Echoes of History
Beyond mere signposts, certain villages in the Idukki region, like Anchunadu, possess distinct markers of their identity: the Thalaivasal. These centuries-old stone gateways stand as official entrances
to the cluster of settlements nestled on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border. In Anchunadu, they are more than just architectural remnants; they are silent custodians of history, some even bearing ancient Tamil inscriptions and flanking idols of Karuppanna Swami, a revered guardian deity. These structures are deeply rooted in the past, with village elders tracing their origins back nearly 500 years. At that time, Anchunadu was part of the Periyakulam taluk in what is now Tamil Nadu, before its eventual integration into Idukki's Devikulam taluk. This historical context highlights the deep cultural ties and administrative shifts that have shaped the region.
Guardians of Tradition
The Thalaivasal system, believed to be almost 500 years old, played a crucial role in the early days of Anchunadu. T S Gunasekharan, a respected elder from Keezhanthoor village, reminisces about a time when Anchunadu was a unified collection of settlements including Kanthalloor, Keezhanthoor, Karayur, Marayur, and Kottagudi (now in Tamil Nadu). In that era, with sparse populations and fewer houses per village, the Thalaivasal acted as the singular entry point. It functioned much like a security checkpoint, ensuring that no outsider could enter without the community's awareness or consent. As populations expanded and road networks developed, the practicality of the Thalaivasal as a literal gatekeeper diminished, with multiple access points emerging. However, its significance has not waned, remaining central to village customs and life events.
Living Customs Today
Despite the evolution of infrastructure, the Thalaivasal continues to hold profound cultural sway in Anchunadu and surrounding areas. Its ceremonial importance is deeply ingrained, with significant life events only formally commencing after passage through these ancient gateways. For instance, brides and grooms traditionally pass through the Thalaivasal as a gesture of respect to the entire village community, symbolizing their union within its embrace. During major festivals like the Mariyamman and Chithira festivals, processions are intentionally routed through the Thalaivasal, serving as a symbolic start to the celebrations. In nearby Vattavada, known for its Jallikattu tradition during Pongal, the Thalaivasal takes on another vibrant role. Bulls participating in the event are released one by one into the arena through this gateway, from where skilled, unarmed youths attempt to subdue them, adding a thrilling dimension to the traditional practice.
Symbol of Sanctuary
Across Tamil-speaking regions, especially within the Palani Hills, the Thalaivasal has consistently symbolized a transition from the external world into a protected communal space. These gateways are often strategically aligned with the main street leading to either the oldest dwelling or the home of the village founder, emphasizing their connection to the community's origins. Traditionally, the Thalaivasal is overseen by guardian deities like Ayyanar or Karuppanna Swami. These deities are believed to offer protection, safeguarding the village, its lands, and its inhabitants from harm. This spiritual aspect reinforces the Thalaivasal's role not just as a physical marker, but as a sacred threshold imbued with protective energies and historical narratives.
