It was the year Kollavarsham 1048 (AD 1872), a time when the Alummoottil estate thrived under the meticulous management of Valiyakunju Shankaran Channar. The paddy fields stretched like green carpets under the sun, and the coconut palms swayed in the cool monsoon breeze. It was the season of Onam, a festival that symbolized abundance and unity, and Channar had grand plans to celebrate the prosperity of the estate with a harvest festival unlike any other.
The day began early, with the estate workers and tenants gathering under the largest banyan tree near the granary. Channar, dressed in traditional attire, arrived with his entourage. His presence immediately commanded respect. The workers bowed their heads in greeting as he surveyed the gathering with a calm yet authoritative gaze.
“Today,” he announced, his voice steady, “we celebrate not just the bounty of our land but also the efforts of every hand that made this possible. This harvest belongs to all of us.”
His words were met with enthusiastic applause. The workers, many of whom owed their livelihoods to Channar’s effective administration, felt a deep sense of gratitude. Under his leadership, the estate had not only prospered but had also become a community where everyone’s contributions were valued.
Preparations for the festival were in full swing. Massive earthen pots bubbled with steaming payasam, the sweet porridge prepared for the feast. Women adorned in bright kasavu sarees decorated the central courtyard with intricate pookkalams (floral designs). Drummers and musicians filled the air with rhythmic beats, setting the tone for the day.
As part of the celebrations, Channar had arranged for traditional games and performances. There were tug-of-war competitions, where laughter and cheers echoed as teams of workers and their families vied for victory. Young boys climbed greased poles to retrieve prizes tied to the top, their antics drawing delighted roars from the crowd.
Channar watched it all with quiet satisfaction. Beside him stood his trusted steward, Narayanan, who had worked tirelessly to ensure everything went smoothly.
“Thampuran,” Narayanan said, gesturing toward the granary, “the paddy yield this year exceeded expectations. Shall we allocate a portion for the temple offerings?”
Channar nodded thoughtfully. “Yes, Narayanan. Ensure that Evoor, Kandiyoor, and Haripad temples receive their shares. The gods have been kind to us; it is only fitting that we give back.”
Later in the day, a troupe of Kathakali performers arrived to stage a special play. The story, chosen by Channar himself, depicted the triumph of good over evil. As the performers brought the tale to life with their vivid costumes and expressive gestures, the audience was captivated. Children sat wide-eyed, while elders nodded in appreciation.
The highlight of the festival, however, was the grand feast. A long row of banana leaves was laid out in the courtyard, and everyone, from the youngest child to the oldest elder, sat together to partake in the meal. The sight was a testament to the unity Channar had fostered in the estate. Servants and landlords, workers and stewards—everyone was equal at that moment.
As the sun set and the festival wound down, Channar addressed the gathering once more. “This day reminds us of the blessings we share as a community,” he said. “May we continue to prosper together, not just in wealth but in spirit.”
The workers cheered, their faces lit with happiness. For them, this festival was more than a celebration—it was a reflection of their bond with the land and with Channar, who treated them with fairness and dignity.
In the quiet of the evening, as the guests departed and the courtyard emptied, Channar stood on the steps of the Nalukettu, gazing at the fields that had made the day possible. He was joined by his eldest son, Keshavan.
“A successful day, Appan,” Keshavan said, his voice filled with pride.
Channar placed a hand on his son’s shoulder. “A successful day indeed, Keshavan. Remember, wealth is transient, but the goodwill of people lasts generations. Never forget the importance of those who work with you and for you.”
The lesson stayed with Keshavan, as it did with everyone who witnessed the festival. It was a day that showcased not just the prosperity of Alummoottil but also the values of gratitude, community, and leadership that Valiyakunju Shankaran Channar exemplified.
