Kottayam

Purple Swamphen (Porphyrio poliocephalus) 22-Mar-2007 10-12-15 AM

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Kottayam is a city in the Indian state of Kerala. Known for its significant contribution to print media and education, Kottayam is often referred to as the "Akshara Nagari" which translates to the City of Letters. It holds the distinction of being the first city in India to achieve 100% literacy, a milestone reached in 1989. The city is also renowned for its role in the Indian independence movement, its rich cultural heritage, and as a center for the Malayalam language literature.

History

The history of Kottayam dates back to many centuries, with its name believed to be derived from the Malayalam words Kotta (meaning fort) and Akam (inside), pointing to its origins as a fortified city. Over the years, Kottayam has been a witness to many significant historical events, including struggles against British colonial rule. The region was also a forefront in the social reform movements in Kerala, advocating for education, eradication of caste discrimination, and upliftment of women in society.

Geography

Kottayam is strategically located between the western ghats and the Vembanad Lake, making it rich in natural beauty and resources. The city's geography is characterized by picturesque hills, lush paddy fields, and extensive rubber plantations. The climate in Kottayam is tropical, with heavy monsoon rains occurring from June to September.

Economy

The economy of Kottayam is predominantly based on agriculture, with rubber being the most significant crop. The city is one of the major centers for rubber trade in India. Apart from agriculture, Kottayam has a well-developed publishing industry, with many of the state's newspapers and periodicals being published from here. The education sector is another critical contributor to the local economy, with numerous prestigious institutions offering a wide range of courses.

Culture

Kottayam's culture is a harmonious blend of religious diversity, literature, art, and cuisine. The city celebrates various festivals with great enthusiasm, irrespective of religion. It has made substantial contributions to Malayalam literature, with many prominent writers hailing from this region. The cuisine of Kottayam is characterized by the use of spices and flavors unique to Kerala.

Education

Kottayam is a major educational hub in Kerala, housing several institutions of higher learning, including the Mahatma Gandhi University, one of the largest universities in the state. The city's commitment to education is evident from its achievement of 100% literacy. Schools and colleges in Kottayam offer a wide range of courses in arts, science, commerce, and professional studies.

Tourism

Kottayam attracts tourists with its natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural heritage. Key attractions include the ancient Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, the serene Vembanad Lake, and the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. The city serves as a gateway to the famous backwaters of Kerala, offering picturesque houseboat cruises.

Transport

Kottayam is well-connected by road, rail, and water. The Kottayam Railway Station is an important railhead in the Southern Railway network, facilitating easy access to major cities across India. The city's road network connects it to other parts of Kerala and neighboring states. Water transport is also significant, with the backwaters being a vital mode of local conveyance.

Conclusion

Kottayam is a city that beautifully encapsulates the essence of Kerala, from its rich cultural heritage and educational achievements to its economic significance and natural beauty. It continues to be a source of inspiration and a beacon of progress in the state.