History of Grama Panchayat

1. Toponymic History and Geography

Muvattupuzha: This name was derived because it is the confluence of three rivers: the Thodupuzha River, the Kothamangalam River, and the Kaliyar River. 90% of the Muvattupuzha village area is located in Avoly Panchayat.

Avoly Panchayat: This panchayat consists of 6 "karas" (localities/divisions): Avoly, Randarkara, Anikkad, Nadukara, Kavana, and Muvattupuzha.

Behind the names of the "karas":

  • Randatinakara: Named because it is the land (kara) of two rivers (randu attu).
  • Anikkad: A place (kadu) where Anni (Anjili/wild jack) trees were abundant.
  • Avoly: The name Avoli originated from the term 'Oli', meaning a stream or flow of water.

2. Socio-Cultural Background

Religious Harmony: This is a region where Hindu, Christian, and Muslim communities live with great unity and brotherhood.

Riverine Culture: Approximately 15 kilometers of the river flow through the panchayat. In ancient times, the main inhabited areas and cultural centers were along these riverbanks.

3. Renaissance and National Movement

Numerous social changes have taken place in this region as part of the National Movement:

  • Anti-smoking campaigns, boycott of foreign clothes.
  • Isolated protests against monarchical rule.
  • Anti-untouchability movement, Hindi propagation movement.
  • Efforts to end evil practices like animal sacrifice in temples.

4. Education and Health

Education: Initially, there were only two LP schools here. In 1952, the famous Nirmala College was established. Today, it is a major educational center offering undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Health: Starting with traditional medicine, today all modern and traditional healthcare facilities, including Allopathy, Ayurveda, and Homeopathy, are available here.

5. Transportation

In ancient times, boat travel through the rivers (water transport) and bullock carts on land were the primary modes of transport.

Later, bicycles were widely used, but today they have become very rare.

6. Main Places of Worship

Temples: Anikkad Thiruvamplavil Mahadeva Temple, Avoly Sree Subramanya Temple, Vallikad Paradevatha Temple, Avoly Pudhusseriklari, Kavanapallikkaparambu Devaswam Shiva Temple, and numerous sacred groves (kavus).

Churches: Anikkad St. Sebastian's Church, Randarkara St. Michael's Church, Nadukara St. Matthew's Church, and many wayside crosses (kurishupallikal).

Summary: Avoly Panchayat is an excellent example of religious harmony, with a geography surrounded by rivers, a strong renaissance tradition, and facilities for higher education.