Thiruvananthapuram: Three Mandirs in Malappuram, historically linked to attacks during the reign of Tipu, are among those receiving financial assistance from Anant Ambani, son of Mukesh Ambani. As part of his birthday initiatives, Anant Ambani has extended support to several Mandirs across Keralam, including the renowned Guruvayur Mandir and Taliparamba Rajarajeshwari Mandir.
The three Mandirs in Malappuram benefiting from this initiative are the Niramkaithakotta Bhagavathi Mandir, the Triprangode Shiva Mandir, and the Thrikandiyur Mahadeva Mandir. These Mandirs have endured a long history of conflict and survival. The Thrikandiyur Shiva Mandir in Tirur is believed to have been destroyed during Tipu’s military campaigns. During the Mappila Rebellion of 1921, several Mandirs in the region were attacked or occupied, with some reportedly used as operational bases. The Mundorshikkadavu Mahavishnu Mandir was destroyed during this period, though the Thrikandiyur Mandir survived the upheaval. Similarly, the Triprangode Shiva Mandir in Tirur faced attacks during Tipu’s rule and suffered further damage during the 1921 Islamic rebellion. The Rinkaikaithakotta Bhagavathi Mandir too was among those affected by historical invasions and conflicts attributed to Tipu’s campaigns.
Reaffirming his commitment to preserving Keralam’s spiritual and cultural heritage, Anant Ambani recently announced substantial financial aid for the restoration and upkeep of these ancient Mandirs, many of which are over a thousand years old and carry deep historical significance. At the Rinkaikaithakotta Bhagavathi Mandir, he has contributed Rs 75 lakh for the renovation of the ancient ‘Pattupura’, where intricate carvings of the Balakanda from the Ramayana are preserved. This initiative aims to safeguard these culturally significant artworks. Additionally, he has donated Rs 40 lakh for the Mandalakala Annadana Mahotsav at the Nedumparamba Bhagavathi Mandir in Parappanangadi, supporting traditional rituals and community participation.
For the Tirupurangode Shiva Mandir, Anant Ambani has allocated Rs 1 crore to reconstruct its historic lighthouse, which was destroyed in past conflicts. This restoration effort is intended to revive the Mandir’s legacy rooted in the era of the Zamorins.
At the Thrikandiyur Mahadeva Mandir, believed to have been established by Parasurama, he has provided ₹60 lakh to complete ongoing renovation works. This support is expected to significantly help preserve the heritage of this ancient Mandir, ensuring its legacy endures for future generations.
Total contributions cross Rs 22.5 crore
With overall contributions exceeding Rs 22. 5 crore, Anant Ambani has extended major support to a network of historic shrines across Keralam, focusing on restoration, conservation, and infrastructure development. Other Mandirs including, Thalassery Thiruvangad Sree Ramaswami, Kadavallur Sree Ramaswamy, Ariyannur Harikanyaka, and Parappanangadi Nedumparambu Bhagavathi, have received support primarily aimed at restoration and infrastructure enhancement. The contributions were made following the recommendation of astrologer Parappanangadi Unnikrishna Panicker.
At Taliparamba, authorities confirmed that a detailed project plan for renovating the centuries-old gopuram and constructing a multi-level parking facility, along with a helipad, has been approved. Necessary clearances have been secured, and work is expected to commence shortly. At Thiruvangad, renovation efforts will focus on strengthening and protecting the sanctum, including roofing work using traditional materials. Similarly, at Kadavallur, known for the historic Vedic scholarly event Anyonyam, plans have been finalised to restore key structural elements surrounding the sanctum after expert consultations.
