Thiruvananthapuram

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Raja ravivarma painting 50 historic meeting

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TVM Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Padmanabhapuram Clock Tower

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1733 Homann Heirs Map of India - Geographicus - India-homannheirs-1733

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Thambiran Vanakkam 1578

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A language map of India prepared for the missionary projects at Serampore, 1822

Thiruvananthapuram, also known by its former name Trivandrum, is the capital of the Indian state of Kerala. It is the most populous city in Kerala and ranks among the major academic and research hubs in India. Thiruvananthapuram holds a significant position in Indian history and culture, often referred to as the "Evergreen city of India" by Mahatma Gandhi.

History

The history of Thiruvananthapuram dates back to around 1000 BCE with references in ancient texts like the Puranas. The region was a trading post for spices, sandalwood, and ivory. The city gained prominence in the 18th century under the rule of Marthanda Varma, the founder of the princely state of Travancore. He transformed Thiruvananthapuram into a major cultural and intellectual hub, and the city continued to flourish under the Travancore dynasty.

Geography

Thiruvananthapuram is located on the west coast of India, bordered by the Arabian Sea to the west and the Western Ghats to the east. The city is characterized by its hilly terrain and lush greenery. The region experiences a tropical climate, with heavy monsoon rains from June to September.

Economy

The economy of Thiruvananthapuram is diverse, with contributions from sectors such as information technology, tourism, education, and healthcare. The city is home to the Technopark, one of the largest IT parks in Asia, which employs tens of thousands of people. Tourism also plays a vital role in the economy, with attractions such as the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Kovalam Beach, and the Napier Museum drawing visitors from around the globe.

Culture

Thiruvananthapuram's culture is a blend of traditional Kerala, colonial, and modern influences. The city is known for its classical music, dance forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, and its unique cuisine that features seafood and coconut-based dishes. The annual Onam festival and the Attukal Pongala, which holds the Guinness World Record for being the largest gathering of women for a religious activity, are major cultural events.

Education and Research

The city is an academic and research hub, hosting several prestigious institutions like the University of Kerala, Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), and Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology. These institutions play a crucial role in the fields of space science, nanotechnology, and health sciences.

Transport

Thiruvananthapuram is well-connected by air, road, and rail. The Thiruvananthapuram International Airport offers domestic and international flights, making it a key entry point to Kerala. The city's railway station is one of the oldest in India, linking it to major cities across the country. Additionally, a network of roads and state highways facilitates easy travel within Kerala and neighboring states.

Governance

As the capital city, Thiruvananthapuram is the seat of the Kerala State Government. The city is administered by the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation, which oversees its civic and infrastructural development. The city also plays a pivotal role in state politics, housing the Kerala Legislative Assembly and various government departments.

Tourism

Thiruvananthapuram is a major tourist destination, known for its historic sites, beaches, and cultural institutions. Key attractions include the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, renowned for its architectural beauty and religious significance; Kovalam Beach, a favorite spot for swimming and sunbathing; and the Napier Museum, which showcases Kerala's rich cultural heritage.