Alangad
Grama Panchayat

The name Alangad is believed to have originated from the word “Alam.” In Malayalam, Alam means sugarcane. Similarly, the Tamil word Aalai is also associated with sugarcane and sugarcane processing. Therefore, Alangad can be interpreted as “the land of sugarcane.”

Historically, Alangad was renowned as a major centre of sugarcane cultivation and jaggery production. Large quantities of sugarcane were cultivated here, and the region became famous for the manufacture of jaggery. This reputation is reflected in the writings of the celebrated Malayalam poet Kunchan Nambiar, who referred to Alangad jaggery in his verse:

“Ālaṅgāṭan sharkkara yuṇḍakaḷ nālāñjaṅṅu kazhicchīṭukil…”

Alangad holds great historical significance. Situated between Aluva and Paravur, it was once a feudal principality under the suzerainty of the Kingdom of Cochin. It was ruled by a Nair chieftain known as Mangattu Kaimal.

The eastern boundary of this small kingdom extended up to Malayattoor. The territories under its administration included Alangad, Ayiroor, Chengamanad, Kothakulangara, Manapra, and Parakkadavu.

The Alangad royal lineage later split into two branches known as Karutha Thaivazhi and Velutha Thaivazhi. Historical records mention adoptions into these royal families from Valluvanad. Dutch historian Golanassi documented that the Dutch Company received nearly 30 tons of pepper annually from Alangad.

In 1756, Alangad was invaded by the Zamorin of Calicut. In 1762, the Travancore army defeated the Zamorin and regained control. As a reward, the King of Cochin ceded Paravur and Alangad to the Kingdom of Travancore. From then until India’s independence, Alangad remained under Travancore.

Alangad also witnessed the military campaign of Tipu Sultan. On 15 April 1790, Tipu breached the Nedumkotta fortification, captured nearby forts, and advanced through Paravur and Alangad toward Aluva. His campaign ended when he withdrew in anticipation of conflict with British forces led by Colonel Hartley.

Religious and Cultural Heritage

Alangad has long been known for its rich cultural and religious traditions rooted in Kerala’s diverse heritage.

Ancient temples in the region include:

• Thiruvalloor Mahadeva Temple
• Neericode Shiva Temple
• Chembola Kalari — traditionally associated with Lord Ayyappa
• Sreekrishnapuram Temple

Temple festivals have been celebrated here for centuries with great devotion and public participation.

The historic St. Mary's Church, established around 600 years ago, remains an important spiritual and cultural centre. Annual feast celebrations are accompanied by a variety of art and cultural programmes. In earlier times, Biblical dramas, Chavittu Nadakam, and Margam Kali were regularly staged.

Likewise, festivals associated with Alangad Kunnelpally continue to feature vibrant cultural celebrations.

The centuries-old Alangad Juma Masjid attracts devotees from across Kerala. Mosques are also located in Panayikkulam and Methanam. The Nabi Dinam procession draws large participation every year. Traditional Muslim cultural performances such as Oppana, Kolkali, and Parichamuttu Kali, especially during weddings, remain an integral and celebrated part of Alangad’s cultural identity.

Together, these traditions reflect Alangad’s rich history of harmony, heritage, and cultural diversity.