Conservation of olappamanna mana, vellinezhi, Palakkad

Abstract

The traditional ancestral homes of Kerala, known as Manas, represent a unique synthesis of architectural, cultural, and social values shaped by centuries of historical evolution. Olappamanna Mana, located in Vellinezhi, stands as a significant example of the Namboothiri Brahmin heritage, reflecting the multifaceted character of Kerala’s vernacular architecture. Set against the backdrop of Kerala’s distinctive geography, climate, and social structure, the Mana complex embodies the spatial organization, craftsmanship, and intangible traditions that have defined the region’s built environment. This study undertakes a comprehensive investigation into the cultural significance, architectural typology, and conservation challenges of Olappamanna Mana. The research draws on detailed field documentation-including measured drawings, joinery details, construction techniques, and material mapping-supplemented by literature review and stakeholder engagement. The analysis is framed within the broader context of Kerala’s settlement history, the evolution of caste-based residential forms, and the impact of socio-economic transformations, particularly the effects of the Land Reform Act and the dissolution of the joint family system. The Mana complex is characterized by its multifunctional layout, comprising residential, ritual, and cultural spaces organized around courtyards and ancillary structures such as the poomukham (entrance), nadumuttam (courtyard), and pathayappura (granary). The study highlights the tangible and intangible heritage values of the site, including its associations with traditional arts, crafts, literature, and ritual practices. However, the research also identifies significant threats to the preservation of Olappamanna Mana, including material deterioration, fragmented ownership, changing land use, and the erosion of traditional knowledge systems. A critical aspect of the study is the identification and analysis of both tangible and intangible heritage values, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to conservation. The documentation is limited to the main courtyard residence due to ownership constraints, yet provides a representative understanding of the Mana’s architectural and cultural essence. The study also acknowledges the limitations in documenting all associated structures and art forms in the village, focusing instead on the core Mana complex. A key objective of the thesis is to formulate a conservation plan and adaptive reuse recommendations for Olappamanna Mana. Comparative analysis with similar heritage sites, such as Paliam Palace, informs the development of contextually appropriate strategies that balance the need for structural stabilization, functional revitalization, and community participation. The proposed interventions emphasize the use of traditional materials and techniques, the revival of cultural practices, and the establishment of sustainable management frameworks. By documenting and analysing the architectural and cultural significance of Olappamanna Mana, this study seeks to raise awareness of the urgent need to protect Kerala’s fast-disappearing Manas. The research contributes to the broader discourse on heritage conservation by providing specific guidelines for the maintenance, protection, and adaptive reuse of traditional residential complexes, ensuring their continued relevance as living embodiments of Kerala’s cultural identity.