The Kunjali Marakkars of North Kerala are known for their extraordinary feats of valour. Now they are all set to get due recognition. The Chapter of Maritime History of South India — an autonomous open forum, which will discuss and debate on India’s maritime affairs — will be opened in Kozhikode by the former Vice-Chancellor of Calicut University, Dr K K N Kurup.
The forum will include academicians, students and those interested in South Indian maritime history.
“The Kunjali Marakkars have proved their mettle as war heroes,” said Dr. Kurup. “In the 16th century, Muhammed Kunjali Marakkar, the last of the Marakkars, fought against the Portuguese colonial power along the sea route.” Kunjali Marakkar was the title given to the Muslim naval chief of the Zamorin of Calicut during the 16th century.
This saga, as well as the other events in the maritime history of South India, has been forgotten, both within academic circles as well as among ordinary people. “To remind them of this rich tradition is the purpose of this forum,” says Kurup. “People from all walks can come and share their opinions on the maritime affairs of the nation. The sea is more potent than land in terms of national security. Safeguarding the sea is every citizen’s duty. In a democratic setup, naval security is not just the Navy’s responsibility.”
The chapter will have Dr Kurup as president and Narayanan Kutty, a mechanical engineer, as the vice-president. Kutty used to train personnel in the construction of uru, a large ship, at Beypore. “There will be some seminars, lectures or get togethers every month under the aegis of the chapter,” says M C Vasisht, the secretary.