KOZHIKODE: Researchers found articles, letters and books from the ancient Kidangazhi Mana in Porur panchayat in Malappuram which throw light on the pre-independence era as well as the rich cultural heritage of the Malabar region. The team from the history department of Calicut University found letters written during the independence movement, especially during the Malabar rebellion and also books including Pattambi Panchangam, a 115-year old almanac.
The palm-leaf documents found in the house are marked with the seals of British stamp office, Kozhikode treasury and local coat of arms. “One of the major findings from the Mana is the letters written by a servant of the landlord in 1921 which describes the hardships suffered by the tenants under their janmis. Many such letters are there in the collection which would immensely contribute to further research,” said team leader and head of the department of history Dr P. Sivadasan.
The books and records also reveal the social setup during the early 20th century and the major social changes happened in the aristocratic families. Many progressive magazines and books on social movements including Basal Mission’s Keralopakari, Anaadi Yogakshemam, G. Sankara Kurup’s book on Tipu Sultan, land survey hand books are also part of the collection. The university is planning to conduct an archival workshop in the Mana for further research on the documents. Digitising the documents is also part of the workshop, Dr Sivadasan said.
