Matrimonial

Real-estate

Shopping

Education

Jobs

Thiruvananthapuram, earlier known as Trivandrum, is the capital city of Kerala. The name literally splits into "Tiru", "Anantha" "puram" meaning "the town of Lord ANANTHA".

This is really true since the temple is at the heart of the town and for generations, the kings have called themselves "Padmanabha-Dasa" or the "servants of LORD Ananthapadmanabha", and ruled the state as the representatives of LORD Anantha-Padmanabha.

This temple, built by Raja Marthanda Varma in 1733 A.D. is a fine specimen of South Indian architecture. It is in honors of Lord Vishnu and He reclines here on Anantha the serpent. This magnificent temple tower rises in seven stories against the reflecting pool in front.

This temple, built by Raja Marthanda Varma in 1733 A.D. is a fine specimen of South Indian architecture. It is in honor of Lord Vishnu and He reclines here on Anantha the serpent. This magnificent temple tower rises in seven stories against the reflecting pool in front.

The town has a history of supporting fine art and culture. The Kings of Tiruvancore (Thirunals as they are known) have not only promoted art but have themselves been accomplished artistes.

The most famous of them is Swathi Tirunal who is a well known composer in both Karnataka and Hindustani styles of music, and Raja Ravi Varma the internationally acclaimed painter, well known for inventing paints using natural materials.

The town bustles with activity during Navaratri, when music festivals are held in the Sri Padmanabha Swamy Temple. Unique in its style, the temple combines the Chola and Chera styles and is large enough to conduct processions within the temple.

There is a separate quadrangle for dancers, where even the pillars are tuned and reverberate to different notes! Anantha-Padmanabha in reclined posture is a large statue, which needs to be viewed from three separate doors.

During the beginning of this century, the state had a statesman Diwan called Sir.C.P.Ramaswamy Iyer, who made women's education compulsory and free. He also allocated 15% of the state budget to education, laying the foundation for 100% literacy, which Kerala achieved quite a few years ago.

We can see vivid proof of the religious tolerance of this state - a mosque, a temple, and a church are within yards of each other at Palayam Junction.