Abstract:
Beypore, which has been a shipbuilding center since the first century AD, was controlled by four Kovilakams (Nediyaal Kovilakam, Manayat Kovilakam, Karippa Puthiyakovilakam, and Panagad Kovilakam) from the Parappanad Dynasty. For trade, it was first thronged by Romans, then Chinese, Syrians, Arabs, and Europeans. It was further enlarged during the East India Company in the early nineteenth century. The Beypore Siva Temple is said to safeguard the entire kingdom. It was one of India's busiest ports. Calicut was a global business hub for merchants across the globe. According to famed Moroccan adventurer Ibn Battuta, it was "frequented by merchants from every corner of the earth."
Even though the glorious days of this port town are long gone, the locals are not yet ready to abandon the tradition of Uru("dhow" or "fat boat") making which is as old as Beypore. They construct little ships entirely made out of wood, which is considered the world's largest handicraft. They don't have any blueprints or designs, and they don't utilize any big machinery or tools. These majestic ships have been part of many wars and were promoted by Zamorins, the kings that ruled the north of Kerala to strengthen their navy force. It was also used as trading vessels in the past. Now 2 or 3 ships Uru are made yearly which is now treated and made as a luxury cruise which are mostly sold to the Royal families of Arabian countries The project's main aim is to revitalize the precinct of beypore pulimood beach which had a major facelift in the year 2010, but over years it has lost its charm and the infrastructures are in dilapidated state due to poor maintenance and other natural factors. The project will include a museum for preserving the rich history that the port town once had and other public amenities. Bringing these built forms and public realm to synergy and developing a dynamic and lively urban space is the intent of this project.
