History of Grama Panchayat
📍 Geographical Features
Location: Situated in Chowannur Block, Kunnamkulam Taluk, Thrissur District.
Area: 13.47 square kilometers.
Wards and Population: Home to a population of 18,324 people spread across 14 wards.
Borders: Shares its borders with the Grama Panchayats of Kattakampal, Kadavallur, Kadangode, and Chowannur, as well as the Kunnamkulam Municipality.
🌱 Nature and Tourism
Kulavetti (Syzygium travancoricum): The presence of 'Kulavetti', a globally rare and endangered plant species, is a major testament to the region's rich biodiversity.
Narimada Hills: A scenic location perfect for enjoying natural beauty.
Vedakkad: A historically significant site that houses ancient cave complexes.
📜 History and Cultural Heritage
Scientific Excavation: Kerala’s first-ever scientific archaeological excavation took place in Porkulam, highlighting its immense historical importance.
Bhoodan Movement: The panchayat played an active and noteworthy role in activities related to Acharya Vinoba Bhave’s Bhoodan (Land Gift) movement.
Freedom Fighters: Kurumbur Appukuttan, Cheruthuruthy Velappan, and P.V. Koman are the brave freedom fighters who hail from this land.
✒️ Literary and Cultural Icons
Pattethiri: The renowned poet known as the 'Arakavi' (half-poet) among the Pathinettara Kavikal (Eighteen-and-a-Half Poets) lived here.
C.V. Sreeraman: The acclaimed writer who also served as the President of the Porkulam Grama Panchayat for a long period.
Other Prominent Personalities: Literary figure Iype Paramel and the celebrated poet and lyricist Rafeeq Ahamed are also among those who have elevated the cultural pride of this region.