Karanavar Shekharan Channar (1827–1891)
Shekharan Channar, widely known as “Kuthakkakkaran” (due to his role in managing liquor-tax leases), was born in Kollavarsham 1003 (AD 1827) to Shekharappanikkar of Ezhakulath Ambalanaal and Kochikka Channatty (I) of Alummoottil. His birthplace lay near the Parakkottu Chantha in the present-day Kayamkulam region of Kerala. From an early age, he lived in a smaller subsidiary house of the Alummoottil family, alongside his parents and siblings.
Despite modest beginnings, Shekharan’s aptitude for enterprise and leadership soon became evident. He began building his wealth in his mid-twenties through liquor-production and sales licenses (kalal-kuthakka). Using initial funds from relatives of his wife’s family, he invested in the liquor business. Although some senior family members disapproved, he persevered, traveling extensively from Vatakken Paravur to Thiruvananthapuram to oversee numerous outlets under his control.
Over roughly two decades in the liquor-lease trade, Shekharan acquired considerable property in various parts of Travancore, including Kayamkulam, Kollam, Vaikkom, and Thiruvananthapuram. He also purchased land in Pathiyoor, Evoor, and Vallyakuzhi, registering these properties under the family rather than as personal assets. By around 1875, when he was about 49, he withdrew fully from the liquor business. This decision coincided with changes in Abkari laws and the departure of Diwan Sir T. Madhavarayar, with whom he had maintained a strong working relationship.
In Kollavarsham 1062 (AD 1886), following the death of Mathevan Kochukunju Channar (I), Shekharan became the Karanavar (head) of the Alummoottil family at the age of 59. One of his key actions as Karanavar was to challenge a family deed (Nischayapathram of Kollavarsham 1054), which had been executed without his consent. He filed a civil suit (O.S. 56/—) in the Kollam District Court, arguing that his senior status entitled him to assume control of all Taravad properties upon the former Karanavar’s demise. The court ruled in his favor, establishing that he had the right to manage the entire family estate.
Beyond legal matters, Shekharan contributed to several construction projects and improvements at Alummoottil. He built new storage facilities (nelppura), expanded the main house, and acquired additional plots. He also supported temple renovations and donations at Vaikkom Shiva Temple, Thalikkal Shiva Temple, Kanichanellur Ganapati Temple, and Evoor Sasikrishna Swamy Temple. Within the family circle, he oversaw religious observances and led charitable initiatives, including community feasts and seasonal relief efforts.
In his personal life, Shekharan married twice. His first wife, Kali Channatty of Kayyalaikkal, had three daughters with him. After her passing, he entered a second marriage, which did not produce children. Throughout his life, he prioritized the collective welfare of the Alummoottil Taravad, channeling most of his earnings and assets to strengthen the family rather than focusing on personal gain.
Shekharan Channar died in Kollavarsham 1067 (AD 1891) at the age of 64, reportedly from cancer. He is remembered for significantly enlarging the family’s holdings and for his firm leadership as Karanavar. His documented achievements include major property acquisitions, successful legal actions that preserved Taravad interests, and meaningful contributions to religious and charitable causes. Ultimately, his life exemplified unwavering dedication to the prosperity and cohesion of the Alummoottil family.
