ITHAK MATHEN (Mathen Kochukunju ) (1846 - 1918 ) (PL.1.2.1)

Eldest son of Mathen (PL.1.2)

Ithak Mathen Kochukunju belonged to the 7^th generation Palathinkal

Ithak Mathen , born in 1846, was popularly known as Mathen Kochukunju.

Mathen Kochkunju was basically a dealer in textiles, first of its kind in Kottayam. He was dealing with stock and sale of gold and other items also. He started his business at the young age of 16.

He flourished in business and was mainly the leading textile merchant in Kottayam.

He was equally involved in social and religious activities. He was a lay leader of Mar Thoma Church and was an influential person in the society. When Mar Thoma church lost Cheriapally in a court verdict, it was Mathen Kochukunju and Chackalayil Avarachen, who were instrumental in procuring the land for the present Jerusalem Mar Thoma Church at Kottayam. The site on which the Jerusalem Church of Kottayam now stands, belonged to Dr.Joseph Lawrence Gomes (Sarkar Appothikkiri). It was not likely to be sold to Marthomites, due to influence by opposite side. Our clever lay leaders then arranged two Anglican church members to buy the land from Dr.Gomes in 1897. In 1899, Palathinkal Mathen Ithak and Chackalayil Ittycheria Abraham got the land transferred in their names and then transferred it for construction of Jerusalem Mar Thoma church.

Historian Sri.Titus Varghese, in page number 110 of his book on ‘Mar Thomas Athanasius Metropilitan’ describes the historical contributions of Palathinkal Mathen Ithak and Chackalayil Ittycheria Abraham to the Mar Thoma sabha, in great detail.

Mathen Kochukunju first married Chachi, daughter of Thiruvarpu Cheriaparackal Varghese, in which they had three sons P.I.Ithak (Kochukutty), P.I.Varkey (Varkeyachen), P.I.Mathai (Mathaichen) and one daughter Mariam.

When Chachi died, he married Elachi, daughter of Parippu Paravathu Chacko, in which they had four sons P.I.Kurien (Kuriachen), P.I.Chacko (Chackochen), P.I.Joseph (Kochu), P.I.Philip (Kunju) and three daughters Sosa, Ealy and Sara.

Mathen Kochukunju was called to his eternal rest on 25^th March 1918.

Courtesy: Isaac Palathinkal

MATHEN VARKEY (Varkey Magistrate) (PL.1.2.3)

3^rd Son of Mathen (PL.1.2)

Mathen Varkey (Varkey Magistrate) belonged to the 7^th generation of Palathinkal

Mathen Varkey, also known as Varkey Magistrate, was one of the most prominent personalities in Travancore. He was a Magistrate. He was well known for his judgments, which were excellent and always impartial. It is further believed, as told by our elder generations, that he was the first Magistrate to have convicted an Englishman. Varkey Magistrate was well known for his educational, administrative and legal knowledge and also for his capability through out South India.

He was a multifaceted personality, leaving a glorious image in the society.

Kottayam Public Library was started in 1882, as 'Reading Club'. Mathen Varkey was its Joint Secretary along with its founder Arch Deacon John Kaily (as per Njananikshepam January 2007 issue).

He was also a highly religious person and an ardent supporter of the Church. Probably due to his constant contacts with English officers and missionaries, he opted to join the Anglican Church, the then Church Mission Society (CMS) of India. ‘Vayanapeedom’ in C.S.I Cathedral, Kottayam was donated by Mathen Varkey and his name is seen engraved on it.

As per his close relatives, his end came on 14^th July 1923, when he fell down in the church after reading Bible on a Sunday at Alleppey C.S.I Church. His body was brought to Kottayam and buried at C.S.I Church Cemetery, Kottayam.

Mathen Varkey’s wife was Achamma, daughter of Karappuzha Thayyil Cherian. She passed away on 17^th February 1924.

The couple had three sons P.V.Mathai, P.V.Isaac, P.V.Cherian - all of whom later became well known Scholars, Professionals and Statesmen of the country - and five daughters Achamma (Kunjamma), Chechamma, Saramma, Mariam and Mammy.

George Isaac, who was a Rhode Scholar and Mary Roy, the famous Social activist are Varkey Magistrate’s grand children.

Arundhathi Roy, the famous Social activist, Writer and Winner of Brooker prize is Varkey Magistrate’s great grand daughter.

Courtesy: Susy George Isaac

A.I.IPE (1873-1951) (AR.1.2.2)

2nd son of Itty Ipe (AR.1.2)

A.I.Ipe belonged to the 7^th generation of Palathinkal

A.I.Ipe, popularly known as Arackal Kutty, the second son of Itty Ipe (AR.1.2), was born in the year 1873. He had his schooling in Kottayam Government School and then in C.M.S High School. After schooling he joined Government service, which he resigned to take up contract work for the Public Works Department. His interest then turned to business and he became Manager of Pambanar branch of Kottayam Trading Company. Later, he promoted ‘Peerumedu Trading Depot’ at Pambanar. He, along with his family, spent almost 25 years in the Highrange area and then came back to Kottayam to settle down. Back in Kottayam, he ran a Forwarding Agency for Travancore Tea Estate Company and Aranackal Tea Company. A.I.Ipe was not satisfied with the success achieved in all his initiatives so far and thus his interest fell on various other businesses. He started two most important business houses of Travancore, namely Kottayam Bank Ltd and K.P.Press.

A.I.Ipe, along with his business activities, was fully involved in Mar Thoma Church activities. He had collected and contributed a considerable amount of money for the construction and maintenance of Jerusalem Mar Thoma Church of Kottayam.

A.I.Ipe, the multifaceted personality of Palathinkal Arackal branch, breathed his last on 26^th July 1951, at the age of 78.

A.I.Ipe’s wife was Mariamma, daughter of Kottayam Chackalayil C.I.Kurien. The couple were blessed with four sons A.I.Itty Ipe, A.I.Kurien, A.I.Jacob, A.I.John and three daughters Ealen, Mariamma & Sosakutty.

“Kannuneerinte Kanikka”, a memorial publication-cum-History book of Palathinkal family in honour of the late Arackal Sri A.I. Ipe, was published in the year 1952 .

Courtesy: Kannuneerinte Kanikka

MATHEN MATHAI (Major Mathai) (PL.1.2.5)

Youngest son of Mathen (PL.1.2)

Mathen Mathai (Major Mathai) belonged to the 7^th generation of Palathinkal

Mathen Mathai, popularly known as Major Mathai was the youngest son of Ithak Mathen. He did his schooling at C.M.S.College High School, Kottayam. Later, he was sponsored by his elder brother P.M.Varkey (Varkey Magistrate) for higher education and thus he did his Licentiate in Medicine from Madras Medical College. Immediately after completing the course, he had the good fortune to come into contact with the Prince of Travancore (the first in line to the Travancore throne). The prince encouraged and supported him to go abroad for higher studies, following which he went to UK and took his Licentiate from the University of Edinborough. Unfortunately, during this period, the crown prince passed away. With this, Mathen Mathai’s ambition of becoming official physician of Maharaja of Travancore also perished.

On his return from UK, he set up his practice in Bombay. He married Rebecca, daughter of Ittoop of Vadasseril family of Kottayam. The couple were blessed with one son Mathai. Unfortunately, young Rebecca died and hence Mathen Mathai married Grace, daughter of Diwan Behadur V. Varghese of Kozhymannil family of Thiruvalla. They had five children, three sons (George, Thomas and Joseph) and two daughters. Fate played cruel again and Grace along with the two little daughters died following an epidemic of Cholera, which struck Bombay.

After the death of Grace, Dr.Mathai stopped private practice, on obtaining, ‘Kings Commission’ in Indian Medical Service. He then married Accamma daughter of Kurien of Pookkoikkal family of Kayamkulam. They did not have any children.

Dr.Mathai retired from service in the rank of ‘Major’. He died at the age of 72 years and Accamma ten years later.

Courtesy: Jacob Mathai

P.I.ITHAK - (1874-1956) (PL.1.2.1.1)

(Eldest Son of Mathen Ithak (Mathen Kochkunju) (PL.1.2.1)

P.I.Ithak belonged to the 8^th generation of Palathinkal

P.I.Ithak, popularly known as ‘Ithak Registrar’ to the society at large and as Kochukutty to friends and relatives, was born on 28^th June 1874 as the eldest son of Mathen Ithak and Chachy.

He had his schooling in C.M.S College High School, Kottayam. After schooling, he joined Madras Christian College (MCC) for his B.A and graduated from Madras University. He was one of the first few graduates from Kottayam.

Travelling was not easy in those days. Ithak had to go by bullock cart upto Podanur to catch train to Madras.

After graduation he opted for Travancore service in Excise department, but did not like the job as it did not give him job satisfaction, especially because offenders escaped scot free in many cases. So Ithak opted for the Registration department and joined service as Sub-Registrar. In those days, there were only 4 sub Registrars in Travancore and only one Registrar for the whole state. Ithak retired as a sub-Registrar. His son Georgekutty asked him once why he opted for Travancore service. Had he joined Madras service, he would have retired as a chief Secretary like some of his collegemates. Ithak’s answer was ‘let us be thankful to God for his small mercies’. This was a great message from him to the younger generations.

Like his father, Mathen Kochukunju, Ithak was also involved in Mar Thoma Church activities. He was Trustee of Jerusalem Marthoma Church during 1928-30.

His wife was Aleyamma, daughter of Kottayam Chackalayil Ittycheria Abraham. Aleyamma passed away on 14^th August 1941.

Ithak was a voracious reader and spent most of his retired life in reading books. He had a collection of hundreds of books, which were donated to the library of Christian College, Chengannur, a few years after his death.

Children: Three sons - Isaac (Kunju), Abraham (Appu), George (Georgekutty) and two daughters Ammini and Chechamma.

Ithak was called to his eternal rest on 9^th July 1956.

Courtesy: Isaac Palathinkal

DR. P.V. CHERIAN (1893-1969) (PL.1.2.3.3)

M.B.B.S, D.L.O., F.R.F.P.S.(Glas), F.R.C.S.(Edin)

(3^rd Son of Mathen Varkey PL.1.2.3)

Dr.P.V.Cherian belonged to the 8^th generation of Palathinkal

Dr. P.V.CHERIAN, third son of P.M.Varkey (Varkey Magistrate) and Achamma, was born on 9th July 1893 at Alleppey in Kerala. It is told by elders that Dr.Cherian had his babyhood at our Palathinkal Tharavadu ‘Akathilottu’. Educated at the Maharajah’s College High School, Trivandrum, young P.V.Cherian passed his Matriculation Examination in 1909. Later he studied at C.M.S.College, Kottayam and passed his Intermediate Examination. He came to Madras in 1912 to pursue his further scholastic career and joined the L.M.S Course, which was subsequently converted into five year M.B.B.S. He passed all his medical examinations at the very first attempt and took his M.B.B.S. degree in 1917. He was then appointed Assistant Surgeon in the Government Hospital for Women and Children, Madras.

Within three weeks after his first appointment, he was granted a Temporary Commission in the Indian Medical Service and was posted to Bangalore. Subsequently, he was posted to Bellary in the Hospital for Prisoners of War. Later he was attached to the 88th Carnatic Infantry which left for Mesapatomia (Iraq) on Field Service. In Mesopotamia (Iraq), he served at different places like Basara, Bagdad, Mosul, Sherghat and Baquba and returned to India in 1922 on being posted to Jhansi. From Jhansi he was transferred to Mhow.

On being released from the Army, he was appointed as Assistant to the Professor of Biology and Medical Jurisprudence. It was then that he came into contact with Major E.W.C.Bradfield, one of the greatest surgeons the Indian Medical Service ever had. At the request of Major E.W.C.Bradfield, the First Surgeon and Professor of Surgery and Biology in the Madras General Hospital, Dr.Cherian, encouraged by his friends, accepted the appointment as an Assistant to the First Surgeon, General Hospital, Madras in 1923. Later in 1925, he went to England on study leave to specialise in Ear, Nose and Throat Diseases.

In London, he worked in the Central London and Golden Square Ear, Nose and Throat Hospitals. He took Diploma in E.N.T from the Royal College of Surgeons. He then proceeded to Glasgow and took the Glasgow Fellowship and later passed the F.R.C.S. Examination in October 1926 from Edinborough. He then proceeded to Vienna where he worked with Prof.Ruttin and many other famous surgeons of international eminence. Prof.Ruttin had very high opinion about the skill and ability of Dr.P.V.Cherjan as an E.N.T Surgeon. Since then he had a distinguished and successful career as an eminent E.N.T. Surgeon of All India repute. He organised the E.M.T department of the Madras General Hospital and built it up as a very efficient and well—equipped institution. The professional services rendered at the E.N.T Department of the Madras General Hospital headed by Dr.P.V.Cherian was of such high order that people from all over India came to Madras to have the benefit of his special skill. Eventually, Dr.Cherian became the Principal of the Madras Medical College and his appointment as the First Indian Surgeon General of Madras was the culmination of a glorious career as an eminent surgeon devoted to the cause of E.N.T surgeory in particular and the medical profession in general. He was the first President of the All India E.N.T Association and was also the first President of the All India E.N.T Conference held at Madras, inaugurated by the Governor, the Maharajah of Bhavanagar.

On retirement in 1948, Dr.Cherian came under the influence of Sir Mohammed Usman and was inducted into politics. Though he avoided politics, politics sought him. He became an Alderman of the Corporation of Madras in November 1948 and in November 1949 he was elected MAYOR OF MADRAS. Seven years later, his wife Mrs.Tara Cherian was elected to this high office and thus the case of the Cherians is the only one instance where both husband and wife have been elected to this high office of Mayor of Madras.

From the Municipal forum to the State forum was a natural and inevitable transition in the case of Dr.P.V.Cherian. In 1959 he was elected to the Madras Legislative Council from the Indian Christian Constituency. In 1952, he was returned to the Legislative Council from the South Graduates Constituency and by reason of his very eminent position, he was elected as the Chairman of the Madras Legislative Council. In 1959, he was again re-elected to the Madras Legislative Council and on such re-election he was elected again as the Chairman of the Council for another term of six years which office he held with conspicuous ability and distinction.

Dr.P.V.Cherian had widely travelled abroad. Besides his early travels abroad in connection with his studies, he went to America in 1950 as District Governor of Rotary and visited Chicago, Detroit and Washington, where he met and conferred with the Mayors, in particular with the Mayor of New York, Mr.O.Dwyer. In 1957, he visited the United Kingdom and Ireland as a delegate from the Madras Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. On this occasion, he visited other Legislatures from the continent of Europe. At the invitation of the Federal Republic of Germany, he visited West Germany.

Dr.P.V.Cherian’s activities were not confined to surgery and politics alone. He was an educationist as well. He was for a number of years, a member of the Syndicate of the Madras and Annamalai Universities. He was also the Vice-Chancellor of the Annamalai University. His services as a member of the Syndicates representing the Faculty of Medicine were greatly valued and appreciated.

In the field of sports and cultural activities, he played a notable part assisted by his able wife Mrs.Tara Cherian. In 1952, he, along with his wife played a notable part as Director of the All India Olympic Games. He and his wife successfully organised and conducted the World Conference of Christian Youth at Kottayam. He was a Member of the Board of Governors, the Lakshmibai College of Physical education, Gwalior. He was also a Member or the Board of Administration, Lawrence School, Lovedale, South India. Dr.P.V.Cherjan was also a keen Freemason and a Rotarian. He has held very high offices in both Freemasonry and Rotary.

Last but not least, Dr.P.V.Cherian was a very popular and prominent figure in the social circles of Madras. His interest and activities were varied and many. As Mayor he rendered great service for the improvement of slums and the upliftment of the poor.

The appointment of Dr.P.V.Cherian, as Governor of Maharashtra, when Smt. Vijayalaxmi Pandit resigned on 14^th November 1964 was the ultimate recognition he received. Dr.P.V.Cherian was to have retired as Governor on 14^th November 1969, after 5 years of excellent service, but fate did not allow him to complete the term. He expired on 9^th November 1969 at the age of 76.

Courtesy: George Isaac / Mathew Joseph

P.I.OOMMEN (PL.1.2.2.1)

Eldest son of Mathen Ipe (PL.1.2.2)

P.I.Oommen belonged to the 8^th generation Palathinkal

Sri.P.I.Oommen, an eminent Planter and business man, popularly known as Oommachen, was born on 28^th October 1883 as the eldest son of P.Mathen Ipe and Unichy. He had his school and college education at C.M.S High School and College, Kottayam.

After his education, he joined his father in his civil contract business. In 1908, he entered the plantation field. It was his uncle Sri.P.M.Varkey Palathinkal (Varkey Magistrate), who introduced him to the British Planter Mr.W.A.Bisset. Oommachen helped Bisset in planting Semni valley and Kavakkulam estates. During World War 1, Sri.Bisset handed over the operations of the estates and returned to England for a short time, as the estates were running in loss. By the time, Mr.Bisset returned, the estates were made to run in profit and Oommachen acquired 300 more acres of plantation. Mr.Bisset was so impressed that he presented a ‘Mangalapathram’ to Oommachen, praising him for his honesty and hard work. In 1928, he purchased 2000 acres of land from Mr.A.S.Gauld in Vythiri, South Wynad. He developed it into ‘Kurichermala Plantations’ growing Tea, Coffee, Cardamom, Orange and Pepper. He founded Ipe Oommen and Co in 1935. He served as board member of Kottayam Bank, Malankara Plantations, Tropical Plantations and Malabar Agricultural Company.

He was equally active in the progress of Mar Thoma church. He served as trustee of Jerusalem Mar Thoma church and worked along with Sri.K.K.Kurien Kalarickal, Sri.Chakkalayil Yohannachan, Deacon Thomas Panampunnayil (who later became Thomas Mar Athansius Suffragan Metropolitan) and Sri.V.I.Joseph for construction of buildings for Mar Thoma Seminary and was a member of its Governing Body. Oommachen’s influence over the Europeans helped the church a lot in fetching funds for the construction of the Seminary. He sponsored a room in the seminary in memory of his eldest son Ipe, who died at the age of 26. He had maintained close relationship with Titus Second Mar Thoma, Juhanon Mar Thoma and Alexander Mar Thoma Metropolitans as well as all the Episcopas of Mar Thoma Church.

Wife: Ealimma, daughter of V.M.Itty (Kochitty) of Vadakkekuttu, Pallom. Their marriage was the first marriage in Jerusalem Mar Thoma church.

Children: Five Sons – P.O.Ipe (Kunju), P.O Abraham (Aniyan), P.O. Thomas.(Thankachen), P.O.Issac (Babychen), . Mathew. P. Oommen( Kunjumon) and Seven daughters – Thankamma, Pennamma, Kuttiamma , Amini , Kunjamma, Kochu and Chellamma

Oommachen was called to eternal rest on 6^th October 1969. All Bishops of Mar Thoma Church, Cathoilcos Designate Mathews Mar Athansius and Bishop M.M.John of CSI took part in his funeral.

Courtesy: Ranjit Mathew

A.I. ITTY IPE (1899-1972) (AR.1.2.2.1)

Eldest son of A.I.Ipe (AR.1.2.2)

A.I. Itty Ipe belonged to the 8^th generation Palathinkal

Sri.A.I.Itty Ipe is another luminary from Arackal branch of Palathinkal family. Sri. Itty Ipe was born on 14^th September 1899, as the eldest son of Sri.A.I.Ipe.

He had his BA (Economics) degree from Madras Christian Colege.

Following footsteps of his father Sri.A.I.Ipe, he directly entered into business field. He was the Founder Managing Director of Kottayam Bank, the most prominent bank in Travancore - Cochin during those days. He was also Director of six prominent Plantation companies. He was very successful in all the business fields where ever he entered into and had created great impressions in all those fields. He was dearly known as ‘Arackal Bank Manager’ to the public of Kottayam Town.

Sri. Itty Ipe was deeply involved in social and religious activities also. He was Chairman of Kottayam Muncipality and member of governing body of CMS College Kottayam, Mar Thoma College Thiruvalla, St.Thomas College Kozhenchery, MT Seminary HS, etc.

He was Trustee of Jerusalem Mar Thoma Church, Kottayam for a number of years, He served as a member of Mar Thoma Sabha Council for six terms and was a member of Mar Thoma Sabha Mandalam for several years. The beautiful pulpit and the front railings of Jerusalem Mar Thoma church were contributions from this lay leader to the church.

Illustrious life of Sri. Itty Ipe came to an end on 2^nd October 1972 at the age of 73.

Sri.Itty Ipe’s wife was Chachyamma (Kuttyamma) daughter of Kiliroor Munduchirackal M.C.Abraham. They were blessed with three sons - Capt.A.I.Ipe (Joy), A.I.Abraham (Chachutty) and A.I.Kurien (Royce) and two daughters Thankamma and Kunjamma.

Courtesy: ’Kannuneerinte Kanikka’

DR. P.I.GEORGE (1907-1983) (PL.1.2.1.1.3)

3^rd Son of P.I.Ithak (PL.1.2.1.1)

Founder President – Palathinkal Kudumbayogam

Dr.P.I.George belonged to the 9^th generation of Palathinkal

Dr.P.I.George, alias Georgekutty was born on 16th Nov. 1907. He had his early education at CMS High School, Kottayam and Govt. School,Ettumanoor. He then attended CMS College before securing admission in Madras Medical College from where he graduated in Medicine and earned his MS in Physiology.

On 16th June 1940, he married Thankammachy (Elizabeth) daughter of Rev.M.J.Chandy of Mattethara, Kottayam.

A brilliant and strong-willed person, he began his career in earnest as Medical Officer with Parry & Co. At that time he was stationed at Nellikupam in Tamil Nadu. In 1940, he volunteered to join the Army and was posted at Rawalpindi in Punjab. At the outbreak of World War ll, he tended to patients in distant lands including Egypt, Israel and Italy amomg others. It was out there on the battlefield that he personally witnessed the horror and frightfulness of war. Though the war drew to a close, he continued his association with the Services through his work as Medical Officer for the Army, first at Trivandrum and then at Aurangabad.

When he returned to civilian life in 1946, he joined his Alma mater, Madras Medical College, this time as a lecturer in the Department of Physiology. Later he taught at the Stanely Medical College, Madras, Madurai Medical College and thereafter Kilpauk Medical College, Madras, from where he retired on super-annuation. However, his teaching career did not end there. Upon retirement he joined the faculty of Physiology at CMC Vellore and had a brief stint at Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, as well. It was probably his rich and varied experiences - having worked in different places with people who had different ideas - that animated his professional and personal life.

In 1973, he relocated to his hometown, Kottayam where he lead a peaceful life totally devoting all his time to family and friends. He was one among the core group instrumental in the formation of Palathinkal Kudumbayogam and was its founder President.

A thorough disciplinarian, he was much respected for his kind and gentle demeanor and the shining example he set for others.

He was called to his eternal rest on 12th October 1983.

Children: Three daughters: Susheela and Santha, twins born on 17-7-1941 and Lalitha born on 21-9-1946. Susheela is married to C.K. Thomas of Kannukuzhiyil family, Puthuppally, Santha to P.M. John of Panampunnayil family, Kottayam and Lalitha to W.C. Thomas of Wadakkethalakkal family of Olessa.

Courtesy: Susheela Thomas

SUSIE ISAAC (1908-2000)

Wife of P.V.Isaac (PL.1.2.3.2)

Mrs. Susie Isaac ne Kuriyan, was born on 27.6.1908 in Nagercoil as the sixth child of Sri. John Kuriyan. She had an exceptional happy childhood. She excelled in her studies – she learned to speak and write in flawless English, she learnt European classical music- singing and playing the piano and the Latin liturgy of the Roman Catholic Church. She spoke beautiful Malayalam and Tamil. She finished her schooling in the Baker Memorial Girls School in Kottayam and then studied at the Women’ Christian College in Madras. The college chose her to garland Mahatma Gandhi when he visited the college . She was an excellent tennis player – later in her life, as the only Indian women who could play tennis, she was chosen to partner the Viceroy of India when he visited the Imperial Agricultural Research Institute in Bihar.

She got married to Sri. P.V.Isaac, the second son of Palathinkal Varkey Magistrate. Soon after the couple went to Europe where they stayed in Geneva in Switzerland, with her elder brother, Sri. K.Kuriyian. While in Geneva, the young Susie took lesson in playing the violin, charming her teacher with her extraordinary talent and dedication. Later the couple moved to London, where Susie learnt European cooking and mastered European etiquette.

Susie was a brilliant teacher and spent a great deal of time teaching her children and her grandchildren - with fantastic results – She had a beautiful singing voice and was an enthusiastic member of the Singing Club in Kottayam.

In 1960 Susie showed her entrepreneurial talents – she founded one of the first small scale industries in Kerala manufacturing its traditional food products – pickles, curry powders, banana jam, coconut vinegar etc under the brand name ‘PALAT’ which became world famous over night – her products were sold all over Kerala, India and practically all over the world – PALAT tender mango pickle became one of the most sought after pickles in the world!!!

Susie was a wonderful hostess to the wide variety of people, from all walks of life, from all over the world, who visited her in Palathinkal.

Susie Isaac was severely handicapped by her defective eyesight – she was practically blind for much of her life – but this did not prevent her from keeping herself informed of current events, from living a full and active life and leaving an indelible impression on all those who met her in Kottayam, where she spent the last fifty years of her life till her death in 2000.

Children: George Isaac, John Isaac, Molly and Mary

Courtesy: George Isaac

A.I.IPE (1911 – 1994) (AR.1.2.1.1)

Son of A.I. Itty Ipe(AR.1.2.1)

A.I. Ipe belonged to the 8^th generation Palathinkal

A.I.Ipe was popularly known as Achen. He was born on 8-10-1911 as the only son (he had 4 sisters) of A.I.Itty Ipe and Aleyamma of Arackal branch of Palathinkal.

He had his schooling in C.M.S College High School and ‘Intermediate’ in C.M.S.College, Kottayam. Then he moved on to Science College (present University College), Trivandrum, from where he graduated in Physics and Chemistry with distinction. He started his career as a teacher in C.M.S College High School during which period he took Diploma in Geography. Sri.M.G.Alexander (Dr.Alexander Marthoma Metropolitan) was his colleague in the school.

While working as a teacher, Achen engaged himself as an Agent of Oriental Insurance Company. He resigned the job as a teacher after working for 3 years. He then became Chief Agent of Kottayam Bank Ltd and also engaged himself in securing business for Oriental Insurance Company. In 10 years, he secured a business of Rs 2 lakhs (a princely sum then!) and he was selected as a Field Inspector, Business Development of Oriental Insurance Company. In 1949 he joined nationalized Insurance company ‘The Empire of India Life Assurance Company’ as Branch Secretary covering entire old Malabar area. Subsequently he worked in Madras & Calcutta branches and Bombay HO of the company. In 1956, when Insurance business was nationalized, he was posted as Branch Manager of LIC of India, at Kottayam. In 1960, Achen was promoted as Asst Divisional Manager at Trivandrum and later transferred to Coimbatore, from where he retired in 1971.

Achen was a multifaceted person. He was an active YMCA member and was Secretary of the Boat Club of Kottayam YMCA. He also used to write articles in Malayala Manorama and Indian Express on Insurance matters. Achen was very active in other social and cultural activities. While in Coimbatore, he was President of Kerala Samajam.

He was very active in Mar Thoma church activities also. He was associated with formation of Mar Thoma congregations outside Kerala and was even assigned responsibility for sorting out ticklish problems of a few parishes outside Kerala. After retirement he settled down at Kottayam. He was Trustee of Jerusalem Mar Thoma church and Treasurer of Christavasramam, Manganam.

Wife: Mariamma (1917-1996), daughter of Kanjikuzhy Chirayil Kunjutty.

Children: 4 Sons I.K.Ipe (Kunjumon), Johnykutty Ipe (Johnykutty), Bhasi Joseph Ipe (Bhasi) and Vinoo George Ipe (Vinoo) and One daughter Nirmala

Achen was called to eternal life on 23-07-1994.

Courtesy: Bhasi Joseph Ipe

ACHAMMA JOSEPH (1913-2005)

Wife of P.I.Joseph (PL.1.2.1.7)

Achamma, popularly known as Palathinkal Achamma Kochamma, was born on 26^th June 1913 in Parappally Thazhathu family of Kanam as daughter of P.M.Mathew and Mariamma.

On June 8, 1942 Achamma was married to advocate P.I Joseph, Palathinkal.

Her associations with various Christian denominations in her early life had developed in her an open mind and healthy respect for the diverse Christian traditions. Being a strict disciplinarian, she instilled in the children self discipline, value of hard work, compassion for others and a sense of self worth.

Mr P. I Joseph died on November 30^th 1974. Instead of retiring into sedate widowhood, Achamma turned her energy into community work and involvement in church. She used every opportunity to help the less fortunate. She firmly believed in education as the means to get out of the cycle of poverty. She helped many poor young people to attain a useful education - often at great sacrifice to herself.

Achamma’s greatest contribution was to the Kottayam Jerusalem Church. The church activities became her life’s ministry. She was the Vice President of the church for many years, only relinquishing the position when she was in her nineties. She was actively involved in all aspects of the church life - teaching in Sunday School, leader in Savika Sangam, reading lesson during Sunday Worship, member of Vestry and various committees, raising money for church projects, member of pastoral team visiting the elderly, mentor for new Achens etc. Her ability to interact with all strata of the community and across all ages was really amazing. Her uncompromising dedication to the causes she believed in and her indefatigable energy in the pursuit of goals for the common good were without parallel. She became the champion of the less fortunate, the voice of the voiceless in decision making bodies within the church. She was loved and admired greatly by many. She was ‘Achamma kochamma’ to the church community – from bishops to laymen alike and ‘Ammachy’ to the hundreds of poor people who thought of her as their friend. She never preached or quoted Bible, but lived it with the conviction that “whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me”.

Achamma died on 15^th November 2005 after a short period of illness. She is survived by 2 sons Rajan and Thampi and 3 daughters Susan, Mariamma and Laly.

Courtesy: Susan Thomas

P.I.JOSEPH BA.LT (1911-1983) (PL.1.1.1.1.2)

2^nd Son of P.Kurien Ithak (PL.1.1.1.1)

Sri.P.I.Joseph belonged to the 9^th generation of Palathinkal

Sri.P.I.Joseph, dearly known as ‘Babysar’ or Babychayan, the second son of P.Kurien Ithak was born on 23^rd March 1911. He started his career as a teacher at Mar Thoma Seminary High School, Kottayam in 1939. He had served the institution in the most efficient manner, most devotedly for more than 3 decades. He was head of the institution for nine years. He guided and steered the school in such a way as to bring it to the zenith of its glory, of course to the first place in academic and non-academic fields. No wonder, it was a well deserved recognition to him and a public acceptance of his valuable services to the community as a teacher of outstanding merit, when he was conferred the National Award for Best Teachers in 1968, by the President of India.

‘Babysar’ was an ideal teacher and an able administrator. He was a visionary educationalist and a noble thinker. His commitment to a value based life was actually due to his deep faith in the Almighty. His amiable nature, amazing humility, simplicity and sincerity attracted others to him. He commanded real respect and love from his students, colleagues, friends and from members of Palathinkal family. He had a wealth of knowledge and his ability of speech was commendable. He was a good writer also and his books were approved as text books in schools. He was very active in the affairs his own family, the Palathinkal family, the Church and the society. A true gentleman to the core, he was a friend, philosopher and guide not only to his students but also to everyone who got an opportunity to get acquainted with him. “Wearing a white juba and traditional mundu with malice towards none and charity for all”, he moved with us holding responsible positions and working for noble causes.

Babychayan entered into his eternal rest on 18^th January 1983, at the age of 72.

The glorious tribute paid by Sri.George Isaac, former President of the Palathinkal Kudumbayogam, sums up the total personality of this noble person. It went on like this “Few institutions in Kottayam have made a greater contribution to the growth and development of our community of this Town, of this State and of this country than this 96 year old M.T.Seminary School. To ‘Babysar’, one of the most distinguished Head Masters and teachers, whom we are met to mourn today, this community and this State and this country owe a debt of unparalleled – if inadequately acknowledged – gratitude”.

Babychayan was a totally satisfied personality, filled with wisdom and experience of the generations he had worked with and the generations he had taught, held together without strain, without paradox and without apparent effort. A personality shaped by long sustained labour, bearing responsibilities patiently and ably borne, marked by kindness, compassion and piety.

He was extremely active in the formation of Palathinkal Kudumbayogam and was its founder Secretary. He was an ornament to this country, to this State, to our community, to our church and to the Palathinkal family. Truly a Prince among men.

Good Night, sweet Prince. Flights of angels guide thee to thy rest.

Courtesy: Leelamma Simon

Dr.P.C.THOMAS M.A, Ph.D (PL.1.1.1.2.2)

2nd son of Chacko (PL.1.1.1.2)

Dr.P.C.Thomas belonged to the 9^th generation of Palathinkal

Dr.P.C.Thomas was the second son of Chacko and Achamma.

Dr.P.C.Thomas, who was known to friends and relatives as Kunjomachan was a great scholar and academician from Palathinkal family.

Dr.Thomas had a brilliant academic career. He had his school education at Kottayam. He graduated from C.M.S.College,Kottayam. He took his MA (Economics) from St.Josephs College, Trichy, standing first in the University of Madras. Later he was a Research Fellow of University of Pensylvania and Member of Institute of International Education,USA.

He belonged to a class of intellectuals. He held many top Indian and International positions in academics. He was Professor and Head of Department of Economics, Guwahati University. He was also Dean, Faculty of Arts, Guwahati University

At International level, Dr.Thomas was UNESCO Expert Member of Development Economist (Educational), Kathmandu, Nepal and Financial Planning Consultant of United Nation at Paris and Kuwait.

Kunjomacahan died on 13^th July 1987 at the age of 78

Kunjomachan’s wife was Mary (Thankamma), daughter of Dr.V.T.Kurien of Kozhenchery Valiaveettil family. Mary took her Masters degree in English Literature from Women’s Christian College, Madras. She died on 15^th December 86 at the age of 71

They were blessed with one son Raju Thomas, formerly a bank professional and one daughter Achamma (Mira). Mira was formerly a member of teaching staff of some colleges and a University. She is married to Dr.P.T.Cherian, now retired as a senior scientist from Central Scientific Ministry.

Courtesy: Dr.P.T.Cherian

ISAAC PALAT. Jr (SUNNY) (1940-2007) (PL.1.2.2.3.1)

Elder Son of Isaac Palat (Sr) (PL.1.2.2.3)

Isaac Palat belonged to the 9^th generation of Palathinkal

Sri.Isaac Palat (Sunny) was born on 20th December 1940. He had his schooling at C.M.S.High School, Kottayam. He did his Pre-university at U.C.College, Alwaye and did his Engineering at Manipal Engineering College.

While in school, he was a well known Basket Ball player and represented Kerala State Schools team. Later, he switched over to Hockey and played for his college and University. He was an all rounder cared and loved by fellow students as well as teachers.

In 1968, he started his own business venture ‘Jiss Engineers’ dealing with Refrigeration and Air conditioning products of M/s Voltas, at MD Commercial Centre, Kottayam. He thrived in his business and was well known in the field through out Kerala.

He was very active in the activities of Jerusalem Mar Thoma church, Kottayam and was its Trustee. He was involved in various social activities in Kottayam and was ‘Sunnychayan’ to the youth of Kottayam.

He loved and liked the YMCA activities and was a Board member of Kottayam YMCA. He was also an active Rotarian and was an Assistant Governor of Zone 16 of Rotary District 3201.

Apart from all the above, he was a true Palathinkal person, caring for everybody in the whole Palathinkal clan. He was available to every body, every time, whenever one needed any help. In fact, formation of Palathinkal Kudumbayogam became a reality because of the sincere and dedicated efforts of Sunny. He was the flesh and blood of Palathinkal Kudumbayogam, occupying the posts of Treasurer, Secretary and President of the Kudumbayogam many times.

Palathinkal Kudumbayogam as also various social service organizations of Kottayam lost its best friend with the untimely demise of Sunny on 14^th August 2007.

Sunny’s wife is Valsa, daughter of P.C.Mathew of Panackal House, Trichur. They have three children - 2 sons Isaac Palat (Pradeep), Mathew Palat (Praveen) and one daughter Sarah Mathew (Preetha)

Courtesy: Valsa Isaac

ISAAC THOMAS (Kunjunju) (UL1.1.1.1.1)

Eldest son of Thommy Ithak (UL.1.1.1.1)

Isaac Thomas belongs to the 9^th generation of Palathinkal

Sri. Isaac Thomas, the eldest son of Ithak (UL.1.1.1.1) was born on 13^th August 1914. He is a well known and outstanding Palathinkal person.

After Matriculation from Kottayam and training in Food Inspection at Bombay, he joined Travancore services. He later became Food Inspector of Kottayam Muncipality. Prior to retirement, he went into his own financial business. He started Ullattil Bankers and Ullattil Chit Funds, which have now flourished into a well known financial establishments in Kerala.

He was deeply interested in social and religious activities. He donated 5 cents from his own property, near Thoombil bridge, Puthenangady, Kottayam for constructing a ‘Kurishumthotty’ for Kurishupally, in memory of his father Thommy Ithak. Foudation stone for the Kurishulthotty was laid down by Baselius Geevarghese Dwideeyan Catholica Bava (Kurichy Bava) of Orthodox Church.

Apart from the above, he donated 50 cents of his property to Orthodox church for constructing houses for old persons without a place to live.

Kunjukunju was Trustee of Kurishupally for many years. He was also a Member of Managing Committee of Orthodox Church. He was Manager of St.Thomas Girls High School, Puthenangady and also a member of the Governing body of Basalios College, Kottayam.

He was President of Palathinkal Kudumbayogam for three terms and worked enthuistatically for development of Kudumbayogam. It was Kunjukunju, who took the lead role in renovating ‘Kodimatha Prarthanalayam’, which was earlier donated to Jerusalem Mar Thoma Church, Kottayam by Palathinkal family. This ‘Prarthanalayam’ is now a regular meeting and worship place of Jerusalem church.

His wife is Annamma, daughter of Valia Punnavelil Mathen. They have three sons Babu, Sam and Kochumon and four daughters Susan, Aswathi, Reena and Suni. Babu expired few years back.

Kunjukunju, after years of hectic activities, lead a retired life with Annamma at their ancestral house near Union Club, Kottayam. He was called to his eternal rest on 15^th May 2009.

Courtesy: Jacob Thomas

GEORGE ISAAC (PL.1.2.3.2.1)

Elder Son of P.V.Isaac (PL.1.2.3.2)

George Isaac belongs to the 9^th generation of Palathinkal

Sri.George Isaac, the elder son of P.V.Isaac was born on 16^th February 1928. He is an outstanding Palathinkal person well known in India and abroad. He is one of the very few Rhodes Scholars from India. He holds Bachelors degree in Politics, Philosophy and Economics. George had his education at St. Stephen’s College, Delhi, Madras Christian College, Chennai and Balliol College, Oxford, U.K, where he was a Rhodes Scholar and member of its rowing team of Oxford.

He started his career as Lecturer in Economics, Madras Christian College. Subsequently he worked as Covenanted Assistant - Kilburn & Co, Calcutta and then in the Skandenavisken Bank, Stockholm, Sweden. Later, George worked with Metal Box Company, London and then with Metal Box Company of India, Kolkata.

He is now the Managing Partner of Malabar Coast Products, which manufactures and exports the well-known ‘Palat’ brand of pickles jams, squashes and canned pineapple products, curry powders, etc. George is also the Managing Director of The Malabar Food Processors (P) Ltd., Kottayam. George has obtained an Indian Patent for a continuous agitating, processing and cooling machine for canned fruits & other high acid food products.

George was President of Kerala Small Scale Industries Association and is Chairman of the Kerala Chapter of AIFPA. He has been deeply involved in promoting small-scale industries, particularly in the food processing sector, which offer a viable solution to the problems of unemployment and poverty. George is also Ex-Chairman and Prof. of Industrial Finance. Indian Institute of Regional Development Studies, Ex-Vice President - South Zone Indian Council of Small industries, Member - Central Excise Regional Advisory Committee (Kerala), Member Committee on Processed Fruit & Vegetables -Bureau of Indian Standards and Ex-Member of Central Fruit Products Advisory Committee.

He is Chairman of the Gandhi Peace Foundation in Kottayam.

1^st Marriage: Cecilia, a Swedish woman. They have three sons Erik, Johan and Larse, all of whom returned to Sweden along with their mother Cecilia.

2^nd Marriage: George then married Soosy. Soosy is a leading woman Entrepreneur of Kerala. They have a son Markose and a daughter Christina.

George was one of the proponents of Palthinkal Kudumbayogam and was an effective co-ordinator during its formation. He is a past President of Palathinkal Kudumbayogam.

Courtesy: Soosy George Isaac

A.I.ABRAHAM (AR.1.2.2.1.2)

2nd son of (AR.1.2.2.1)

A.I.Abraham belongs to the 9^th generation of Palathinkal

Sri.A.I.Abraham alias Chachutty was born on 1^st August 1935. He had his schooling at C.M.S.College High School and graduated in Economics from Madras Christian College. He started his career as Dy.General Manager of Kottayam Orient Bank. Later, he was Managing Director of Cash Credit Pvt Ltd, Kottayam.

He was actively involved in many public, social, relegious and cultural activities and the offices he held are numerous. To cite all of them will be a difficult task. However a few of them are given below:

• Member - Regional Advisory committee, Customs and Central Excise

• Member – Kerala Posts and Telegraph Advisory committee

• Member – Kerala State Sales Tax Advisory committee

• Member – Railway Users Consultative committee

• President – Kottayam Chamber of Commerce

• Member – Mar Thoma Sabha Mandalam

• Chairman – Madras Christian College Malayalee Association

• President – MCC Alumni Association, Kottayam Chapter

• Vice Chairman – Kottayam Ecumenical Association

• Representative from India at Asian Christian Youth Assembly held at Philipines in 1965

• District Governor – Rotary International

• Advisor –Rotary Foundation Alumni Association

• Chairman – Alsheimer’s and Related Diseases Soceity of India

• Director – Mlamala Tea Estates Ltd

• Vice President – Kottayam Mar Thoma Jerusalem Church

• President – Palathinkal Kudumbayogam, Kottayam, etc,etc

Apart from being elected as District Governor in 1990-91, he received the following Awards from Rotary International:

• Key Man of Rotary in 1986

• ‘Service above self’ Award in 1999

• Paul Harris Fellow in 1982

In addition he was leader of Group study exchange team which visited USA in 1975 and Canada in 1985.

Chachutty is married to Leela, daughter of Kollamkeril Chalisseryl P.K.Kurian. Leela is recipient of many Awards in home gardening.

Children: One son Abraham (Monachy) and one daughter Latha.

Chachutty passed away on 3rd August 2018

Courtesy: Millennium Stars – The Winner’s story

ISAC ARACKAL (AR.1.3.3.1.4)

Third Son of Isac (AR.1.3.3.1)

Isac Arackal belongs to the 9^th generation of Palathinkal

Sri.Isac Arackal, born in April 1935, passed away on 25th May 2020, at the ripe old age of 85 years ‘young’, as he would himself put it jokingly after a life well lived. Born as the 3rd son and 4th child of 6 children to Sri.A.I.Isac and Smt.Mariamma Isac in Kottayam District, he completed his schooling in Kottayam.

During his degree years in CMS College, Isac was bitten by the political bug joining the Indian National Congress and doing his part as an active congressman till his father enforced a brief hiatus by sending Isac to Indore to complete his MA in Sociology. Returning Isac plunged back into the thick of politics rising to becoming the Kottayam DCC President, till fate intervened in the form of Sri. K.M.Mathew (Malayala Manorama), who compelled Isac to send in his application to join Manorama as a Journalist Management Trainee. An interesting anecdote is that the entire episode transpired much after the official deadlines for the job had elapsed and that he was selected as one of the first batch of only 4 such Management Trainees in Manorama’s history.

After a brief training stint in Kottayam, he was posted to Ernakulam. Besides excelling in his job, he found time for social and professional activities. He was also the Founding Vice President of the Ernakulam Press Club, which recently celebrated its Golden jubilee in 2017. He was honored with a ‘Ponnada’ by his excellency Sri. P Sathasivam, Governor of Kerala and Retired CJI Supreme Court, at this event.

Isac soon moved to Kozhikode to begin what he himself refers to as his Golden period. ‘Isacettan’ as he was popularly and affectionately referred to by Kozhikode’s denizens, was a firmament in the recent history of Kozhikode. Famous for his pivotal and pioneering investigative reports such as ‘Arabi Kalyanam’, and ‘Ketta Kuli’ which brought these social evils to public attention, these issues were subsequently taken up by other media people and the public. Isac has been hailed by the Manorama leadership as one of the key builders of Manorama’s clout and circulation in the Malabar region to become No.1 in what used to be its rival publication Mathruboomi’s citadel. Besides these professional achievements, he was instrumental in setting up the Kozhikode Public Library, He was the founding secretary of Calicut Urban Beautification Endeavour (CUBE) with Sri.S.K.Pottakadu, the noted writer as Chairman. He played a major role in setting up the Calicut Press Club. It was also during his Kozhikode stint that he got married to Salamma Isac and was blessed by 2 Children – Chintu and Cheryl. Now, Chintu is a Chartered Accountant and Cheryl, a Lawyer.

Returning to Kottayam in 1986, besides his work, Isac continued his yeoman service as Telecom Advisory Committee Member, Kottayam District. He officially retired in 1993 but was given extension of service till 2013 by Manorama. While Manorama occasionally grants extension, it is very rare to provide extensions of such duration (not more than a handful) and is a recognition of Isac’s devotion and loyalty to Manorama and his role in Manorama’s success.

Isac, though he lost his wife in May 1999, continued to be a prolific reader and writer and foodie all this life right till the very end. His political antennae were well developed and he had been friends with or mentored many of Kerala’s leading and well known public figures in politics and social service. Some of these well known figures had shared their personal tributes and sentiments on passing away of Isac.

The funeral ceremony of Isac took place at Kottayam Jerusalem Marthoma Church cemetery on 25th May 2020.

Courtesy: Isac C.Arackal (Chintu)