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{{Infobox settlement
{{Infobox settlement
| name                    = Ettumanoor
| name                    = Ettumanoor
| other_name              = Ettumanur
| native_name            =  
| nickname                =  
| nickname                =  
| settlement_type        = [[Municipality]]
| settlement_type        = [[Municipalities of Kerala|Municipality]]<ref>https://lsgkerala.gov.in/system/files/2017-10/localbodies.pdf {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180417130137/http://lsgkerala.gov.in/system/files/2017-10/localbodies.pdf |date=17 April 2018 }} {{Bare URL PDF|date=August 2024}}</ref>
| image_skyline          = File:Ettumanoor Temple North Gate Entrance.JPG
| image_skyline          = File:Ettumanoor Temple North Gate Entrance.JPG
| image_alt              =  
| image_alt              =  
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| area_footnotes          =  
| area_footnotes          =  
| area_rank              =  
| area_rank              =  
| area_total_km2          = 24.78
| area_total_km2          = 27.8
| elevation_footnotes    =  
| elevation_footnotes    =  
| elevation_m            = 4
| elevation_m            = 4
| population_total        = 26423
| population_total        = 51,129
| population_as_of        = 2011
| population_as_of        = 2011
| population_rank        =  
| population_rank        =  
| population_density_km2  = auto
| population_density_km2  = auto
| population_demonym      =  
| population_demonym      =  
| population_footnotes    =  
| population_footnotes    = <ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ettumanoorcds.com/ettumanoor-muncipality |title=Ettumanoor municipality - At a glance}}</ref>
| demographics_type1      = Languages
| demographics_type1      = Languages
| demographics1_title1    = Official
| demographics1_title1    = Official
| demographics1_info1    = [[Malayalam language|Malayalam]], [[English language|English]]
| demographics1_info1    = [[Malayalam language|Malayalam]], English  
| timezone1              = [[Indian Standard Time|IST]]
| timezone1              = [[Indian Standard Time|IST]]
| utc_offset1            = +5:30
| utc_offset1            = +5:30
| postal_code_type        = [[Postal Index Number|PIN]]
| postal_code_type        = [[Postal Index Number|PIN]]
| postal_code            = 686631
| postal_code            = 686631
| registration_plate      = KL-05 KL-88
| registration_plate      = KL-05  
| blank1_name_sec1        = Nearest city
| blank1_name_sec1        = Nearest city
| blank1_info_sec1        = [[Kottayam]]
| blank1_info_sec1        = [[Kottayam]]
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| footnotes              =  
| footnotes              =  
}}
}}
'''Ettumanoor''', sometimes spelled '''Ettumanur''', is a major town and [[municipality]] in the [[Kottayam|Kottayam district]] of [[Kerala]], [[India]], located 11 kilometers north-east of [[Kottayam]] city, 50 kilometers south of [[Cochin]], and 70 kilometers south of [[Cochin International Airport]]. The SH-1 popularly known as the Main Central (MC) Road, passes through Ettumanoor, and is a major connecting link between [[Pala, Kerala|Pala]] and beyond, to the Western Ghats and to the commercial capital of Kerala - [[Kochi, India|Kochi]]. Ettumanoor is en route to the tourist destinations at [[Wagamon]] and [[Poonjar]].


== Etymology ==
'''Ettumanoor''' ({{IPA|ml|eːt̪uːmaːnuːr|}}) is a [[List of urban local bodies in Kerala|municipality]] in the [[Kottayam district]] of [[Kerala]], [[India]].<ref>https://lsgkerala.gov.in/system/files/2017-10/localbodies.pdf {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180417130137/http://lsgkerala.gov.in/system/files/2017-10/localbodies.pdf |date=17 April 2018 }} {{Bare URL PDF|date=August 2024}}</ref> It is located approximately {{convert|10|km|1|abbr=on}} north of the district headquarters at [[Kottayam]] and about {{convert|163|km|1|abbr=on}} north of the state capital, [[Thiruvananthapuram]]. According to the [[2011 census of India|2011 Indian census]], Ettumanoor has a population of 51,129 and a population density of {{convert|1839|/sqkm|abbr=on}}.
 
== Etymology ==  
{{Unreferenced-section|date=October 2020}}
{{Unreferenced-section|date=October 2020}}
The name of the place had its mythological origin from the word 'man oor' in [[Malayalam]], which means the place of deer as 'maan' means deer and 'oor' means place. Another version is that the name originated from the 'Ettu Mana Ooru', ie, 'The Land of Eight Namboothiri Manas' or 'Ashta Grihas'. These Eight Manas (Brahmin families) are the original Ooralans of great  Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple.Ettumanoor is a historical place as myths have said that the [[Pandavas]] and the sage [[Vyasa]] had established the famous Ettumanoor Mahadeva temple here.


==Transportation==
The name ''Ettumanoor'' is traditionally explained through several local and mythological interpretations. One interpretation traces the name to the [[Malayalam]] words ''maan'' (deer) and ''ooru'' (place), meaning "place of deer". Another version suggests that the name is derived from ''Ettu Mana Ooru'', meaning "the land of eight manas", referring to eight Namboothiri Brahmin households (''Ashta Grihas'') who are traditionally regarded as the original ''ooralans'' (trustees) of the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple.
 
It is also believed that Lord [[Shiva]] appeared at this place (''ooru'') in eight (''ettu'') different forms, which contributed to the name Ettumanoor.<ref>{{Cite web |title=ETTUMANOOR MAHADEVA TEMPLE |url=https://ettumanoormahadevatemple.com/ |access-date=2025-12-24 |website=ettumanoormahadevatemple.com}}</ref>
 
According to local tradition, Ettumanoor is considered a historically significant site, with myths stating that the [[Pandava|Pandavas]] and the sage [[Vyasa]] were associated with the establishment of the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple.
 
== Transportation ==  
{{Unreferenced-section|date=October 2020}}
{{Unreferenced-section|date=October 2020}}
[[File:Ettumanoor Junction.JPG|thumb|Ettumanoor main junction]]
[[File:Ettumanoor Junction.JPG|thumb|Ettumanoor main junction]]
The town has two bus stands. A KSRTC station master office with bus station and a well built private bus stand. All Deluxe, Express and interstate buses stop here. Direct buses are available to all places including Bangalore, Mangalore, Theni, Cumbum, Velankanni, Palani, Madurai, Tuticorin, Kanyakumari, Salem and Coimbatore. The bus stands are close and a big market is sandwiched between the bus stands, this has made Ettumanoor a convenient shopping place. Two state highways are crossing each other in the town and another two are starting from the town. This makes the town an important changing point for the commuters.
Recent development in the nearby areas / start up of new institutions in the neighbour hood and easiness in conveyance has made the town the dearest location for migration. This has led to an increase in the population and change in demography.


==Economy==
Ettumanoor has two bus stands: a [[Kerala State Road Transport Corporation]] (KSRTC) station master's office with an adjoining bus station, and a privately operated bus stand. Deluxe, express, and inter-state buses halt at the town. Direct bus services are available to several destinations, including [[Bengaluru|Bangalore]], [[Mangaluru|Mangalore]], [[Theni]], [[Cumbum, Tamil Nadu|Cumbum]], [[Velankanni]], [[Palani]], [[Madurai]], [[Thoothukudi|Tuticorin]], [[Kanyakumari]], [[Salem, Tamil Nadu|Salem]], and [[Coimbatore]].
 
The two bus stands are located close to each other, with a large market situated between them, contributing to Ettumanoor's role as a local commercial centre. Two state highways intersect within the town, and two additional highways originate from it, making Ettumanoor an important transit point for commuters in the region.
 
== Economy ==  
{{Unreferenced-section|date=October 2020}}
{{Unreferenced-section|date=October 2020}}
Industrial Estate under the government of Kerala and Government of India Production center are major industrial centres in Ettumanoor. It is the only industrial estate in Kerala under the Ministry of Labor, Govt. of India. Rolling shutters, Bakery items, Rubber products, wood products etc. are main products.


Ettumanoor was the main centre of building material trade since the 1950s in central Travancore. N T Paul and company was established in 1946 in Ettumanoor. Nearby areas of the town like cheruvandoor, koodalloor and kothanallor are known for production of vegetables. Places in the east and south like kattachira and kandanchira are known for pottery and bricks. During first half of last century Ettumaoor was known for trading and some people like Hassan Rawther known as a trader.
Ettumanoor hosts an industrial estate under the Government of Kerala, along with a production centre under the Government of India, which together form the town's principal industrial facilities. The industrial estate is noted as the only such facility in Kerala functioning under the Ministry of Labour, Government of India. The main products manufactured in the area include rolling shutters, bakery items, rubber products, and wood-based products.


There is one big fish market opening  daily from early morning of 4.00 AM behind Private Bus Stand stand of Ettumanoor town under the control of Ettumanoor Municipal Corporation. There is another big vegetable market functions at Peroor Junction of Ettumanoor. One Supplyco [[Kerala State Civil Supplies Corporation]] store also functions at Peroor Junction which offers consumable goods to public at subsidized prices.
Since the 1950s, Ettumanoor has also been recognised as a major centre for the trade of building materials in the [[Central Division (Travancore)|Central Travancore]] region.
There are number of Marriage halls like Sree Shylam, Nandavanam and Thomson Kaylas, functioning in Ettumanoor for arranging marriage functions. A newly constructed multiplex cinema theatre by United Global Media a.k.a. UGM Entertainments is located at Court Junction. The theatre is rated to have 4K projector system on one screen with seating capacity of @70, and another 2 screens with 2K projector system, which all of these are Dolby Atmos certified.


== Education ==
== Education ==  
{{Unreferenced-section|date=October 2020}}
{{Unreferenced-section|date=October 2020}}
The Mahatma Gandhi University which was established on 2 October 1983 is situated in Athirampuzha  6.7&nbsp;km southwest of the town. An industrial training institute called ITI, a Government Boys' H.S., Girls' model High School and a Teachers Training School and lower primary school are the government educational institutions and SFS Public School and Junior College, Shree Vidyadhiraja Higher Secondary School, Ebenezer International Residential School are the privately run ones. Town U.P.S School is Pvt. Aided and Established in 1918 is the oldest one. Colleges in Ettumanoor affiliated to M G University are the Mangalam Campus and [[Ettumanoorappan College, Ettumanoor]]. There is more than dozen of colleges and professional institutions in Ettumanoor constituency. Ettumanoor is the headquarters of Kerala Chuvar Chithra Kala Kendram (Govt. of Kerala).


==Hospitals ==
[[Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala|Mahatma Gandhi University]], established on 2 October 1983, is located at Athirampuzha, approximately {{convert|6.7|km|1|abbr=on}} south-west of Ettumanoor. Government-run educational institutions in the town include an Industrial Training Institute (ITI), a Government Boys' Higher Secondary School, a Government Girls' Model High School, a Teachers' Training School, and a Lower Primary School.
 
Privately managed institutions include SFS Public School and Junior College, Shree Vidyadhiraja Higher Secondary School, and Ebenezer International Residential School. The Town U.P.S. School is a privately aided institution established in 1918. Higher education institutions in and around Ettumanoor include [[Mangalam College of Engineering]] and Ettumanoorappan College, Ettumanoor.<ref>{{cite web |title=Principal’s Message |url=https://ettumanoorappancollege.edu.in/ |publisher=Ettumanoorappan College |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250524233222/https://ettumanoorappancollege.edu.in/ |archive-date=24 May 2025}}</ref>
 
There are more than a dozen colleges and professional institutions within the Ettumanoor Assembly constituency. Ettumanoor also serves as the headquarters of the Kerala Chuvar Chithra Kala Kendram, under the Government of Kerala.
 
== Hospitals ==  
{{Unreferenced-section|date=October 2020}}
{{Unreferenced-section|date=October 2020}}
[[Government Medical College, Kottayam]] is located 6&nbsp;km far away from Ettumanoor Town. Direct private and public buses are available from Ettumanoor to Kottayam Medical college. A Kerala Government well run general hospital is available at Ettumanoor nearby old Panchayth office for general treatments with free of cost.


Two private hospitals named Caritas Hospital and Matha Hospital are located within a 3&nbsp;km radius from central junction towards Kottayam. Mitera hospital provides mother and child specific care, which is located at Thellakom.
[[Government Medical College, Kottayam]] is located approximately {{convert|6|km|1|abbr=on}} from Ettumanoor town. Direct public and private bus services operate between Ettumanoor and the medical college. A Kerala Government–run general hospital is also located in Ettumanoor, near the former panchayat office, providing general treatment services.


==Government Offices==
Private healthcare facilities in and around Ettumanoor include Caritas Hospital and Matha Hospital, both situated within a {{convert|3|km|1|abbr=on}} radius of the central junction towards Kottayam. Mitera Hospital, which specialises in maternal and child healthcare, is located at [[Thellakom]].
{{Unreferenced-section|date=October 2020}}
 
Since Ettumanoor is a big town and municipality, it has numerous Government offices.The Village office is located nearby Government High School. The municipal office is situated on the top of Ettumanoor Private Bus Stand. KSEB office is situated nearby Old Panchayat office. There is one Family and sub district court  working at Ettumanoor nearby KSEB sub station. Ettumanoor Police Station is located towards Ernakulam route. One BSNL Telephone Exchange functions in Ettumanoor for receiving  new telephone applications and accepting bill collections from customers. Sub office of LIC is located at Peroor junction to accept remittances from LIC customers.
== Politics ==


SBI, ICICI Bank, Canara Bank, Axis Bank and District Urban Bank are the major banks available at Ettumanoor town for Banking transactions. An office of KFC [[Kerala Financial Corporation]] is also located at Ettumanoor to support financial needs of people.
Ettumanoor Assembly constituency forms part of the [[Kottayam Lok Sabha constituency|Kottayam (Lok Sabha constituency)]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://archive.eci.gov.in/se2001/background/S11/KL_Dist_PC_AC.pdf |title=Assembly Constituencies – Corresponding Districts and Parliamentary Constituencies |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090304011026/http://archive.eci.gov.in/se2001/background/S11/KL_Dist_PC_AC.pdf |archive-date=4 March 2009 |publisher=Election Commission of India |access-date=19 October 2008}}</ref>


==Politics==
The major political parties active in Ettumanoor include the [[Indian National Congress]], the [[Communist Party of India (Marxist)]], the [[Communist Party of India]], the [[Kerala Congress]], and the [[Bharatiya Janata Party]]. As of the most recent municipal administration, the Ettumanoor Municipality is governed by the Indian National Congress.
Ettumanoor assembly constituency is part of [[Kottayam (Lok Sabha constituency)]].<ref>{{cite web |url = http://archive.eci.gov.in/se2001/background/S11/KL_Dist_PC_AC.pdf |title = Assembly Constituencies - Corresponding Districts and Parliamentary Constituencies |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090304011026/http://archive.eci.gov.in/se2001/background/S11/KL_Dist_PC_AC.pdf |archive-date=4 March 2009  |publisher = Election Commission of India |access-date = 2008-10-19}}</ref>


The major political parties present in Ettumanoor are Indian National Congress, Communist Party of India ([[Marxist]]), Communist Party of India, Kerala Congress and Bharathiya Janatha Party. Presently the Ettumanoor Municipality is ruled by the UDF led by the Indian National Congress.
== Mahadeva Temple ==
{{Refimprove section|date=February 2025}}


==Athirampuzha river==
{{main|Ettumanoor Mahadevar Temple}} [[File:Ettumanoor temple.jpg|thumb|Ettumanoor Mahadevar Temple]]
{{Unreferenced-section|date=October 2020}}
[[Athirampuzha]] (2&nbsp;km on the west side of Ettumanoor) was an ancient town and has a water link with Alleppie port. Historically Allppie port was connected to western ghats and Palai via road and Athirampuzha port; Ettumanoor was the main town en route. Ettumanoor is place where the distance between Western Ghats and the western water body is minimal. The Pattithanam mala (on north east of Ettumanoor) is an extension of Western Ghats and Athirampuzha canal (on south west of Ettumanoor) is a water way connected to Vempanadu kayal. The distance between these two is only 4&nbsp;km.


== Mahadeva Temple ==
The ancient [[Ettumanoor Mahadevar Temple]] is one of the most prominent landmarks of Ettumanoor and has contributed significantly to the town's cultural and religious identity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple - Info, Timings, Photos, History |url=https://www.templepurohit.com/hindu-temple/ettumanoor-mahadeva-temple/ |access-date=28 November 2023 |website=TemplePurohit - Your Spiritual Destination |language=en-US}}</ref> According to local tradition, the [[Pandava|Pandavas]] and the sage [[Vyasa]] are believed to have worshipped at this temple. One interpretation associates the name of the place with the word manoor, meaning "the abode of deer".
{{Unreferenced-section|date=October 2020}}
{{main|Ettumanoor Mahadevar Temple}}
[[File:Ettumanoor temple.jpg|thumb|Ettumanoor temple]]
The ancient [[Ettumanoor Mahadevar Temple]] here has brought glory and fame to the place. Myths have it that the Pandavas and the sage Vyasa had worshipped at this temple. The name of the place had its origin from the word 'manoor', which means the home of deer.


The present temple building, with its gopuram and the fortress around it, was reconstructed in 717 ME (1542&nbsp;AD). There are [[Kerala mural painting|Dravidian mural paintings]] on the walls inside and outside of the main entrance. The [[fresco]] of Pradosha Nritham (Dance of [[Shiva]]) is one of the finest [[Wall painting]] in [[India]]. There is a golden flag staff inside the temple. On the top of it is the idol of a bull surrounded by small bells and metal leaves of the banyan tree. The temple roofs are covered with copper sheets and it has 14 ornamental tops. Bhagavati, Sastha, Ganapathy and Yakshi are installed here as subordinate deities. It is believed that the great philosopher, Sankaracharya wrote the 'Soundaraya Lahari' staying in the temple.
The present temple structure, including the gopuram and the surrounding fortifications, was reconstructed in 717 ME (1542 AD). The temple features [[Kerala mural painting|Dravidian-style mural paintings]] on the walls inside and outside the main entrance. Among these, the [[fresco]] depicting Pradosha Nritham (the dance of [[Shiva]]) is regarded as one of the finest examples of [[Mural|wall painting]] in [[India]]. The temple has a golden flagstaff topped with a sculpted bull, adorned with small bells and metal leaves shaped like those of a banyan tree. The roofs are covered with copper sheets and are crowned with 14 ornamental finials. In addition to the main deity, shrines dedicated to Bhagavati, Sastha, Ganapathy, and Yakshi are present. Tradition also holds that the philosopher [[Adi Shankara|Shankaracharya]] composed the Saundarya Lahari while staying at the temple.


===Festivals===
=== Festivals ===  
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{{Unreferenced-section|date=October 2020}}
[[File:Ezharaponnana ezhunnallathu.jpg|thumb|Ezhara Ponnana festival]]
[[File:Ezharaponnana ezhunnallathu.jpg|thumb|Ezhara Ponnana festival]]
The famous Ettumanoor Mahadevar Temple hosts the arattu festival celebrated on a grand scale on the Thiruvathira day in February–March every year. Lot of people come to this temple on the 8th and 10th day of the festival when seven and half elephants (in Malayalam: ezharaponnaana) made of gold (nearly 13&nbsp;kg) will be held in public view.this statue was donated to the temple by a travancore maharaja. The temple, the wealthiest Devaswom in Kerala, has many valuable possessions.


The [[tulabhara|Thulabharam]] is one of the important rituals of this temple. People make offerings to God for favours received. On balance, the child or man for whom offerings were promised to God, is weighed against offerings ranging from gold to fruits. Ettumanoor is an important pilgrim Centre of Hindus.
The Ettumanoor Mahadevar Temple is known for its annual arattu festival, celebrated on a large scale on the day of [[Thiruvathira]] during February–March. Large numbers of devotees visit the temple, particularly on the eighth and tenth days of the festival, when the Ezhara Ponnana—seven-and-a-half golden elephants weighing approximately {{convert|13|kg|1|abbr=on}}—are ceremonially displayed. These golden elephants were donated to the temple by a Maharaja of [[Travancore]]. The temple, administered by the Travancore Devaswom Board, possesses several valuable ritual and ceremonial objects.


The history of origin of ''Ettumaanoorappan'' is from Kattampakk, a small village in Kottayam district.
The [[tulabhara|Thulabharam]] ritual is also an important practice at the temple, in which devotees are weighed against offerings such as fruits or other items, symbolising gratitude for perceived blessings received. As a result of its religious significance, Ettumanoor is recognised as an important Hindu pilgrimage centre.


Etumanoor was a temple town; so the great sage vyasa came to the temple as a mahamuni.
According to temple tradition, the deity Ettumanoorappan is believed to have originated from [[Kattupakkam|Kattampakkam]], a village in the Kottayam district. Local legends further associate the temple town with visits by sages, including Vyasa, reflecting its long-standing religious importance.


==Ettumanur railway station==
== Ettumanoor railway station ==  
{{Unreferenced-section|date=October 2020}}
{{Unreferenced-section|date=October 2020}}
Ettumanoor railway station was the hub for steel supply for [[Idukki dams]] during its construction. Express trains like Venad Express and Parasuram express stop at the railway station. During festivals at Ettumanur temple, express trains like Vanchinad Express have special stops here.
 
Ettumanoor railway station played an important role as a logistical hub for the supply of steel during the construction of the [[Idukki Dam|Idukki dams]]. Several express trains, including the [[Venad Express]] and the [[Parasuram Express]], have scheduled halts at the station. During major festivals at the Ettumanoor Mahadevar Temple, additional express services, such as the [[Vanchinad Express]], are provided with special stops at Ettumanoor railway station.
 
== Radio Mangalam 91.2 FM ==
{{Unreferenced-section|date=October 2020}}
 
[[File:Radio_Mangalam.png|thumb|Radio Mangalam logo]]
 
Radio Mangalam 91.2 FM is a community radio station managed by [[Mangalam College of Engineering]]. It has been operational since 2016 and broadcasts programmes primarily aimed at the local community.
 
The station airs three live programmes daily. Mangalam Wishes, broadcast from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., features greetings and messages from listeners. Mangalam Vani, aired between 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m., focuses on discussions, interviews, and topics of local and community interest. The evening programme, Crazy Time, broadcast from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., provides entertainment-oriented content. These programmes reflect the station's emphasis on community participation and locally relevant broadcasting.


== Notable people ==
== Notable people ==
{{alumni|residents|date=October 2020}}
{{alumni|residents|date=October 2020}}
* [[Karoor Neelakanta Pillai]]<ref>{{cite web |title=Biography on Kerala Sahitya Akademi portal |url=http://www.keralasahityaakademi.org/sp/Writers/Profiles/Karoor/Html/Karoorgraphy.htm |publisher=[[Kerala Sahitya Akademi]] |access-date=17 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160804164803/https://keralasahityaakademi.org/sp/Writers/Profiles/Karoor/Html/Karoorgraphy.htm |archive-date=4 August 2016 |language=ml}}</ref>
* [[S. P. Pillai]]
* [[S. P. Pillai]]
* [[Ettumanoor Somadasan]]
* [[Victor George]]
* [[V. D. Rajappan]]
* [[George Kurian (politician)|George Kurian]]
* [[Dennis Joseph]]
* [[Dennis Joseph]]
* [[V. D. Rajappan]]
* [[Victor George]]


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
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{{commons category}}
{{commons category}}
* [http://www.browsekerala.com/kottayam/panchhomepage.asp Details] about services
* [http://www.browsekerala.com/kottayam/panchhomepage.asp Details] about services
* [http://www.prd.kerala.gov.in/ettumanoorfestival.htm About Ettumanoor] from Kerala Public Relations department
* [http://www.prd.kerala.gov.in/ettumanoorfestival.htm About Ettumanoor] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110610032214/http://www.prd.kerala.gov.in/ettumanoorfestival.htm |date=10 June 2011 }} from Kerala Public Relations department


{{Central Travancore}}
{{Central Travancore}}

Latest revision as of 17:29, 16 March 2026

Ettumanoor
Municipality[1]
North entrance to the temple
North entrance to the temple
Ettumanoor is located in Kerala
Ettumanoor
Ettumanoor
Location in Kerala, India
Ettumanoor is located in India
Ettumanoor
Ettumanoor
Ettumanoor (India)
Coordinates: 9°40′N 76°34′E / 9.67°N 76.57°E / 9.67; 76.57[2]
Country India
StateKerala
DistrictKottayam
Area
 • Total27.8 km2 (10.7 sq mi)
Elevation
4 m (13 ft)
Population
 (2011)[3]
 • Total51,129
 • Density1,800/km2 (4,800/sq mi)
Languages
 • OfficialMalayalam, English
Time zoneUTC+5:30 (IST)
PIN
686631
Vehicle registrationKL-05
Nearest cityKottayam
LiteracyNearly 100%
Lok Sabha constituencyKottayam

Ettumanoor (ml) is a municipality in the Kottayam district of Kerala, India.[4] It is located approximately 10 km (6.2 mi) north of the district headquarters at Kottayam and about 163 km (101.3 mi) north of the state capital, Thiruvananthapuram. According to the 2011 Indian census, Ettumanoor has a population of 51,129 and a population density of 1,839/km2 (4,760/sq mi).

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The name Ettumanoor is traditionally explained through several local and mythological interpretations. One interpretation traces the name to the Malayalam words maan (deer) and ooru (place), meaning "place of deer". Another version suggests that the name is derived from Ettu Mana Ooru, meaning "the land of eight manas", referring to eight Namboothiri Brahmin households (Ashta Grihas) who are traditionally regarded as the original ooralans (trustees) of the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple.

It is also believed that Lord Shiva appeared at this place (ooru) in eight (ettu) different forms, which contributed to the name Ettumanoor.[5]

According to local tradition, Ettumanoor is considered a historically significant site, with myths stating that the Pandavas and the sage Vyasa were associated with the establishment of the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple.

Transportation[edit | edit source]

Ettumanoor main junction

Ettumanoor has two bus stands: a Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) station master's office with an adjoining bus station, and a privately operated bus stand. Deluxe, express, and inter-state buses halt at the town. Direct bus services are available to several destinations, including Bangalore, Mangalore, Theni, Cumbum, Velankanni, Palani, Madurai, Tuticorin, Kanyakumari, Salem, and Coimbatore.

The two bus stands are located close to each other, with a large market situated between them, contributing to Ettumanoor's role as a local commercial centre. Two state highways intersect within the town, and two additional highways originate from it, making Ettumanoor an important transit point for commuters in the region.

Economy[edit | edit source]

Ettumanoor hosts an industrial estate under the Government of Kerala, along with a production centre under the Government of India, which together form the town's principal industrial facilities. The industrial estate is noted as the only such facility in Kerala functioning under the Ministry of Labour, Government of India. The main products manufactured in the area include rolling shutters, bakery items, rubber products, and wood-based products.

Since the 1950s, Ettumanoor has also been recognised as a major centre for the trade of building materials in the Central Travancore region.

Education[edit | edit source]

Mahatma Gandhi University, established on 2 October 1983, is located at Athirampuzha, approximately 6.7 km (4.2 mi) south-west of Ettumanoor. Government-run educational institutions in the town include an Industrial Training Institute (ITI), a Government Boys' Higher Secondary School, a Government Girls' Model High School, a Teachers' Training School, and a Lower Primary School.

Privately managed institutions include SFS Public School and Junior College, Shree Vidyadhiraja Higher Secondary School, and Ebenezer International Residential School. The Town U.P.S. School is a privately aided institution established in 1918. Higher education institutions in and around Ettumanoor include Mangalam College of Engineering and Ettumanoorappan College, Ettumanoor.[6]

There are more than a dozen colleges and professional institutions within the Ettumanoor Assembly constituency. Ettumanoor also serves as the headquarters of the Kerala Chuvar Chithra Kala Kendram, under the Government of Kerala.

Hospitals[edit | edit source]

Government Medical College, Kottayam is located approximately 6 km (3.7 mi) from Ettumanoor town. Direct public and private bus services operate between Ettumanoor and the medical college. A Kerala Government–run general hospital is also located in Ettumanoor, near the former panchayat office, providing general treatment services.

Private healthcare facilities in and around Ettumanoor include Caritas Hospital and Matha Hospital, both situated within a 3 km (1.9 mi) radius of the central junction towards Kottayam. Mitera Hospital, which specialises in maternal and child healthcare, is located at Thellakom.

Politics[edit | edit source]

Ettumanoor Assembly constituency forms part of the Kottayam (Lok Sabha constituency).[7]

The major political parties active in Ettumanoor include the Indian National Congress, the Communist Party of India (Marxist), the Communist Party of India, the Kerala Congress, and the Bharatiya Janata Party. As of the most recent municipal administration, the Ettumanoor Municipality is governed by the Indian National Congress.

Mahadeva Temple[edit | edit source]

Main article: Ettumanoor Mahadevar Temple
Ettumanoor Mahadevar Temple

The ancient Ettumanoor Mahadevar Temple is one of the most prominent landmarks of Ettumanoor and has contributed significantly to the town's cultural and religious identity.[8] According to local tradition, the Pandavas and the sage Vyasa are believed to have worshipped at this temple. One interpretation associates the name of the place with the word manoor, meaning "the abode of deer".

The present temple structure, including the gopuram and the surrounding fortifications, was reconstructed in 717 ME (1542 AD). The temple features Dravidian-style mural paintings on the walls inside and outside the main entrance. Among these, the fresco depicting Pradosha Nritham (the dance of Shiva) is regarded as one of the finest examples of wall painting in India. The temple has a golden flagstaff topped with a sculpted bull, adorned with small bells and metal leaves shaped like those of a banyan tree. The roofs are covered with copper sheets and are crowned with 14 ornamental finials. In addition to the main deity, shrines dedicated to Bhagavati, Sastha, Ganapathy, and Yakshi are present. Tradition also holds that the philosopher Shankaracharya composed the Saundarya Lahari while staying at the temple.

Festivals[edit | edit source]

Ezhara Ponnana festival

The Ettumanoor Mahadevar Temple is known for its annual arattu festival, celebrated on a large scale on the day of Thiruvathira during February–March. Large numbers of devotees visit the temple, particularly on the eighth and tenth days of the festival, when the Ezhara Ponnana—seven-and-a-half golden elephants weighing approximately 13 kg (28.7 lb)—are ceremonially displayed. These golden elephants were donated to the temple by a Maharaja of Travancore. The temple, administered by the Travancore Devaswom Board, possesses several valuable ritual and ceremonial objects.

The Thulabharam ritual is also an important practice at the temple, in which devotees are weighed against offerings such as fruits or other items, symbolising gratitude for perceived blessings received. As a result of its religious significance, Ettumanoor is recognised as an important Hindu pilgrimage centre.

According to temple tradition, the deity Ettumanoorappan is believed to have originated from Kattampakkam, a village in the Kottayam district. Local legends further associate the temple town with visits by sages, including Vyasa, reflecting its long-standing religious importance.

Ettumanoor railway station[edit | edit source]

Ettumanoor railway station played an important role as a logistical hub for the supply of steel during the construction of the Idukki dams. Several express trains, including the Venad Express and the Parasuram Express, have scheduled halts at the station. During major festivals at the Ettumanoor Mahadevar Temple, additional express services, such as the Vanchinad Express, are provided with special stops at Ettumanoor railway station.

Radio Mangalam 91.2 FM[edit | edit source]

Radio Mangalam logo

Radio Mangalam 91.2 FM is a community radio station managed by Mangalam College of Engineering. It has been operational since 2016 and broadcasts programmes primarily aimed at the local community.

The station airs three live programmes daily. Mangalam Wishes, broadcast from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., features greetings and messages from listeners. Mangalam Vani, aired between 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m., focuses on discussions, interviews, and topics of local and community interest. The evening programme, Crazy Time, broadcast from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., provides entertainment-oriented content. These programmes reflect the station's emphasis on community participation and locally relevant broadcasting.

Notable people[edit | edit source]

Gallery[edit | edit source]

  • Temple entrance
    Temple entrance
  • Ucha Pooja or noon prayer
    Ucha Pooja or noon prayer
  • Temple Bhandaram (Donation box)
    Temple Bhandaram (Donation box)

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ https://lsgkerala.gov.in/system/files/2017-10/localbodies.pdf Archived 17 April 2018 at the Wayback Machine Template:Bare URL PDF
  2. ↑ Falling Rain Genomics, Inc - Ettumanoor
  3. ↑ "Ettumanoor municipality - At a glance".
  4. ↑ https://lsgkerala.gov.in/system/files/2017-10/localbodies.pdf Archived 17 April 2018 at the Wayback Machine Template:Bare URL PDF
  5. ↑ "ETTUMANOOR MAHADEVA TEMPLE". ettumanoormahadevatemple.com. Retrieved 24 December 2025.
  6. ↑ "Principal's Message". Ettumanoorappan College. Archived from the original on 24 May 2025.
  7. ↑ "Assembly Constituencies – Corresponding Districts and Parliamentary Constituencies" (PDF). Election Commission of India. Archived from the original (PDF) on 4 March 2009. Retrieved 19 October 2008.
  8. ↑ "Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple - Info, Timings, Photos, History". TemplePurohit - Your Spiritual Destination. Retrieved 28 November 2023.
  9. ↑ "Biography on Kerala Sahitya Akademi portal" (in മലയാളം). Kerala Sahitya Akademi. Archived from the original on 4 August 2016. Retrieved 17 February 2023.

External links[edit | edit source]

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