Legacy Revived: Pazhassi Raja’s Descendant Inaugurates Historic Cave in Cherambadi

Things to Know

Cherambadi, The Nilgiris – February 28, 2025

History came alive at Wentworth Estate, Cherambadi, as Kochu Thampuratty Subha Varma, the sixth-generation great-granddaughter of Kerala’s legendary warrior king Pazhassi Raja, and her husband Dr. Kishore graced the region with their presence. The distinguished guests inaugurated an ancient cave, now officially named "Pazhassi’s Cave," believed to have been a strategic guerrilla war hideout used between 1797 and 1801 during the Second Pazhassi War.

A Cave of Resistance: Echoes of Guerrilla Warfare

Nestled near the Wentworth Tea Factory along the route to Kottamalai Fort, Pazhassi’s Cave stands as a remarkable historical site. Experts believe it was ingeniously developed with five layers of hindrances to outwit enemy forces.

A natural river acting as the first obstacle.
A narrow entrance, accessible only by crawling, leading to a spacious interior.
An iron gate placed 100 feet inside to slow intruders.
A deceptive two-path diversion, designed to mislead enemies.
A concealed escape route leading into the dense Nilambur forests, home to wild animals, ensuring further protection.

Honoring Tribal Legacy & Artistic Dedication

The event was not just about rediscovering history but also about recognizing those who have preserved and contributed to Pazhassi Raja’s legacy. Govindhan Aashan from Ambalavayal, a respected elder of the Kuruma tribe—whose ancestors fought alongside Pazhassi Raja—was rewarded for his lineage’s valor. Additionally, Binu Thathupara from Sultan Bathery was honored for his remarkable craftsmanship in sculpting nearly all the statues of Pazhassi Raja, a testament to his dedication to immortalizing the warrior king’s legacy.

Traditional Tamil Welcome at Wentworth Estate

Arriving on February 27, 2025, Subha Varma and Dr. Kishore were hosted at the 100-year-old Wentworth Bungalow, a relic of British-era heritage. Their reception was a grand affair steeped in Tamil traditions, orchestrated by Mr. Prasad R., Senior Manager of Wentworth Estate (Harrisons Malayalam Limited). They were honored with a garland made of tea leaves, a bouquet crafted from Cherambadi’s native flora and fauna, and a ceremonial application of kumkum and sandalwood paste on their foreheads.

A Historic Tribute

The highlight of the event was the ceremonial lamp-lighting in front of Pazhassi Raja’s portrait, signifying the warrior’s enduring spirit. As the flames flickered in the heart of the ancient cave, history and heritage converged, breathing new life into the legacy of Kerala’s Lion King.

This monumental occasion marks Pazhassi’s Cave as a new historical and cultural landmark in the Nilgiris, preserving the indomitable legacy of a ruler who defied empires with the strength of his people.

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