first indigenous record on Haiders attack on Malabar; first prose writing in the book form in Malayalam modern prose; first Autobiography and historical writing in Malayalam; first eyewitness report and an interview with Haider Ali; first exhaustive report on Nila valley society and culture; written in 1810 (Part II) in 1780 AD (Part I) edited by Dr. N.M. Nampoothiry; Published by Vallathol Vidyapeedam, Sukapuram 1999 (Pages 140)
3. Vijnana chintamani : Collection of research papers: Volume No I. There was a journal by this name which was a collection of Research papers and studied articles published by Punnasseri Neelakanda Sarma, during the period 1889-1922. It included "NEWS" items of Regional, National and International in Sanskrit language. Punnasseri was the founder of the institution and he was a renowned sanskritscholar ,Educationalist and Researcher. The presentl publication is the first book published after 78 years. Vol I includes Interdisciplinary Research Papers on all subjects; Reports on ongoing researches, Reports on new findings etc. The volume is Trilingual: English, Sanskrit and Malayalam. Chief Editor. Dr. N.M. Nampoothiry. Published by Co-op. Society, SNGS College, Pattambi.(See introduction of the journal Etc.)
Books (Under Publication)
1. Vyavahara Mala: Legal code of Kerala during the period 9th cAD to 18th cAD, supposed to be followed by Cheras of Mahodayapuram and the later chieftaincies. Two palm leaf manuscripts brought to the notice by the PI .In one bundle there are one thousand Sanskrit Slokas and their translation to Malayalam with commentary. The second bundle consists 700 Sanskrit Slokas and their commentary in Malayalam. Trans laters name and date of Translation (AD 1818) are seen in one MS.(See reports) This very important MSS was taken out from the Collection of MSS of Punnasseri Nampi kept in the SNGS college Library
Both works are copied and edited by N M Nampoothirias Principal Investigator. It is acceptt:d for Publication by VallatholVidyapeedom, Educational Trust, EdappaI.
2. Lokanar Kaavu Land Records. The manuscript on palmleaves was noted by PI in 1987.
The records of land transactions of feudal families in and around Lokanar Kaavu temple in Badagara, North Malabar is related to a period 1550 AD to 1780 AD. (1)The importance of the record is that the land ownership is seen to all privileged groups of the society under Janmam right. (2) The area was the one from where the famous Ballads of Malabar originated and spread in Kerala. (3) Many Characters in the Folk songs of Medieval periods are seen mentioned in the records as owners of land, and hence the characters seems to he real persons and not mythical.
More than 1000 Land transaction records in number are available with details. A study with the notes, commentary and distribution map of the families are prepared. (See Map).
3. Agricultural Songs: A palm leaf manuscript has heen hrought to light on the subject.
The work is a copy of folk songs on Agriculture existed in Valluvanadu, and copied down by somebody in1884 AD. The earliest written copy of such songs brought to light for the first time. The work is accepted for Publication by Vallathol Vidyapeedam. Sukapuram, Edappal. Notes and a study is prepared by PI.
4. Malabar Studies: The work has been completed, based on Zamorins archival materials and has been under printing by the State Language Institute, Govt. of Kerala.
5. Kavalappara Swaroopam and Panchayat Vijnaneeyam : Panchayat Vijnaneeyam is a Case Study of 12 villages, and the feudal ruler Kavalappara Nair. The work is under printing by Kerala State Gazetteers. Govt. of Kerala. Trivandrum.
Research Papers (Published)
I. Cultural Tradition in Medieval Kerala . Perspectives on Kerala History. Kerala Gazetteers Department, TVM. 1999 pp 265 - 327)
2. Chequered Traditions of Punnasseri Nampi. Vijnana Chintamani, Oriental Research Centre, SNGS College, Pattambi In1999 pp 50 -59)
Research Oriented Papers (Unpublished)


1 Cultural Heritage of Nila River Valley; Perspectives of UGC project.(Mathruhhumi 5.2.99.) 2 The Problem of Writing Hi.story and Culture of Malayala Desam and People; Historio graphical status.( Mathru Bhoomi 14.11.99. )
3 Historiography of Malayalam Cultural Studies ,Methods of D.D. Kosambi and Hermann Gundert - Need of an exhaustive field work methodology and village studies.
(Mathru Bhoomi 31.11.99.)
4 Villalge Studies - Group discussjon - Interdisciplinary discussions needed.( Mathru Bhoomi 16.12.99).
5 Early Records on Adultery or Brashtu : Highly distributed nature of the Adultery on Nila River Valley - Kalakaumudi. 17.1.1999.
6 Brashtu or Adultery: Survl:y and details of proceedings summary of 75 records from 1850 to 1927 : Kalakaumudi. 31.1 .99.
7 Issues of caste based temple entry , A detailed analysis of Historical evolution in the context of Guruvayoor temple entry.( Mathru Bhoomi. 12.10.2000 )
8 Notes on Vyavahara Mala, Agricultural Songs, Temple entry issues at Guruvayur, Investiture ceremony and significance of Head Turbans to Sthanis, Kattilmatom Jaina Basti, Kulamukku paTTanam in 12th century Market, Saiva Vaishava feuds of Nila River Valley etc(Reported in all National dailies during the years 1999 and 2O()().)
9 Historical background of drying up of Bharathappula - Report in the Hindu dt. 18.3.2001
10. Mazhu theerkunna Malayali : New trends of Malayala Cultural Evolution.
Mathru Bhoomi. Aug. 2000.
Spoken Word Programme (AIR, Visual Media etc.)
.
A talk on UGC Project: Feb. 1999. AIR, Trichur.
. A talk on Villalge Studies: June 1999. AIR, Trichur.
. A talk On Marginalised groups in History : Sept. 1999 AIR, Trichur.
. Teaching of History in Schlools : Dec. 1999. AIR, Trichur.
. A feature from AIR Trivandrum on the Nila River Valley Project by AIR themselves under their programme 'Prabhathabheri' : July 2000.
A news item on the Project by ASIANET Television in October 1999.
Research Papers Presented ( Workshops, SeminarsEtc)
I. Power structure and Literary works: Paper presented in the Refresher course of Malayalam SNGS College, Pattambi. 8.12.98. (Resource person) Thrust area Nila Valley.
2. Toponomycal aspects of cultural studies: Paper presented in the Refresher course of teachers of Malaya lam, Calicut University: 15.3.2000. (Thrust area Nila Valley)
3. Methodology of Toponomycal studies Nila river valley: Presented in the workshop, Methodology of Folklore studies, Keralav'arma College, Trich. 25.3.2000. (Thrust area Nila rivervalley)
4. Paper on Toponomycal approaches to be taken in village history studies. Workshop conducted by State Gazetteers Dept. in Alwaye. (Thrust area: Nila valley)
8/2 and 9/2 2000.
5. Paper on Toponomycal Studies and Kerala CultureWithspecial ref:of Village Studies. Seminar/Workshop. Dept. of Cultural Publications, Govt. of Kerala, Trivandrum. 18/12, 19/12, 1999.
(Thrust area: Nila river valley)
National Seminar Papers (Accepted for Publication)
I. National Seminar on Scient ific Heritage of Kerala. SNGS College, Patlambi.
Paper on Rhythm technicalities and Oral tradition. : A Case Study of Boat Songs in Kerala in the special reference on Malabar. SNGS College, Patlamhi. 28.I.2000
2. National Seminar on Kerala Culture, :Mahatma Gandhi University. Kotlayam.
Paper on Zamorins of Calicut: Administration and Power Implementation
17/6. 18/6. 19/6 1999. . Dept. of Malayalam. M.G. University· Proceedings of the Seminar.
3. Annual Conference of Place name Society of India. May 1999. KILA Trichur.
Paper on Saivaisrn, Vaishnavism and Jainism. Social evolution in Nila river banks. (Based on Iranikkulam, Tirumittakkode inscriptions)
(Accepted for publication by Place name society of India Annual proceedings, Mysore.)
4 Fort and Port.Vastu sastra of Calicut Rajadhani and tuRa National Seminar on Vastu Sastra, Dept. of Vastu Sastra, Sree Sankara Sanskrit University, Kaladi. May 2000. A paper on planning of Cal icut City and Port. Implementation of maritime trade, Political strategy (Under publication)
5. National Seminar on Integrated Scientific Knowledge. Kerala Society for Indigenous Sastra Studies Payyannur 11/99. A Paper on agricultural songs in Kerala
6. Report on Village Studies and Panchayath Gazetteer - Submitted to State qazetteers departments, Govt. of Kerala- for preparing the Panchayath Vijnaneeyam : March 2000 Questionnaire prepared on the basis of inte!' departmental consultation for Nila valley UlGC Project is approved for publication by Gazetteers Department. But not done. They Supressed all these facts
Local Awareness Programmes on
Cultural Studies and Village History:
Lectures on Nila river valley Project and Cultural Studies.
l. Nattulsavam : Block Panchayath, Trichur. Feh. 20 -23, 2000.
2. Swajana Samgamam : Seminar on division of customs and manners of Kerala Brahmins Manjery. Dec. 26, 2000.
3. Mamakam - Re-enactment: Dec. 1999 and January 2000 - Two times at Ti:unaavaya on Nila river bank.
4. Village History Studies: Vallachira Grama Panchayath, Trichur. l.l./2000).
5. Village development and planning programme - Kavalappara - July 1999.
6. Folkloritcs: Workshop. 1.4.2000 Mala, Trichur.
7. Village Festivals: Dist. Panchayath. Trichur. Feb. 20 - 23. 2000.
8. Environmental awareness programme. Block Panchayath. Pattamhi. Mar. 8,9 - 2000.
9. Local Library Annua'l Conference : Trithala. March 2000. Studies on Nila Culture.
10. Sarvodaya Mela : Tirunavaya : 12/1/ - 2000. Talk on Nila Culture.
1 l. Project Nila: A discussion to form a committee to study Nila river valley culture.
July 2000 : Conducted by (Govt. Authorities - SubCo]lector- Ottappalam.

Research works after


Barathappuzha project is closed in 2001

1 .Cultural trends based on kerala temple complexes during the medieval period.(RajasekharanNair Memorial Lecture S D College,Alappuzha,June 2005.
2 .Cultural studies and Manuscriptology.(Lecture ,Thunchan parampu,7.4.2005)
3 Kerala Brahmins –A “SAMANVAYA SAKTI” Yogakshema Alleppy May 2005.4.Nampoothiri”s of kerala(KHCR Trichur2004.) . 5 Historical background of kerala and Tulunad The64 grama settlements.Yogaksema Annual 2004). 6. History,Culture,andSociety.(Kanippayyur smarana Kanippyur 27.6.05) 7. Bhagavanenthinu paaraavu (Caste system and Temple s of kerala) Matrubhoomi weekly.2003. 8. Rayiranallur,Kulamukku,Dharmothumkaavu Studies And Field Survey(2005). 9. Malabar Rekhakal(KHCR ,TCR 29.11.04). 10. Mahodaya puram-Vastu of Capital of Kulasekharas(KKTKM College ,UGC Seminar,8.12.04.). 11. Nilayute Janaprakriti, Vallathol Vidya peedom, ( Seminar,Thiruvilvamala,11.12.04).
12 .Intrductory to Vaniyamkulam vijnaniyam(Submitted to gazetteer Director in 2000)
13 Villagestudyof kuuttanad(2001May)Naggilassery Panchayath
14 Potturkavu:AyyappnKavuThattakam Ayyappan kavu Souvenir(Pottur,Edappal
Malappuram Dist 2004)
15. Muziris-Astudy KHCR TrichurDEC 2004
16 Introductory toONAPPATTUKAR,Collection of poems by Latheef Parampil (Mathrubhoomi 2005)History of Onam is also discussed.
17 Vanchippattukal –Nehrutrophy Souvenir( Alleppy 2005)
18 A study on music compositions of swathithirunal(Swathisamgeetholsavam Alleppy 2005&2006)
19.Lectures on Malayalam Language and literature andMalaylaculture 1.St.Joseph College Alleppy 2. SNCollege Cherthala 3.Senior citizens Zonal meeting(2005)
20 Gurukkanmarute guru(R..Ramachandran memorial volume 2006)
21 Kerala village history-VANIYAMKULAM VIJNANIIYAM Theory and implimentaion. Details of the evolutionary stages of the PIONEERING THEROY AND INFRASTRUCTURAL SET UP and methodology (Mathrubhoomi Weekly May14. ,21 and 28-2006)It includes a back up article of the CO-ORDINATOR of the work, P. K. .Sivadas Srampimadom West koratty Trichur kerala.

Original Records of Investiture Ceremony - Zamorins of Calicut (Published in Grandhavaris of Calicut Series BookNo:1 ,2005;published in vol I (1999) and volVII (2005)of the project work and These records were studied and included in Vol -III Kerala Samskaaram Akavum puravum.and Vol III- Malabar padanangal -Saamoothiri Naatu.It is not acknowledged by Dr M r Raghava varrior When he edited Grandhavari series of Vallathol Vidyapeedom.Grandhavari.

Details of Title holders are given in the book Maamaankam Rekhakal Edt.N MNampoothiri,vallathol Vidyapeedom ,Sukapuram. A list of Prabhukkanmar (Sthanikal )|is given in the bookPub:2006
Families which had 'Talacharnor' title are listed here. More than 350 families with 'Sthani' titles spread over Nila Valley are identified. The investigations to identify their geographical spreading is being done, Based on Toponyms figured in Settlement records of 1892. A distrihution map will he prepared to find the actual situations. families of many of them, their power, status etc. are given in Malabar Studies.As noted in the discussion, the details of investiture ceremony existed from at least 1450 AD. Very important descriptions of them are discussed based on original records of the chieftains palaces .. Hither to unnoticed records are now brought to light. The original records, of this type alone amount to more than one hundered. They are collected. dlicumented, analysed and being published. A vol­ume of them' Investiture ceremonies conductcd by Zamorins of Calicut " is under publication of Vallathol Educational Trust, Sukapuram, Edappal.The Volume will come out in July 200 I.

Original Records.Survey details Ongoing works Etc

List of Sthaniis and original records of investiture ceremoney
Incorporated in Volumes already published and uder publicationThe model of analysis is innterweaving the ideas involved in the primary sources collected in various ways.

Titles :I. Kutira vattathu Nair, ValayanaTu atikaravar 2. Chalappurath Nair 3. Chempil Mootha Panicker 4. Pantalur Patanayar - Valayankkanttu Kaimal 5. Mathilakathu Kongacheri Mootha Nayar 6. Mulanjur Patanayar 7.Chunangattu Talacharnor 8 talappu Nair 9. Ali parambil Men on 10. Nellaya Patanayar 11 Pariyamkotta Nair 12. Tuvvakkata Kammal
13. Kannir Vakkutaya Kammal 14. Ampaalappurath Moothatu 15. VeliyannurPozhtti
16. Kozhikkodu Amkataya Utaya Kuruppu 17. Ayyayira Prahhu Kartha 18 Viittikkaattil Atikarar 19 Njarakkattu Mootha Nair 20. VaTakkinkuuttil Mootha Nair
21. Tilvannur Kanakkan 22. Theearakkottu Pata Nair 23. Talavanna Kuruppll
24. Puthllkkuti Lalappu Nair

Date of Records and Numher of Records.
Incorporated in Volumes already published and uder publicationThe model of analysis is innterweaving the ideas involved in the primary sources collected in various ways.


1A.D. 1600.Three Records. A.D. 1600.Six Records. A.D. 1601 Five.Records. A.D. 1601 Five 5 Records.2A.D. 1608, 1649.Six Records. A.D. 1604.Five Records.
3A.D. 1624, 1676. Ten Records. A.D. 1600.Seven Records4A.D. 1600. 2 Records.
5A.D. 1600. 2 Records. 6A.D. 1600. 2 Records. 7A.D. 1675. 3 Records.
8A.D. 1675. 2 Records 9A.D. 1677. 3 Records. 10A.D. 1677. 3 Records.
11A.D. 167. 3 Records. 12A.D. 1584. 3 Records 13A.D. 1584. 3 Records
14A.D. 1584. 2 Records. 15A.D. 1584 3 Records. 16A.D. 1584. 3 Records.
17 .A D. 15884. 3 Records. 18A.D. 1584. 3 Records. 19A.D. 1584. 3 Records.


In each record more than 15 title holders are mentioned with family name and place o! the ancestoral houses. Nearly 500 of them are seen spread over Nila river valley. Apart from this the title giving ceremony records of Kunjali Marakkar (AD 1617) and Sahahandar Koya are also included. Total numher of records in this volulme.., one hundred with detailed analysis. All the erst while Chericals of Zamorins of Calicut (Divisions, of Land ruled by Talacarnor's) on the valley are also identified

Collection of Research Papers onNila Valley Culture (See vol 11)
Incorporated in Volumes already published and uder publicationThe model of analysis is innterweaving the ideas involved in the primary sources collected in various ways.

I. Most of the papers were presented in the National Seminar on Kerala Culture, inaugu­rated by K.R. Narayanan, Hon' ble Vice President of India. The sessions of the seminar and the co-ordination of the Researchers were aimed to evolve interdisciplinary approach and initiate Area Studies and River Valley Studies in the Kerala context.
More than 75 papers were presented in the Seminar. They are listed below. These papers are now the part of this major research project and necessary applications is being forwarded forwarded to UGC for Publication Grant. A set of Research Papers are also under preparation by various Scholars on Cultural aspects of the valley. These papers will also be the part of publication since they are being prepared on the request of the P I for analysis of the Cultural Problems.
Ongoing field works and Preparation of Cultural RegistersSurface surveys.
Incorporated in Volumes already published and uder publicationThe model of analysis is innterweaving the ideas involved in the primary sources collected in various ways.

In the inter departmental consultancy programme conducted in 22.10.1999, a large number of volunteerinvestigaters with basic knowledge in various subjects were present. Many of them took up the field work and a large area was srveyed.Now surface surveys in the model to get source materials for area studies are being under taken .

1. Trithala 2 Kuthanoor 3 Kulalmannam 4. Kottayil 5 Vettathur
6. Pattambi 7. Purathur 8. Teruvaliyod 9 Sreekrishnapuram 10.Kongad 11.Chittoor 12. Pallassana 13 Kodikkunnu 14 Angadippuram 15. Alathoor 16. Perinthalmanna 17 Muthuthala 18 Thanur 19. Thirunavay 20 Kuttippuram 21. Irippurangode 22. Nannammukku 23 Kunnamkulam 24. Mookkutala 25 Puttanpalli 26.Anakkara 27 Kumbidi 28. Nenmara 29. Kollamkode30 Pulamanthole31 Koodallur 32. Mannarghat 33. Ponnani 34. Perur 35 Pallippuram 36. Pattithara 37. Paruthur 38. Vanneri 39. Perumpatopp 40. Thachampara 41.Chittoor 42.Koduvayoor 43. Kavasseri 44. Alathur 45. Mangalam 46. Naduvattom 47 Peruvempu 48. Vadakkamcheri 49Olavakkot 50 Muntoor 51Koottanad 52. Thiruvazhamkunnu 53 Puthussery54Vandittavalam55Pulassery 56. Irukkatiri57Ampalappara 58 Malamakkavu 59.Thiruvegappura 60. Ongallur 61Chalissery62Cherukot 63Mulayamkavu 64 Thanneerkodu 65. Shoranu

The number of villages in each Panchayaths ranges between 12 - 15. This means, 800 villages are now under investigation. The data is being recieved and the programme was thus a success.

List of Scholars Who helped in the investigations and areas consulted/and ongoing works for Village/Area (period1999 ownwards)
Incorporated in Volumes already published and uder publicationThe model of analysis is innterweaving the ideas involved in the primary sources collected in various ways.
1. Dr.M. Gangadharan : Mappila out breaks in Nila river valley. 2. Dr. Rajan Chungath : Folk stories and mythical places. 3. Prof. K.P. Sankaran : Contribution of C.S. Nair. 4. Prof. Sukumar Azheekode : Punnasseri Nampi, Kuttikrishna Marar, K.S. Ezhuthachan 5. Rajanandan: Kathakali : Actors, Artistes and other aspects, Classical arts. 6. Anilkumar: Details of Kalladikkode. Dr. M.N. Karassery: Mappila songs and Performing arts. 8. N.P. Vijayakrishnan : on Chenda, Tayampaka, Temple arts etc9. Dr. Sasi Bhooshan : Mural paintings of temples and related aspects. 10. Dr. Raman Bhattathiri : Architectural patterns of temples and feudal families.11 VTVasudevan : Yogakshema movement.12. Sadanam Harikumar : Kathakali music and performances. 1.3. Sri. K.C. Narayanan: Classical arts in temples. Tayambaka, Panchavadyam etc14. Dr. C.R. Rajagopal : Folk Culture and performing arts. 15. Dr. K.N. Ganesan : Tullal and Kunjan Nambiar. 16. Dr. K. unnikrishnan : Puppet plays. 17.Dr. Raja Ram: Tamil settlers of Palghat. 18. Dr. Muraleedhar : Palghat - City patterns. Sri. V Krishna Varier: AyurveJa medicines and Medicinal Plants. 19. K.P. Sivadas : Folk Sports. 20. P.M. Narayanan: Magicians and their families. 21. Killimangalam Vasudevan Nampoothiri : Classical Arts, Nangyar koothu, Mohiniyattam Kathakali and Tullal. 22. K. Vijayakumar : Kalari System 23. Viswanatha Gurukkal : Kalari System 24. Njayath Balan: Kathakali, Chakiar koothu and related aspects25. Dr. Rajaram : Traditions of Carnatic Music26. Dr. Bijukumar : Biodiversity 01" Nila river Valley. 27. Indianoor Gopi : Degeneration aspects of Nila river Valley.28. Dr. G.N. Panicker: Deforestation issues of Nila river Valley.29. Subramanyan Nampoothiri : Yaga ritual and families related to it. 30 K.V Dileepkumar : Ezhuthachan and his Age. 31 Dr. K. Krishnan:Nampoothiryouthmovementand their after effects. 32 Naduvattom Gopalakrishnan : Historical monuments of Valluvanad.33 TNN Bhattathiri : Check dams in the Bharathappulaforsustainable drinking water sources. 34 C.B.Rajeevan : Economic Development of the Nila Basin. A tentative explorationof the ca uses.35 Anandan: A forgotten language and stage36 Dr. Sreedevi : Story telling tradition of Kerala's Sanskrit literature. 37 Dr. Sumangala : Use and abuse of water resources38 Dr. Ulloor Parameswaran : Lihraries for Malabar Socio-Economic evelopment roposal for a Malabar Studyollection39 Dr. Unnikrishnan : Ret1ections of the river valley culture intheiterature.
. Family Histories:Area surveys Based on themes
Incorporated in Volumes already published and uder publicationThe model of analysis is innterweaving the ideas involved in the primary sources collected in various ways.
1. Punnasseri Nampi 2 Venganattu Nampiti 3. DesamangalamMana 4. Poomulli Mana 5. Vilwa Mangalam6. Vella Mana 7. Vettom Chieftain 8.Valluvanatu Chieftain 9. Tarur Swaroopam . Talappallil Rajas 10. Alathur Nampis 12. Kavalappara Chieftaincy 14.Kottakkal Ayurveda Families 15. P. V. Krishna variar family, Kottakkal 16. Vaidya Madom Family 17. Tarakkal and other Sthani families listed in the list of investiture ceremony of Zamorins. 18. Anakkara Nair Family 19. Alvanchery Mana 20. Pulamanthole moosad21. Tekkedathu Mana
Incorporated in Volumes already published and uder publicationThe model of analysis is innterweaving the ideas involved in the primary sources collected in various ways.

I. Kaavu System – Katapparampathukaav(2 Muttassiar kaavu 3. Kotikkunnu temple 4. Tirumittakode temple5. lndianoor temple .
6. Kattilmadom a Jaina Basti. 7. Sukapuram - Brahmin Settlement
8. Panniyoor - Brahmin Settlement 9. Tirunaavaa and Mamakam (Area survey and family survey) 10. Challli"avattom temple 11. Ponnani Port and Zamorins palace survey 12. Kulamukku - A river valley market - Survey ] 3. Studies on Vyavahara Mala (Legal Code of Conduct)
14. Studies on Agricultural Songs ( A Palm leaf manuscript) 15. Studies on Adultery (Brushtu) - 75 incidents 16. Studies on Zamorin's records - Letters of correspondence - 18th and 19th

Investigations being done by scholars as a part of Peoples History based on the Principles of JANAPADHA PADHANAM under NMNampoothiri

1 Dr Rajan chunkathu on nilavalley and panthirukulam myths (Published a book on the subject and an album of river valley Photos1993-1999).
2.Muhammed Marakkar(Palestine,Naduvathur,quilandy,1993-1999)Detailed survey on Kunjali family-More than 20 research papers were published.
3.Muhammed koya P(Muslims of CALICUT , a pioneering Book,whichwonnational award1990-1995)
4.B,Rajendu on Dharmothu panicker family (2005-work is progressing)
5 Mohanan thekkumbhagom (done surveys on Tirunavaya,Valluvanad Chieftais family1985)
(A list of field workers and researchers is given separately.See the list given in Vaniyamkulam Gazetteers and list in the thesis A STUDY OF PLACE NAMES IN THE CALICUT DISTRICT )
6Re-Enactment in1999and 2000-K.Krishnakumar (see details)
7Folk Arts of MALABAR KURIEN THOMAS KOTTAYAM forASIANET in1999(See details)

 

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