MY KOLLAM
K.B. Ganesh Kumar
Minister for Transport
Kollam—a name that dances through the corridors of time with the grace of an ancient melody, whispered by the winds of history, echoing through the tall coconut palms, and murmured by the ripples of Ashtamudi Lake. It is a district that does not simply exist on a map; it breathes, lives, and pulses in the heart of every person who calls it home. As I reflect upon this cherished land, when I say Ente Kollam, it is not just a poetic expression but a living truth that I hold close, a part of my very soul. Kollam is not defined solely by its geographical features; it is the custodian of memories, a treasure trove of culture, and an endless source of inspiration.
Its rivers, its people, and its stories are all intertwined to create a tapestry that shapes the identity of its residents. These hills and valleys are not just physical landmarks but the very heartbeat of my existence, having nurtured me, formed my consciousness, and guided me through life. To say I have a deep connection with this land would be an understatement; it is the very fabric of who I am. The allure of Kollam is not merely confined to its physical beauty but also lies in the depth of its culture. The traditional art forms, the rituals, and the folklore are an indelible part of its identity. Whether it is the rhythmic beat of the chenda, the grace of Mohiniyattam, or the spiritual significance of the Kottarakkara Maha Ganapathy Temple, Kollam pulses with life and tradition in a way that cannot be replicated elsewhere.
The district is home to a myriad of customs and celebrations that bind its people together in a shared cultural embrace. Kollam, a land steeped in ancient tales, draws its heart from the timeless town of Pathanapuram. Nestled at the edge of Tamil Nadu, this town once thrived as the grandest marketplace of the Kingdom of Travancore. Here, in the quiet of the forests, elephants captured from the wild were tamed and trained, their majestic presence now entwined with the very essence of Pathanapuram. It is said that Pathanapuram originated from the name Pathaana Puram.
A journey along the Kollam–Shenkottah metre-gauge railway offers a glimpse into another world. Winding through the rolling hills of the Kallada River and the enchanting forests of Thenmala, the train ride remains an indelible memory for all who have traversed its scenic path. Yet, the true soul of Kollam lies in the unity of its diverse people—where caste and creed are woven into the same tapestry of life. I remember with fondness the days of my youth when the festivals would transform the entire district into a vibrant celebration.
In the glow of festival lights at the Kottarakkara Temple, the sacred hum of prayers at the Kollurvila Mosque, and the resonant hymns at the Kollam Port Church, the spirit of the land rises as one. Kollam, a place where the rhythms of celebration sing in unison, becomes not just a town but a living, breathing testament to togetherness. As I look to the future, I cannot help but feel immense pride in the progress Kollam has made over the years. From its role as a vital trade port to its burgeoning educational institutions and growing tourism industry, Kollam has evolved without losing its soul. The district has embraced modernity while preserving the values and traditions that make it so special.
As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of Kollam, it is essential to recognise the long journey this district has undertaken, not just in terms of physical growth but in the enrichment of its people’s lives. As we look toward the future, I remain confident in the potential of Kollam. The district will continue to evolve, undoubtedly, but it will never lose the essence of what makes it unique. Kollam, in its entirety—the land, the culture, and the people—will forever be an inspiration, a muse, and, above all, my home. As we commemorate the 75th anniversary of Kollam’s districthood, let us not forget that this celebration is not merely of an administrative unit but of a spirit—a spirit that endures, a spirit that flows through the hearts of all who call this place home. May Kollam continue to thrive, and may its love for its people and its heritage never fade.