Rama Temple, Thriprayar – History

Rama Temple, Thriprayar – History

The temple was originally under the domain of the Zamorin rulers of Kerala. It later came under the possession of the Dutch, the Mysore sultans, and the rulers of Cochin. The temple is located on land known as Chettuva Island, that was annexed by the Dutch in 1718 CE. When Tipu Sultan came to defeat the Dutch, he also threatened Triprayar temple. However, realizing the divine power of the Lord, he donated land to the temple for the Vedi Vazhipadu during the Athazha pooja.

The profit from the land was used for Vedi Vazhipadu. This small land is known as Tipu Sarvmanyam. The temple later became part of Kingdom of Kochi and was given over to the Namboothiri families. The roof of the sanctum was covered with copper by the king of Kochi. The temple belonged to 42 Illams of Namboothiris. 39 of these 42 Illams perished during the course of time. The temple then came under the control of Cheloor, Punnappilly and Janappilly Illams.

The three Illams had a fight with local ruler (Naduvazhi), Blahayil Nair, in 1825 CE. The temple remained closed due to the fight for six months. The temple later came under the control of Blahayil Nair from 1827 CE to 1841 CE. The temple was returned to the three Illams in 1841 CE. The temple came under the control of Cochin royal family in 1865 CE. Finally, the temple was handed over to the Cochin Devaswom Board.

Still, the heads of these three Illams serve as the Ooralans of the temple and take part in the rituals and festivals in accordance with the customs. There are two inscriptions found in this temple. One of the inscriptions gives information about Moozhikulam Kacham. Another inscription records the donation of property and things to the temple by Muruknattu Sankaran Kanttapozhan.