FAIRS
& FESTIVALS
Kerala,
cut off as it is from the rest of India by the Western
Ghats, is noted for its rich culture, heritage and other
distinctive characteristics. Keralites have the rare capability
to imbibe and assimilate lofty ideals and principles wherever
they find them. Religious tolerance, hospitality, cleanliness,
simple life and broad outlook of the people have attracted
many a foreigner to the State from time immemorial, besides
her scenic beauty, pleasant climate and rich natural resources.
History
has helped the Malayali to develop a cosmopolitan outlook.
Kerala had contacts with the rest of the world for several
centuries in the past. The important trading centres of
Kerala had relations with Egypt, Asia Minor, China, Assyria,
Babylonia, Greece, Rome, Malaya, Philippines, Java and Sumatra.
The Kerala Kings and chieftains provided them with all possible
assistance not only to carry on trade, but also to settle
down here and propagate their religions. It is believed
that the Apostle St. Thomas landed on Kerala in 51-54 AD
St. Thomas established seven churches in the State in places
like Palayar, Niranam and Thumboly. Cheraman Juma Masjid
at Kodungalloor, the first Juma Masjid in India, was set
up under the patronage of the Raja of Kodungalloor. Tradition
has it that 10,000 Jews came to Kerala soon after destruction
of their second temple in their homeland in 72 AD
There
is an ancient Jain temple near the Palakad town. There are
thus hundreds of instances of the Hindu rulers of the princely
states of Kerala who made land and wealth available for
the construction of churches and mosques. In some cases
even temple buildings were given to establish institutions
of other religions. Thousands of Namboodiris, the then caste-Hindus
and even kings like Cheraman Perumal, changed their religions.
Another notable feature is that there is no antagonism between
one religion and another. Lord Ayyappa, an important deify
of the Hindus, had close friendly relations with a Muslim,
Vavar. It is further to be noted that many churches and
mosques in Kerala are situated adjacent to temples suggesting
that communal harmony and religious tolerance are an essential
part of Kerala's culture and heritage. Even the responsibility
for organising certain ceremonies and rituals of some of
these institutions is vested with the local people belonging
to other communities. Fairs and festivals of the places
of worship are programmed in tune with the cultural background
and heritage of Keralites. In short, 'Keralisation' of the
festivals of different communities is the unique feature
of Kerala life.
