Edayur
Grama Panchayat

There is sufficient evidence to establish that human settlements existed in this region from very ancient times. The discovery of Nannangadis (burial urns), umbrella stones, and other archaeological remains from areas such as Pookkattiri and Mavandiyur provides evidence of this ancient habitation. Indigenous communities such as the Nayadis and Alars lived in the forests of this region. The main settlement of the Nayadis was located at a place called Nayadippara, to the south of Munakkal Palli.

Edayur is a Panchayat that reflects the richness of Kerala's traditional culture while preserving its own distinctive cultural identity. Although practices such as untouchability, social exclusion, and upper-caste dominance existed in the village in earlier times, today people belonging to different religions and holding diverse ideas and beliefs live together in harmony and mutual respect.

The three major religious communities—Hindu, Muslim, and Christian—reside in this Panchayat. A large number of families who migrated from Travancore settled in this area, contributing to the development of a mixed and diverse cultural heritage. Places of worship belonging to different religious communities can be found throughout the Panchayat.

Even though various forms of communal conflict have occurred at different places and periods in the State in general and in the district in particular, Edayur has remained distinct by upholding the values of religious harmony, peaceful coexistence, and social unity.

Munakkal Palli is one of the oldest mosques in the Panchayat. It is traditionally believed that the place came to be known as “Munakkal Palli” because three large aal trees once stood in the area.

The Pookkattiyur Temple is considered the oldest temple in the Panchayat and forms an important part of its cultural and religious heritage.

Several cultural organisations are actively functioning in the Panchayat. The region has also produced many talented artists who have gained recognition across the State. Among them are Thayambaka maestro Divakara Pothuval, renowned Kathaprasangam artist Ahmedkutty Moulavi, Mavandiyur P. P. M. Kutty Moulavi, and K. G. Pal, who was associated with the theatre field.

Edayur has also been a region where the amateur theatre movement flourished considerably. The Panchayat has made significant contributions to the field of sports as well, with many talented individuals and achievements emerging from the region.