For Malayalis, the month of Karkidakam, the last month in the Malayalam almanack which is known for its torrents and challenges, is the month of Ramayana, a time to overcome difficulties with spiritual strength. Devotees, especially elders, recite ‘Adhyathma Ramayanam’ authored by medieval devotional poet Thunchath Ramanujan Ezhuthachan. This is the period for most Hindus to lead a spiritual life with prayers and offerings to Lord Rama to counter the adversities in life.
Know more about Adhyathma Ramayanam Kilippattu and its author. Thunchaththu Ramanujan Ezhuthachan is a Malayalam poet believed to have lived during the 16th century, born in Tirur, Malabar. The present-day ‘Thunchan Parambu’ in Tirur and ‘Gurumadham’ in Palakkad’s Chittur serves as memorials dedicated to him.
He is believed to have spent his final days in Chittur. Legend surrounds Ezhuthachan, based on his birth and identity, who is believed to have faced opposition from Brahmins but was revered for his wisdom. Despite challenges, he boldly composed the Ramayana, overcoming objections to establish himself in the field of knowledge.
In Malayalam, there were various poetic traditions before him. However, he is hailed as the father of the Malayalam language for systematising it and imbuing it with eloquence and beauty. He had a remarkable ability to blend Sanskrit with Malayalam, thereby enriching the language.
Contrary to popular belief, he did not directly translate Valmiki's Ramayanam. Instead, .