Chittur Gurumadom

Chittur Gurumadom is a heritage memorial located on the banks of the Sokanasini River in Chittur, Palakkad district. It commemorates Thunchathu Ezhuthachan, regarded as the father of Malayalam literature, who spent his final years here. The site preserves artifacts including manuscripts, a stylus, and idols used by the poet, serving as a significant cultural landmark for Malayalam literary heritage.

Visitors can explore a traditional two-storeyed building housing exhibits related to Thunchathu Ezhuthachan, including his personal belongings such as a Srichakra, worship idols, wooden slippers, a stylus, and old manuscripts. The serene riverside setting offers a peaceful environment for reflection on Malayalam literary history. The site is particularly active during Vijayadasami when children are brought for Vidyarambham ceremonies.

Chittur Gurumadom is believed to be where Thunchathu Ezhuthachan, the 16th-century poet regarded as the father of Malayalam literature, spent his final years. It is here that he transcribed his renowned works, including the Adhyatma Ramayana and transcreations of the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The four-century-old building has been renovated and preserved as a memorial.

The site holds immense cultural importance as a tribute to Thunchathu Ezhuthachan's contribution to Malayalam language and literature. It serves as a center for Vidyarambham, a Hindu initiation ceremony where children are introduced to learning on Vijayadasami day. Hundreds of children are initiated into the world of letters here annually, accompanied by Ramayana recitals.