Vaikom: Encyclopedia - Vaikom

Vaikom

Vaikom is situated on the western side of Kottayam district and shares its border with Vembanattu Kayal (lake). It is the oldest township in Kottayam district and amongst the oldest in Keralam. Its importance in Indian history is due to the 'Vaikom Satyagraham' against untouchability, in which Mahatma Gandhi participated. It is easily accesable from Ernakulam, Alappuzha and Kottayam. Mahadeva temple, also known as Thekkan Kashi (Southern Varanasi), is situated here and is famous for Ashtami (vaikattamshtami). Vaikom has lots of backwaters and greenery and has a high potential for tourism. The people living here comprise a mixture of Hindus, Christians, and Muslims.

Vaikom - Economy

The economy, up until the 90's, here has been predominantly based on agriculture with Coconut and rice being the major crops cultivated here. Fishing is also of importance to the economy here. More recently spices like Nutmeg, Black Pepper, Latex have also caught the attention of Vaikom farmers. The recent software revolution in India has had its impact on Vaikom too, with the establishment of numerous computer training instititues.

Vaikom - Important Temples

Vaikom is famous for the Shiva Temple.A huge number of devotees flock to this temple every year.The entire road system of Vaikom is centered on this temple.The Poonkavu temple is another temple of goddess Devi who is believed t be very strong.The people of various communities live in harmony here.

Adapted from the Wikipedia article "Vaikom", under the G.N U Free Docmentation License. Please also see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki