Eternal Tales of Muziris and 6 Inspiring Things to do in Kochi

Saga of Muziris: A Guide to Exceptional Things to Do in Kochi

Step into an extraordinary voyage through Kochi, where the ordinary fades into the background, and hidden wonders await your discovery.

While typical destinations may lure with predictable attractions, the true allure lies in venturing into Muziris, a realm pulsating with inspiring “things to do in Kochi.”

In this captivating blog article, Moksha Stories unveil to you an exclusive list of perfect experiences, each carefully crafted to ignite your sense of wonder and curiosity. As you wander through the enchanting cityscape, Muziris emerges as the vibrant epicenter, where every moment promises a thrilling adventure.

From the timeless elegance of Paliam Palace to the mesmerizing craftsmanship of Chendamangalam weavers, each encounter on our curated list offers a tantalizing peek into the rich tapestry of Kochi’s cultural heritage and the irresistible charm of Muziris.

Join us as we uncover the tales of the enchanting blacksmiths, immerse ourselves in the eco-friendly practices of screw pine weaving, and marvel at the legacy of violin-making at Fiddle Craft Luthiers. Explore the opulent world of goldsmith communities and unravel the mysteries woven into the fabric of ancient Muziris.

This article serves as your gateway to a world of unforgettable experiences, where every “thing to do in Kochi” and every Muziris revelation is a testament to the city’s dynamic spirit and storied past. So, step into this journey with us, and let the magic of Kochi and Muziris unfold in the most delightful and unexpected ways.

Beyond Time: Paliam Palace, Where Every Wall Whispers Secrets

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Chendamangalam, Muziris, the resplendent Paliam Palace stands tall, weaving together tales of political intrigue, architectural marvels, and a rich cultural legacy. Revered as ‘Kovilakam’ in the 17th century, this iconic structure encapsulates the history of the region, with its architecture serving as a fusion of Dutch and traditional Kerala styles—a nod to the gratitude of the Dutch towards Paliath Achan’s strategic tip-off about the Portuguese danger to the Kochi king.

The very essence of Paliam Palace’s ‘Kovilakam’ title stems from a crucial historical moment when Paliath Achan played a pivotal role in safeguarding the Kochi King from Portuguese threats.

As you traverse the two-story palace, the ground floor unfolds as an exclusive space for esteemed guests, adorned with intricately carved wooden staircases and Dutch sash windows—a harmonious blend of European and indigenous architectural elements.

Ascending to the first floor, dedicated to Valiya Achan, the prime minister, reveals a living room, master bedroom, and Darbar hall—a glimpse into the regal past of Paliam Palace. The second floor, believed to be the refuge of the King of Kochi during Portuguese threats, echoes with the whispers of a time when power and refuge were inseparable.

If the Palace’s architecture and history piqued your curiosity, visit this website for an in-depth look. To know more about the revival of Paliam Palace, read this article by Mr. Benny Kuriakose.

Yet, amid the grandeur lies a poignant reminder of the era’s societal norms—women were prohibited within the palace walls. The Paliath family, surpassing the kings of Kochi in power and affluence, played a vital role in Chendamangalam and Muziris’ development. The discriminatory practices, however, led to the Paliam Satyagraha—a movement signalling the decline of Paliath Achan’s dominance.

Paliam Palace is more than an architectural marvel; it’s a living legacy that unfolds a chapter of history, where power and community were intricately intertwined. The stories of countless individuals who contributed to the family’s rise resonate through the palace’s corridors—a testament to a bygone era that shaped the region.

From Loom to Legacy: The Artistic Evolution of Chendamangalam Weavers

Beyond Paliam Palace’s welcoming gates lies the Chendamangalam weavers’ community—a cadre of skilled artisans with a centuries-old tradition of weaving textiles exclusively for the Paliath family. Their intricate handloom techniques and commitment to organic dyeing practices add a cultural layer to the allure of Kochi.

The Devanga Chettiar community, residing in Muziris since the sixteenth century under Paliath patronage, played a pivotal role in crafting garments for the men and women of Paliam Palace. The women adorned themselves with kasavu dhotis, kasavu sarees, and neriyathu, while the men wore muslin cotton dhotis—a symbol of dignity and high standing.

The weavers’ craft began with simple designs, evolving over time to incorporate motifs reflecting the breathtaking architecture of Paliam Palace. A unique blend of tradition and artistry, their creations tell stories of a bygone era.

Despite facing challenges, notably the devastating flood of 2018, the resilience of these weavers’ shines through. Thanks to the efforts of social entrepreneur Mrs. Lakshmi Menon, the damaged fabric found new life as Chekkutty ragdolls, breathing fresh vitality into the intricate weaving tradition.

Exploring the past and heritage of these weavers, who transformed a common plant into a means of subsistence, becomes an immersive experience through the Muziris tour presented by Moksha Stories. Witness the weaving process, listen to their stories, and immerse yourself in this unique cultural activity in Kochi.

Key makers of the Palace: Blacksmiths of Muziris and their secrets

Settled near Paliam Palace, the blacksmiths of Muziris form another community with a rich history—descendants of generations who served the Paliam family. Their legacy, intricately linked with the palace, contributes to the diverse array of things to do in Kochi, offering a unique glimpse into the region’s craftsmanship.

The history of these skilled blacksmiths dates back to the very inception of Paliam Palace. Their ancestors crafted everything essential for the palace and the royal family, from everyday utensils to war equipment.

Their true craftsmanship shines in the intricate locking systems that secured the granaries and other chambers of valuables—each lock and key a unique design, difficult to imitate. Even to date, their descendants are called upon whenever a maintenance is required to the locking systems in Palace.

Despite the impact of modernization on people’s lives and crafts, the blacksmiths have persevered. The demand for their traditional practices may have diminished, but they continue to craft mesmerizing boutique cast iron antiques, preserving their heritage and passing it down to the next generation.

The tale of this blacksmith community, devoted to serving the Paliam family, is a captivating addition to the things to do in Kochi. The Muziris tour presented by Moksha Stories allows visitors to take in such stories and the beauty of these handcrafted antiques, immersing themselves in the legacy of blacksmiths.

Cultural Craftmanship: Eco-Friendly Practices of Screw Pine Weaving

In the riverside village of Kottappuram in Muziris, a unique tale of screw pine weaving unfolds—a craft that adds a cultural and sustainable touch to your list of things to do in Kochi.

Married women of Kottappuram, taking control of their economic destinies, turned to the prickly screw pine plant when their husbands’ income proved insufficient.

Crafting sturdy mats and baskets, they meticulously removed thorns and boiled the leaves before weaving—a labour-intensive yet gratifying process.

The Paliam royal family extensively used screw pine mats on various occasions. Different mats like Arippaya, Chikkuppaya, Methappaya, Panthippaya, and Mangalampaya played specific roles in events, showcasing the integral role of these woven treasures in daily life. The tradition continued, with new mats symbolizing births and weddings.

The craft of screw pine weaving faced numerous challenges, including the disastrous flood of 2018. However, the resilience of the weavers prevailed. Today, screw pine weaving thrives not only in terms of cultural sustainability but also as an eco-friendly practice. Screw pine, readily available near rivers, serves as a sustainable material that protects the environment.

Exploring the past and heritage of these weavers, who transformed a common plant into a means of subsistence, becomes an immersive experience through the Muziris tour presented by Moksha Stories. Witness the weaving process, listen to their stories, and immerse yourself in this unique cultural activity in Kochi.

Harmony in Strings: The Legacy of Fiddle Craft Luthiers

Amidst the vibrant atmosphere of Kochi, in Chendamangalam, a small workshop named ‘Fiddle Craft Luthiers’ crafts the finest handcrafted violins. This legacy of violin-making, beginning in the 1980s, unfolds as a captivating addition to your things to do in Kochi.

The journey of violin-making started when ED Murali was asked to repair a violin in the 1980s. The repair led to the creation of a violin using jackfruit wood, sold for a modest 150 rupees. This marked the beginning of a passion and livelihood for ED Murali.

Today, the violins crafted by him and his sons, Vinay Murali and Vijay Murali, stand on par with renowned international names like Stradivarius, Guarneri, and Nicolas Lupot.

Traditionally, Indian-made violins were not in demand among Westerners or even Indian violinists, who preferred Western-made instruments. However, Fiddle Craft Luthiers has challenged this notion, creating fully handcrafted violins using imported wood from Germany and Sri Lanka.

Renowned artists from India and around the world now seek out this small workshop in Muziris, turning it into a must-visit destination for those seeking unique things to do in Kochi.

Visiting Fiddle Craft Luthiers offers an immersive experience, witnessing the creation of some of the finest violins in the world. As you explore things to do in Kochi, consider adding this musical journey to your list.

Where Gold Whispers History: The Artistry of Goldsmiths

Within the remnants of ancient Muziris, a heritage forged in gold adds a touch of opulence to your things to do in Kochi. Skilled goldsmith communities, crafting history through their livelihood, offer an indulgent and culturally rich experience.

Many years ago, when Kochi was a hub of global trade, the higher class recognized the potential of gold imported to the region. Skilled goldsmiths were invited to settle in Muziris, and entrusted with forging the metal into dazzling ornaments. These exclusive ornaments adorned the upper-class residents of Muziris, including the Paliath Achans and his family.

The legacy and history of these goldsmith communities in Muziris are an experience everyone should immerse themselves in when exploring things to do in Kochi.

The Muziris Tour by Moksha Stories takes you through the history of these talented goldsmiths, weaving their life stories into the fabric of Muziris—an enriching and indulgent cultural experience.

In conclusion, the diverse array of experiences offered in Chendamangalam and Muziris, from exploring historic palaces to witnessing traditional crafts, ensures that your list of things to do in Kochi is filled with cultural richness and historical depth.

These stories, woven into the fabric of the region, not only provide a glimpse into the past but also showcase the resilience and creativity of the communities that continue to shape the cultural landscape of Kochi.

Epilogue

As you wander through the captivating narratives of Kochi’s vibrant spirit and storied past in the Saga of Muziris, the allure of the extraordinary beckons.

Each revelation, from the whispered secrets of Paliam Palace to the resilient craft of Chendamangalam weavers and the enchanting blacksmiths, weaves a tapestry of culture and history that transcends the ordinary. Embrace the unexpected and let curiosity be your guide.

To unfold the full spectrum of enchantment, we invite you to explore our day tour of Muziris, discover a world beyond imagination, and let the magic of Kochi and Muziris captivate your senses. Allow the magic of Kochi and Muziris to captivate your senses. Your extraordinary adventure awaits—indulge your curiosity, and let the story unfold.