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{{Short description|Town in Kerala, India}}
{{Short description|Town in Kerala, India}}
{{Refimprove|date=August 2022}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2018}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2018}}
{{Use Indian English|date=July 2018}}
{{Use Indian English|date=July 2018}}
{{Infobox settlement
{{Infobox settlement
| name                           = Changanassery
| name               = Changanassery
| native_name                     = <!-- Please do not add any Indic script in this infobox, per WP:INDICSCRIPT guideline. -->
| native_name       = <!-- Please do not add any Indic script in this infobox, per WP:INDICSCRIPT guideline. -->
| native_name_lang               =  
| native_name_lang   =  
| other_name                     =  
| other_name         = Changanacherry
| settlement_type                 = Municipality
| settlement_type   = [[List of urban local bodies in Kerala|Municipality]]<ref name="auto1">https://lsgkerala.gov.in/system/files/2017-10/localbodies.pdf {{Bare URL PDF|date=August 2024}}</ref>
| image_skyline                   = {{multiple image
| image_skyline     = {{multiple image
| border                          = infobox
| border                          = infobox
| total_width                    = 320
| total_width                    = 300
| image_style                    =  
| image_style                    =  
| perrow                          = 2/1/1
| perrow                          = 2/2/1
| image1                          = SB College, Changanassery, Kerala, India.JPG
| image1                          = SB College, Changanassery, Kerala, India.JPG
| image2                          = ChanganasseryAnchuVilakku.jpg
| image2                          = ChanganasseryAnchuVilakku.jpg
| image3                          = Ilamkavu Devi temple.jpg
| image3                          = Ilamkavu Devi temple.jpg
| image4                          = Changanssery Boat Jetty with Market Church.jpg
| image4                          = Changanssery Boat Jetty with Market Church.jpg
| image5                          = NSS Hindu College, Changanassery.jpg
}}
}}
| image_alt                       =  
| image_alt         =  
| image_caption                   = Clockwise, top to bottom: [[St. Berchmans College]]; The Anchuviḷakku; Iḷamkavu Devi Temple; The boat jetty
| image_caption     = Clockwise, top to bottom: [[St. Berchmans College]]; The Anchuviḷakku; Iḷamkavu Devi Temple; The boat jetty; [[NSS Hindu College, Changanassery|NSS Hindu College]]
| nickname                       =  
| nickname           =  
| map_alt                         =  
| map_alt           =  
| map_caption                     =  
| map_caption       =  
| pushpin_map                     = India Kerala#India
| pushpin_map       = India Kerala#India
| pushpin_label_position         =  
| pushpin_label_position =  
| pushpin_map_alt                 =  
| pushpin_map_alt   =  
| pushpin_map_caption             =  
| pushpin_map_caption =  
| coordinates                     = {{coord|9.466667|N|76.55|E|display=inline,title}}
| coordinates       = {{coord|9.466667|N|76.55|E|display=inline,title}}
| subdivision_type               = Country
| subdivision_type   = Country
| subdivision_name               = {{flag|India}}
| subdivision_name   = {{flag|India}}
| subdivision_type1               = [[States and territories of India|State]]
| subdivision_type1 = [[States and union territories of India|State]]
| subdivision_type2               = [[List of districts of India|District]]
| subdivision_type2 = [[List of districts in India|District]]
| subdivision_name1               = [[Kerala]]
| subdivision_name1 = [[Kerala]]
| subdivision_name2               = [[Kottayam|Kottayam]]
| subdivision_name2 = [[Kottayam]]
| established_title               = <!-- Established -->
| established_title = <!-- Established -->
| established_date               =  
| established_date   =  
| founder                         =  
| founder           =  
| named_for                       =  
| named_for         =  
| government_type                 =  
| government_type   =  
| governing_body                 = Municipality
| governing_body     = Municipality
| leader_title                   = Chairman
| leader_title       = Chairman
| leader_name                     =  
| leader_name       =  
| leader_title1                   = Vice Chairman
| leader_title1     = Vice Chairman
| leader_name1                   =  
| leader_name1       =  
| unit_pref                       = Metric
| unit_pref         = Metric
| area_footnotes                 =  
| area_footnotes     =  
| area_rank                       =  
| area_rank         =  
| area_total_km2                 = 13.5
| area_total_km2     = 13.5
| area_metro_km2                 = 27.8
| area_metro_km2     = 43.8
| population_total               = 47,485
| population_total   = 47,485
| population_as_of               = 2011
| population_as_of   = 2011
| population_rank                 =  
| population_rank   =  
| population_density_km2         = auto
| population_density_km2 = auto
| population_metro               = 127,987
| population_metro   = 127,987
| population_demonym             =  
| population_demonym =  
| population_note                 =  
| population_note   =  
| demographics_type1             = Languages
| demographics_type1 = Languages
| demographics1_title1           = Official
| demographics1_title1 = Official
| demographics1_info1             = [[Malayalam]], English<ref>{{cite web |title=The Kerala Official Language (Legislation) Act, 1969 |url=http://www.lawsofindia.org/pdf/kerala/1969/1969KERALA7.pdf}}</ref>
| demographics1_info1 = [[Malayalam]], English<ref>{{cite web |title=The Kerala Official Language (Legislation) Act, 1969 |url=http://www.lawsofindia.org/pdf/kerala/1969/1969KERALA7.pdf |access-date=10 August 2022 |archive-date=20 April 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160420030352/http://www.lawsofindia.org/pdf/kerala/1969/1969KERALA7.pdf |url-status=usurped }}</ref>
| timezone1                       = [[Indian Standard Time|IST]]
| timezone1         = [[Indian Standard Time|IST]]
| utc_offset1                     = +5:30
| utc_offset1       = +5:30
| elevation_footnotes             =  
| elevation_footnotes =  
| elevation_m                     = 11
| elevation_m       = 11
| postal_code_type               = [[Postal Index Number|PIN]]
| postal_code_type   = [[Postal Index Number|PIN]]
| postal_code                     = 686101
| postal_code       = 686101
| area_code_type                 = Telephone code
| area_code_type     = Telephone code
| area_code                       = 0481
| area_code         = 0481
| registration_plate             = KL 33
| registration_plate = KL 33
| website                         =  
| website           =  
| footnotes                       =  
| footnotes         =  
| official_name                   =  
| official_name     =  
}}
}}


'''Changanassery''', also spelled '''Changanacherry''', {{IPA-ml|t͡ʃɐŋːɐnɐːʃːeːɾi|}} is a municipality in the [[Kottayam district]] of [[Kerala]], [[India]]. It is also the headquarters of the [[Changanassery Taluk]]. The town is spread over an area of {{cvt|14.3|km2}} and has a population of 47,685. Changanassery is located {{cvt|17|km}} south of the district headquarters [[Kottayam]] and {{cvt|117|km}} north of the state capital [[Thiruvananthapuram]].
'''Changanassery''', ({{IPA|ml|t͡ʃɐŋːɐnaːʃeːɾi|IPA}}) [[Renaming of cities in India|formerly]] '''Changanacherry''', is a [[List of urban local bodies in Kerala|municipality]]<ref name="auto1"/> in the [[Kottayam district]] of [[Kerala]], India. It is located {{convert|17|km|1|abbr=on}} south of the district headquarters in [[Kottayam]] and about {{convert|115|km|1|abbr=on}} north of the state capital [[Thiruvananthapuram]]. As per the [[2011 census of India|2011 Indian census]], Changanassery has a population of 47,485 people, and a population density of {{convert|3517|/sqkm|abbr=on}}.


== History ==
Changanassery is an important market town, was historically one of the centres of administration and culture in the [[Central Division (Travancore)|Central Travancore]] region. The Changanassery market, established in AD 1805, served as the main trading point in the transport of rice, pepper, dry ginger, and piece goods between the coastal areas in the west and the mountains of the east. The "Anchu Vilakku" lamps were installed by the locals in 1905 near the boat jetty, and continues to serve as a symbol of the religious and ethnic harmony of the region.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://livelifeveryday.blogspot.com/2017/10/changanacherry-market.html | title=Changanacherry Market }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.onmanorama.com/travel/kerala/2021/11/30/tourism-in-changanasherry-kerala-tourism.html | title=From Anchuvilakku to Vandipetta, Changanassery beckons tourists with heritage sites }}</ref> Changanassery is also famous for [[St. Berchmans College|SB College]], one of the oldest and prestigious institutions established by the [[Catholic Church]] in 1922 and for providing higher education to Travancore Region in Kerala in beginning of 20 th Century. [[St. Berchmans College|The College Tower]] of SB College, with [[Christ the King|Christ The King]] on top of it, continues to stand as symbol for wisdom and education in Kerala.<ref>{{Cite news |author=Staff Reporter |date=2021-06-17 |title=Historic SB college to celebrate 100 years |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/historic-sb-college-to-celebrate-100-years/article34841306.ece/ |access-date=2024-10-04 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Mathews |first=Stephen |date=2020-12-11 |title=ST BERCHMANS COLLEGE : CHRIST KING CAMPUS |url=https://smusings.in/2020/12/11/st-berchmans-college-christ-king-campus/ |access-date=2024-10-04 |website=Stephen Musings |language=en}}</ref>
The first recorded history on the origin of Changanacherry is obtained from Sangam period literature. According to Sangam era documents, Uthiyan [[Cheralatan|Cheralathan]] (Perum Chorru Udiyan Cheralathan, Athan I, or Udiyanjeral - AD c. 130) is the first recorded Kera (Chera) dynasty ruler of the Sangam period in ancient South India. {{sfn|Singh|2008|p=384}}<ref name="sen2">{{Cite book |last=Sen |first=Sailendra |title=A Textbook of Medieval Indian History |publisher=Primus Books |year=2013 |isbn=978-9-38060-734-4 |pages=60–61}}</ref>
 
Historically, Changanassery was a major regional centre, serving as a connecting hub. It also hosted one of the most famous markets in Kerala. The town served as the capital of the [[Thekkumkur|Thekkumkur kingdom]] in the 15th century.
 
From the mid-16th century, Changanassery was annexed into [[Travancore]], and remained a part of it till the formation of the state of Kerala in 1956.


==Administration==
==Administration==
The city is governed by the Changanacherry Municipal Council.Ms Sandhya Manoj is the chairperson of the municipality and the vice chairperson Mr Binu.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.changanasserymunicipality.in/council|title=Changanacherry Municipality|access-date=28 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170301092848/http://www.changanasserymunicipality.in/council|archive-date=1 March 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref>
The city is governed by the Changanacherry Municipal Council.Ms Beena Joby is the chairperson of the municipality and the vice chairperson Mr Mathews George.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.changanasserymunicipality.in/council|title=Changanacherry Municipality|access-date=28 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170301092848/http://www.changanasserymunicipality.in/council|archive-date=1 March 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref>


It heads the taluk Kachery (office). It also heads the Munsiff's court and the judicial first class magistrate's court.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://ecourts.gov.in/Ecourt4|title=Courts in Changanacherry|access-date=28 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170301011430/http://ecourts.gov.in/Ecourt4|archive-date=1 March 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref>
It heads the taluk Kachery (office). It also heads the Munsiff's court and the judicial first class magistrate's court.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://ecourts.gov.in/Ecourt4|title=Courts in Changanacherry|access-date=28 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170301011430/http://ecourts.gov.in/Ecourt4|archive-date=1 March 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref>
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==Geography and climate==
==Geography and climate==
Changanassery has a tropical monsoon climate. There is significant rainfall in most months of the year. The short dry season has little effect on the overall climate. The Köppen-Geiger climate classification is Am. The temperature here averages 26.3 °C. In a year, the average rainfall is about 2979 mm.
Changanassery has a [[tropical monsoon climate]]. There is significant rainfall in most months of the year. The short dry season has little effect on the overall climate. The [[Köppen climate classification|Köppen-Geiger climate classification]] is ''Am''. The temperature here averages {{convert|26.3|°C|disp=or}}. In a year, the average rainfall is about {{convert|2979|mm|in|0|disp=or}}.
{{Weather box|location=Thiruvalla|metric first=yes|single line=yes|Jan high C=31|Feb high C=32.7|Mar high C=33.4|Apr high C=32.1|May high C=30.3|Jun high C=28.4|Jul high C=28.1|Aug high C=28.1|Sep high C=28.6|Oct high C=28.9|Nov high C=29|Dec high C=29.6|Jan low C=26.3|Feb low C=27.5|Mar low C=28.4|Apr low C=27.9|May low C=27|Jun low C=25.7|Jul low C=25.3|Aug low C=25.3|Sep low C=25.6|Oct low C=25.7|Nov low C=25.7|Dec low C=25.8|Jan precipitation mm=22|Feb precipitation mm=26|Mar precipitation mm=67|Apr precipitation mm=167|May precipitation mm=346|Jun precipitation mm=530|Jul precipitation mm=497|Aug precipitation mm=401|Sep precipitation mm=305|Oct precipitation mm=324|Nov precipitation mm=222|Dec precipitation mm=72|source=http://en.climate-data.org/location/44308}}
{{Weather box|location=Changanassery|metric first=yes|single line=yes|Jan high C=31|Feb high C=32.7|Mar high C=33.4|Apr high C=32.1|May high C=30.3|Jun high C=28.4|Jul high C=28.1|Aug high C=28.1|Sep high C=28.6|Oct high C=28.9|Nov high C=29|Dec high C=29.6|Jan low C=26.3|Feb low C=27.5|Mar low C=28.4|Apr low C=27.9|May low C=27|Jun low C=25.7|Jul low C=25.3|Aug low C=25.3|Sep low C=25.6|Oct low C=25.7|Nov low C=25.7|Dec low C=25.8|rain colour = green|Jan rain mm=22|Feb rain mm=26|Mar rain mm=67|Apr rain mm=167|May rain mm=346|Jun rain mm=530|Jul rain mm=497|Aug rain mm=401|Sep rain mm=305|Oct rain mm=324|Nov rain mm=222|Dec rain mm=72|source={{cite web|website=Climate Data|url=http://en.climate-data.org/location/44308|title=Changanassery Climate}}}}


== Demographics ==
== Demographics ==
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}}
}}
The Indian census collects statistics for both the Changanassery municipality and the Changanassery Urban Agglomeration (including its surrounding built-up areas). The Changanassery UA includes areas outside the municipality, such as [[Thengana]], Veroor, and Thrikodithanam.
The Indian census collects statistics for both the Changanassery municipality and the Changanassery Urban Agglomeration (including its surrounding panchayat areas). The Changanassery UA includes Changanassery municipality as well as neighbouring panchayats like [[Paippad]], [[Thrikodithanam]] and [[Chethipuzha]] in Vazhapilly panchayat.


As of the [[2011 Indian census]] Changanassery municipality has a population of 47,485, an 8.2% decline from the 51,967 registered in 2011. Of this, 48.13% are male and 51.86% are female. The total population of the Changanassery UA is 127,987, of which 48.29% are male and 51.71% are female.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.citypopulation.de/en/india/kerala/|title=Kerala (India): Districts, Cities and Towns - Population Statistics, Charts and Map|website=www.citypopulation.de}}</ref><ref name="auto">{{cite web|url=http://www.censusindia.net/results/town.php?stad=A&state5=999|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040616075334/http://www.censusindia.net/results/town.php?stad=A&state5=999|archive-date=2004-06-16|title= Census of India 2011: Data from the 2011 Census, including cities, villages and towns (Provisional)|access-date=2008-11-01|publisher= Census Commission of India}}</ref> The percentage of children below the age of 6 was 8.9% in Changanassery and 9.02% in the Changanassery UA. The literacy rate of Changanassery in 2011 was 97.19% (98.01% for males and 96.45% for females), which was higher than the state average of 94% and the national average of 74.04%. The literacy rate of the Changanassery UA in 2011 was 97.56% (98.19% for males and 96.98% for females)
As of the [[2011 Indian census]] Changanassery municipality has a population of 47,485, an 8.2% decline from the 51,967 registered in 2001. Of this, 48.13% are male and 51.86% are female. The total population of the Changanassery UA is 127,987, of which 48.29% are male and 51.71% are female.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.citypopulation.de/en/india/kerala/|title=Kerala (India): Districts, Cities and Towns - Population Statistics, Charts and Map|website=www.citypopulation.de}}</ref><ref name="auto">{{cite web|url=http://www.censusindia.net/results/town.php?stad=A&state5=999|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040616075334/http://www.censusindia.net/results/town.php?stad=A&state5=999|archive-date=2004-06-16|title= Census of India 2011: Data from the 2011 Census, including cities, villages and towns (Provisional)|access-date=2008-11-01|publisher= Census Commission of India}}</ref> The percentage of children below the age of 6 was 8.9% in Changanassery and 9.02% in the Changanassery UA. The literacy rate of Changanassery in 2011 was 97.19% (98.01% for males and 96.45% for females), which was higher than the state average of 94% and the national average of 74.04%. The literacy rate of the Changanassery UA in 2011 was 97.56% (98.19% for males and 96.98% for females).


===Religion===
===Religion===
{{bar box
{{Pie chart
|thumb=left
|thumb = right
|title=Religion in Changanassery (2011)<ref name="census2011">{{cite web |title=Population by religion community – 2011 |url=https://www.censusindia.com/towns/thiruvalla-population-pathanamthitta-kerala-803303}}</ref>
|caption = '''Religion in Changanassery''' (2011)<ref name="census_2011_religion">[https://censusindia.gov.in/nada/index.php/catalog/11379/download/14492/DDW32C-01%20MDDS.XLS Census data] censusindia.gov.in</ref>
|titlebar=#ddd
|label1 = [[Hinduism in Kerala|Hinduism]]
|left1=Religion
|value1 = 48.05
|right1=percent
|color1 = darkorange
|float=right
|label2 = [[Christianity in Kerala|Christianity]]
|bars=
|value2 = 34.67
{{bar percent|Hinduism|darkorange|48.05}}
|color2 = Blue
{{bar percent|Christianity|blue|34.67}}
|label3 = [[Islam in Kerala|Islam]]
{{bar percent|Islam|Green|17}}
|value3 = 17
{{bar percent|Irreligion|Grey|0.23}}
|color3 = Green
{{bar percent|Others|black|0.04}}
|label4 = None
|value4 = 0.23
|color4 = black
|label5 = Other
|value5 = 0.04
|color5 = grey
}}
}}
According to the 2011 census, [[Hinduism in Kerala|Hindus]] are the plurality with 48% of the population adhering to the religion. [[Christianity in Kerala|Christians]] form a significant minority, constituting 35% of the population. [[Islam in Kerala|Muslims]] constitute 17% of the population.<ref>[http://www.census2011.co.in/data/town/803303-thiruvalla-kerala.html Census of India – Thiruvalla City population Religion data]</ref>
According to the 2011 census, [[Hinduism in Kerala|Hindus]] are the plurality, with 48% of the population adhering to the religion. [[Christianity in Kerala|Christians]] form a significant minority, constituting 35% of the population. [[Islam in Kerala|Muslims]] constitute 17% of the population.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.census2011.co.in/data/town/803303-thiruvalla-kerala.html|title=Thiruvalla Municipality City Population Census 2011-2024 &#124; Kerala|website=www.census2011.co.in}}</ref>


The headquarters of the [[Nair Service Society]], an organisation created for the social advancement and welfare of the Nair community of Hindus, is located in Perunna. Changanassery is also the centre of the [[Syro-Malabar Catholic Archeparchy of Changanacherry|Archdiocese of Changanassery]], one of the largest dioceses of the Syro-Malabar Catholic church in India.
The headquarters of the [[Nair Service Society]], an organization created for the social advancement and welfare of the Nair community of Hindus, is located in Perunna. Changanassery is also the center of the [[Syro-Malabar Catholic Archeparchy of Changanacherry|Archdiocese of Changanassery]], one of the largest dioceses of the Syro-Malabar Catholic church in India.


== Education ==
== Education ==
There was a Vedic school at Vazhappally Salagramam (Vazhappally Shala) in ancient times during the rule of the [[Thekkumkur]]. It was run exclusively for Brahmins. It is the oldest educational institution in Changanassery on record. The Vazhappally Sala was destroyed by army of Ramayyan Dalawa during the [[Battle of Changanassery]] between Thekkumkur and Travancore in 1790.<ref>Shungoonny Menon - A HISTORY OF TRAVANCORE - First edition: 1878, New edition: 1983, Page 130, 131 - {{ISBN|8170200407|8120601696}}</ref>
There was a Vedic school at Vazhappally Salagramam (Vazhappally Shala) in ancient times during the rule of the [[Thekkumkur]]. It was run exclusively for Brahmins. It is the oldest educational institution in Changanassery on record. The Vazhappally Sala was destroyed by the army of Ramayyan Dalawa during the [[Battle of Changanassery]] between Thekkumkur and Travancore in 1790.<ref>Shungoonny Menon - A HISTORY OF TRAVANCORE - First edition: 1878, New edition: 1983, Page 130, 131 - {{ISBN|8170200407|8120601696}}</ref>


# [[St. Berchmans College]], Changanassery (June 19, 1922); The college was initially started in a building (now it is a museum) near to St. Mary's Parel Church. It was a junior college affiliated to Madras University. In 1927, graduate courses were started. Travencore University was founded on November 1, 1937 to which the college was then affiliated. Postgraduate courses were started in 1957. St. Berchmans College situated in Changanacherry , Kottayam District, Kerala, is an independent instructive organization associated to Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam. This establishment was established in 1922 and is perceived under the UGC Act, 1956. In the fourth pattern of accreditation in 2017-2022, the school was evaluated at A by the NAAC. It was positioned 79 in All India Ranking by [[National Institutional Ranking Framework]] (NIRF) in 2020 in the class of College.
# [[St. Berchmans Higher Secondary School|St Berchmans Higher Secondary School]], Changanassery (1891); One of the oldest residential high schools in Kerala, (then known as) St Berchmans English High School was established by [[Charles Lavigne|Fr Charles Lavigne]] and clergy of Catholic Church in 1891. Even though made for [[Seminary|Seminarians]], the school, soon, was made for public. In 1998 the High School was promoted to Higher Secondary School providing both [[Primary education|primary]] and [[secondary education]]. Cardinals such as [[Antony Padiyara]] and [[George Alencherry]] and archbishops such as [[Joseph Powathil]] and [[Joseph Perumthottam]] are alumni of the school.
# [[NSS Hindu College, Changanassery]] (June 1949); The college was started in the rooms provided at the N.S.S. High School and it was shifted to a new building subsequently in 1955. NSS Hindu College, Changanassery, one of the biggest and most seasoned establishments of advanced education in Kerala. Set up in 1947, it is licensed from UGC, NAAC and it is associated to Mahatma Gandhi University. NSS, Changanassery offers 30 courses across 5 streams specifically Vocational, Arts, Hotel Management, Science, Commerce and Banking and across 8 degrees like BA, BSc, B.Com, MA, MSc. Hostel office isn't accessible for its understudies.
# [[St. Berchmans College]], Changanassery (19 June 1922); One of the top ten oldest colleges in Kerala, St Berchmans College was initially started in a building (now a museum) near to St. Mary's Parel Church in 1922 by [[Thomas Kurialacherry]] on the [[cornerstone]] laid by [[Charles Lavigne]] with the help of the [[Catholic Church]] and the [[Travancore royal family]]. It was a junior college affiliated to Madras University. In 1927, graduate courses were started. Travancore University was founded on 1 November 1937 to which the college was then affiliated. Postgraduate courses were started in 1957. Now it is affiliated to Mahatma Gandhi University Kottayam. St. Berchmans College situated in Changanacherry, Kottayam District, Kerala, is an independent instructive (Autonomous) organization associated to Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam. This establishment was established in 1922 and is perceived under the UGC Act, 1956. In the fifth pattern of accreditation in 2022, the school was evaluated at A+ by the NAAC. It was positioned 54 in All India Ranking by [[National Institutional Ranking Framework]] (NIRF) in 2022 in the class of College. The college is known for its Victorian architecture, especially the College Tower, and for its alumni such as [[Prem Nazir]], [[Oommen Chandy]], [[Thomas Tharayil (archbishop of Changanassery)|Thomas Tharayil]] and so on.
# [[Assumption College, Changanasserry]] (1950); This college dedicated for Women. Assumption College, affiliated to University of Kerala in 1949, is at present affiliated to Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam. Included under section 2(f) and 12 B of the UGC Act, the College was accredited by the NAAC in the year 2000.  
# [[NSS Hindu College, Changanassery]] (June 1949); The college was started in the rooms provided at the N.S.S. High School and was shifted to a new building in 1955. Set up in 1947, it is licensed from UGC, NAAC, and is associated with Mahatma Gandhi University. NSS, Changanassery offers 30 courses across 5 streams specifically Vocational, Arts, Hotel Management, Science, Commerce and Banking and across 8 degrees like BA, BSc, B.Com, MA, MSc.
# [[NSS Training College, Changanacherry]]
# Assumption College, Changanasserry (1950); women's college. Assumption College, affiliated to University of Kerala in 1949, is at present affiliated to Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam. Included under section 2(f) and 12 B of the UGC Act, the College was accredited by the NAAC in the year 2000.


== Notable people ==
== Notable people ==
<!---♦♦♦♦ Only add a person to this list if they already have their own article on the English Wikipedia ♦♦♦♦--->
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* [[Joseph Powathil|Mar. Joseph Powathil]]
* [[Joseph Powathil|Mar. Joseph Powathil]]
* [[George Alencherry|Mar George Alencherry]]
* [[George Alencherry|Mar George Alencherry]]
* [[Joseph Perumthottam|Mar Joseph Perumthottam]]
* [[Alummoodan]]
* [[Alummoodan]]
* [[L. A. Ravi Varma|Dr. L.A. Ravi Varma]]
* [[L. A. Ravi Varma|Dr. L.A. Ravi Varma]]
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* [[C.F Thomas]]  
* [[C.F Thomas]]  
* [[Roshan Mathew]]
* [[Roshan Mathew]]
* [[Neville Thomas]]
}}
}}
<!---♦♦♦♦ Only add a person to this list if they already have their own article on the English Wikipedia ♦♦♦♦--->
<!---♦♦♦♦ Only add a person to this list if they already have their own article on the English Bharatpedia ♦♦♦♦--->
<!---♦♦♦♦ Please keep the list in alphabetical order by LAST NAME ♦♦♦♦--->
<!---♦♦♦♦ Please keep the list in alphabetical order by LAST NAME ♦♦♦♦--->


==See also==
==See also==
*[[Thottackad]]
*[[Thottackad]]
*[[Palayam, Thiruvananthapuram|Palayam]]
*[[Karukachal]]


== References ==
== References ==
Line 198: Line 200:


== External links ==
== External links ==
 
{{Commons category}}
* [http://www.changanachery.com/ About Changanacherry]
* [http://www.changanachery.com/ About Changanacherry] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110709061155/http://www.changanachery.com/ |date=9 July 2011 }}
* [http://www.archdiocesechanganacherry.org/ Archdiocese of Changanacherry]
* [http://www.archdiocesechanganacherry.org/ Archdiocese of Changanacherry]
* [http://www.nsshinducollege.org/ NSS HINDU COLLEGE CHANGANACHERRY]
* [http://www.nsshinducollege.org/ NSS HINDU COLLEGE CHANGANACHERRY]
* [http://www.sjcc.co.in St Joseph College of Communication]
* [http://www.sjcc.co.in St Joseph College of Communication]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20120504174513/http://www.sbcollege.org/index.php St. Berchmans College]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20120504174513/http://www.sbcollege.org/index.php St. Berchmans College]
* [http://www.changanasserymunicipality.in/ Changanassery Municipality]
* [http://www.changanasserymunicipality.in/ Changanassery Municipality] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211214183512/https://www.changanasserymunicipality.in/ |date=14 December 2021 }}


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[[Category:Changanassery| ]]
[[Category:Changanassery| ]]
[[Category:Articles containing potentially dated statements from 2001]]
[[Category:All articles containing potentially dated statements]]
[[Category:Cities and towns in Kottayam district]]
[[Category:Cities and towns in Kottayam district]]
[[Category:Tourist attractions in Kottayam district]]
[[Category:Tourist attractions in Kottayam district]]
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[[Category:Kingdom of Thekkumkur]]
[[Category:Kingdom of Thekkumkur]]
[[Category:Culture of Kerala]]
[[Category:Culture of Kerala]]
[[Category:Former capital cities in India]]
[[Category:Former capitals in India]]
[[Category:Historical Indian regions]]

Latest revision as of 18:40, 17 March 2026


Changanassery
Changanacherry
Clockwise, top to bottom: St. Berchmans College; The Anchuviḷakku; Iḷamkavu Devi Temple; The boat jetty; NSS Hindu College
Changanassery is located in Kerala
Changanassery
Changanassery
Changanassery is located in India
Changanassery
Changanassery
Coordinates: 9°28′00″N 76°33′00″E / 9.466667°N 76.55°E / 9.466667; 76.55
Country India
StateKerala
DistrictKottayam
Government
 • BodyMunicipality
Area
 • Municipality[1]13.5 km2 (5.2 sq mi)
 • Metro
43.8 km2 (16.9 sq mi)
Elevation
11 m (36 ft)
Population
 (2011)
 • Municipality[1]47,485
 • Density3,500/km2 (9,100/sq mi)
 • Metro
127,987
Languages
 • OfficialMalayalam, English[2]
Time zoneUTC+5:30 (IST)
PIN
686101
Telephone code0481
Vehicle registrationKL 33

Changanassery, (ml) formerly Changanacherry, is a municipality[1] in the Kottayam district of Kerala, India. It is located 17 km (10.6 mi) south of the district headquarters in Kottayam and about 115 km (71.5 mi) north of the state capital Thiruvananthapuram. As per the 2011 Indian census, Changanassery has a population of 47,485 people, and a population density of 3,517/km2 (9,110/sq mi).

Changanassery is an important market town, was historically one of the centres of administration and culture in the Central Travancore region. The Changanassery market, established in AD 1805, served as the main trading point in the transport of rice, pepper, dry ginger, and piece goods between the coastal areas in the west and the mountains of the east. The "Anchu Vilakku" lamps were installed by the locals in 1905 near the boat jetty, and continues to serve as a symbol of the religious and ethnic harmony of the region.[3][4] Changanassery is also famous for SB College, one of the oldest and prestigious institutions established by the Catholic Church in 1922 and for providing higher education to Travancore Region in Kerala in beginning of 20 th Century. The College Tower of SB College, with Christ The King on top of it, continues to stand as symbol for wisdom and education in Kerala.[5][6]

Administration[edit | edit source]

The city is governed by the Changanacherry Municipal Council.Ms Beena Joby is the chairperson of the municipality and the vice chairperson Mr Mathews George.[7]

It heads the taluk Kachery (office). It also heads the Munsiff's court and the judicial first class magistrate's court.[8] Changanacherry assembly constituency was a part of Kottayam (Lok Sabha constituency).[9] However, after the Delimitation Commission's Report in 2005, in order to retain Mavelikkara Lok Sabha Constituency, Changanacherry segment in Kottayam and the neighbouring constituencies in Alappuzha and Kollam districts were put together under Mavelikkara constituency. Sri. Kodikunnil Suresh represents Mavelikkara constituency in Parliament and Sri. Job Michael represents Changanacherry Constituency in the Kerala Legislative Assembly now.

Geography and climate[edit | edit source]

Changanassery has a tropical monsoon climate. There is significant rainfall in most months of the year. The short dry season has little effect on the overall climate. The Köppen-Geiger climate classification is Am. The temperature here averages 26.3 °C or 79.3 °F. In a year, the average rainfall is about 2,979 millimetres or 117 inches.

Climate data for Changanassery
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Average high °C (°F) 31
(88)
32.7
(90.9)
33.4
(92.1)
32.1
(89.8)
30.3
(86.5)
28.4
(83.1)
28.1
(82.6)
28.1
(82.6)
28.6
(83.5)
28.9
(84.0)
29
(84)
29.6
(85.3)
30.0
(86.0)
Average low °C (°F) 26.3
(79.3)
27.5
(81.5)
28.4
(83.1)
27.9
(82.2)
27
(81)
25.7
(78.3)
25.3
(77.5)
25.3
(77.5)
25.6
(78.1)
25.7
(78.3)
25.7
(78.3)
25.8
(78.4)
26.4
(79.5)
Average rainfall mm (inches) 22
(0.9)
26
(1.0)
67
(2.6)
167
(6.6)
346
(13.6)
530
(20.9)
497
(19.6)
401
(15.8)
305
(12.0)
324
(12.8)
222
(8.7)
72
(2.8)
2,979
(117.3)
Source: "Changanassery Climate". Climate Data.

Demographics[edit | edit source]

Historical population
YearPop.±%
190114,264—    
191117,242+20.9%
192118,955+9.9%
193124,201+27.7%
194128,381+17.3%
195136,289+27.9%
196142,376+16.8%
197148,545+14.6%
198151,955+7.0%
199152,455+1.0%
200151,967−0.9%
201147,685−8.2%

The Indian census collects statistics for both the Changanassery municipality and the Changanassery Urban Agglomeration (including its surrounding panchayat areas). The Changanassery UA includes Changanassery municipality as well as neighbouring panchayats like Paippad, Thrikodithanam and Chethipuzha in Vazhapilly panchayat.

As of the 2011 Indian census Changanassery municipality has a population of 47,485, an 8.2% decline from the 51,967 registered in 2001. Of this, 48.13% are male and 51.86% are female. The total population of the Changanassery UA is 127,987, of which 48.29% are male and 51.71% are female.[10][11] The percentage of children below the age of 6 was 8.9% in Changanassery and 9.02% in the Changanassery UA. The literacy rate of Changanassery in 2011 was 97.19% (98.01% for males and 96.45% for females), which was higher than the state average of 94% and the national average of 74.04%. The literacy rate of the Changanassery UA in 2011 was 97.56% (98.19% for males and 96.98% for females).

Religion[edit | edit source]

Religion in Changanassery (2011)[12]

  Hinduism (48.05%)
  Christianity (34.67%)
  Islam (17%)
  None (0.23%)
  Other (0.04%)

According to the 2011 census, Hindus are the plurality, with 48% of the population adhering to the religion. Christians form a significant minority, constituting 35% of the population. Muslims constitute 17% of the population.[13]

The headquarters of the Nair Service Society, an organization created for the social advancement and welfare of the Nair community of Hindus, is located in Perunna. Changanassery is also the center of the Archdiocese of Changanassery, one of the largest dioceses of the Syro-Malabar Catholic church in India.

Education[edit | edit source]

There was a Vedic school at Vazhappally Salagramam (Vazhappally Shala) in ancient times during the rule of the Thekkumkur. It was run exclusively for Brahmins. It is the oldest educational institution in Changanassery on record. The Vazhappally Sala was destroyed by the army of Ramayyan Dalawa during the Battle of Changanassery between Thekkumkur and Travancore in 1790.[14]

  1. St Berchmans Higher Secondary School, Changanassery (1891); One of the oldest residential high schools in Kerala, (then known as) St Berchmans English High School was established by Fr Charles Lavigne and clergy of Catholic Church in 1891. Even though made for Seminarians, the school, soon, was made for public. In 1998 the High School was promoted to Higher Secondary School providing both primary and secondary education. Cardinals such as Antony Padiyara and George Alencherry and archbishops such as Joseph Powathil and Joseph Perumthottam are alumni of the school.
  2. St. Berchmans College, Changanassery (19 June 1922); One of the top ten oldest colleges in Kerala, St Berchmans College was initially started in a building (now a museum) near to St. Mary's Parel Church in 1922 by Thomas Kurialacherry on the cornerstone laid by Charles Lavigne with the help of the Catholic Church and the Travancore royal family. It was a junior college affiliated to Madras University. In 1927, graduate courses were started. Travancore University was founded on 1 November 1937 to which the college was then affiliated. Postgraduate courses were started in 1957. Now it is affiliated to Mahatma Gandhi University Kottayam. St. Berchmans College situated in Changanacherry, Kottayam District, Kerala, is an independent instructive (Autonomous) organization associated to Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam. This establishment was established in 1922 and is perceived under the UGC Act, 1956. In the fifth pattern of accreditation in 2022, the school was evaluated at A+ by the NAAC. It was positioned 54 in All India Ranking by National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) in 2022 in the class of College. The college is known for its Victorian architecture, especially the College Tower, and for its alumni such as Prem Nazir, Oommen Chandy, Thomas Tharayil and so on.
  3. NSS Hindu College, Changanassery (June 1949); The college was started in the rooms provided at the N.S.S. High School and was shifted to a new building in 1955. Set up in 1947, it is licensed from UGC, NAAC, and is associated with Mahatma Gandhi University. NSS, Changanassery offers 30 courses across 5 streams specifically Vocational, Arts, Hotel Management, Science, Commerce and Banking and across 8 degrees like BA, BSc, B.Com, MA, MSc.
  4. Assumption College, Changanasserry (1950); women's college. Assumption College, affiliated to University of Kerala in 1949, is at present affiliated to Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam. Included under section 2(f) and 12 B of the UGC Act, the College was accredited by the NAAC in the year 2000.

Notable people[edit | edit source]

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. 1.0 1.1 https://lsgkerala.gov.in/system/files/2017-10/localbodies.pdf Template:Bare URL PDF
  2. "The Kerala Official Language (Legislation) Act, 1969" (PDF). Archived from the original on 20 April 2016. Retrieved 10 August 2022.
  3. "Changanacherry Market".
  4. "From Anchuvilakku to Vandipetta, Changanassery beckons tourists with heritage sites".
  5. Staff Reporter (17 June 2021). "Historic SB college to celebrate 100 years". The Hindu. ISSN 0971-751X. Retrieved 4 October 2024.
  6. Mathews, Stephen (11 December 2020). "ST BERCHMANS COLLEGE : CHRIST KING CAMPUS". Stephen Musings. Retrieved 4 October 2024.
  7. "Changanacherry Municipality". Archived from the original on 1 March 2017. Retrieved 28 February 2017.
  8. "Courts in Changanacherry". Archived from the original on 1 March 2017. Retrieved 28 February 2017.
  9. "Assembly Constituencies - Corresponding Districts and Parliamentary Constituencies" (PDF). Kerala. Election Commission of India. Archived from the original (PDF) on 30 October 2008. Retrieved 19 October 2008.
  10. "Kerala (India): Districts, Cities and Towns - Population Statistics, Charts and Map". www.citypopulation.de.
  11. "Census of India 2011: Data from the 2011 Census, including cities, villages and towns (Provisional)". Census Commission of India. Archived from the original on 16 June 2004. Retrieved 1 November 2008.
  12. Census data censusindia.gov.in
  13. "Thiruvalla Municipality City Population Census 2011-2024 | Kerala". www.census2011.co.in.
  14. Shungoonny Menon - A HISTORY OF TRAVANCORE - First edition: 1878, New edition: 1983, Page 130, 131 - ISBN 8170200407, 8120601696

Bibliography[edit | edit source]

External links[edit | edit source]