Late Mr. P. T. Varughese, Panamthodathil House, Kuriannoor
A member of Kuriannoor Mar Thoma Parish
P.T. Varghese, Panamthodathil House
The story of India’s freedom struggle is filled with the names of great leaders and well-known freedom fighters. Yet, behind the larger national movement were countless ordinary men and women who made personal sacrifices for the cause of freedom. Many of their stories have remained largely unknown and forgotten.
One such individual from Kuriannoor was Late Mr. P. T. Varughese of Panamthodathil House, a member of the Kuriannoor Mar Thoma Parish, also known as Neelethu Palli, Kuriannoor East.
Early Life
P. T. Varughese was born in 1903 in Kuriannoor to Panamthodathil Thomas and Kuriannoor Plathottathil Aleyamma. His family were members of the Kuriannoor Mar Thoma Parish.
After passing his School Final Examination, Varughese was planning to travel to Singapore in search of better opportunities. At the time, many people from Kuriannoor were already working in Singapore. As Singapore was part of the British Empire, travelling there was relatively straightforward, and passports and visas were not required in the manner they are today. Regular shipping services operated from Madras to Singapore.
With this plan in mind, Varughese travelled to Madras to board a ship for Singapore. However, his life was about to take a very different direction.
The Call of Mahatma Gandhi
While in Madras, Varughese was deeply influenced by Mahatma Gandhi’s call to join the Non-Cooperation Movement.
Launched by Mahatma Gandhi on August 1, 1920, the Non-Cooperation Movement was India’s first large-scale, non-violent mass struggle against British rule. The movement sought to achieve Swaraj, or self-governance, by encouraging Indians to withdraw their support from British colonial institutions.
Inspired by Gandhi’s message, Varughese abandoned his plans to travel to Singapore and instead chose to dedicate himself to India’s freedom struggle.
After joining the Non-Cooperation Movement, he began wearing the white Gandhi cap and khadi clothes, a practice he continued throughout the rest of his life.
A Life Dedicated to Service
Varughese actively participated in the freedom movement and remained committed to the ideals that had inspired him in his youth. He was known as a straightforward person who never sought positions, wealth or personal recognition.
He remained an active member of the Indian National Congress until his death and was deeply involved in political, social and religious activities in and around Tiruvalla.
Although he never became a nationally recognised political figure, his commitment to the freedom movement reflected the contribution made by countless ordinary Indians whose efforts formed the foundation of the struggle for independence.
Life in Tiruvalla and Kuriannoor
Varughese lived in Kuriannoor until around 1970, after which he moved to Amalloor, near Tiruvalla.
He was also associated with the newspaper and publishing world. He served as the Manorama newspaper agent in Tiruvalla and promoted several English-language publications, including The Illustrated Weekly and Reader’s Digest.
Shri Varughese was a close friend of Shri Pattom A. Thanu Pillai, former chief minister (2nd Chief Minister of Kerala from 1960 to 1962). Once passing through Tiruvalla, the Chief Minister saw Varughese selling newspapers at S.C. Junction. While resting in TB (Travelers’ Bungalow Tiruvilla), the Chief Minister called Varughese to TB. At that time, the government was distributing land to freedom fighters. Varughese was asked to give an application but he refused to submit an application saying “I will never accept a reward for upholding my mother’s dignity”.
~ Note from Mr. Thomas Mathen Thadeethrayil
His interests and activities extended beyond politics. He remained actively engaged in the social and religious life of the community, maintaining his connections with people and institutions around Tiruvalla and Kuriannoor.
Family
Varughese married Mariamma, daughter of Chacko of Kaiuzhasseril House, Valakkuzhy. His family is part of Kaleekav Vazholil Family.
The couple had two daughters:
Aleyamma Varughese
Annamma Varughese
Remembering an Unsung Freedom Fighter
P. T. Varughese passed away on 20 July 1989. He was laid to rest at the Amalloor Mar Thoma Parish Cemetery.
His life is a reminder that the Indian freedom movement was not shaped only by the leaders whose names appear in history books. It was also strengthened by people like Varughese, who made personal choices, gave up opportunities for a different life and committed themselves to the cause of freedom.
A young man who had travelled to Madras with dreams of a future in Singapore instead chose to respond to the call of Mahatma Gandhi. He exchanged the prospect of a new life overseas for khadi clothes, the Gandhi cap and a life dedicated to the ideals of India’s independence movement.
Today, the story of P. T. Varughese of Kuriannoor deserves to be remembered—not necessarily as the story of a famous freedom fighter, but as that of an unsung participant in India’s struggle for freedom, whose quiet dedication formed part of the larger story of the nation.
There have been several great souls in the Syrian Christian Community who rose to partake in the freedom struggle for India’s Independence. As India celebrates another year of Independence on 15th August, Nalloor Library would like our readers to remember a few freedom fighters who represented the Syrian Christian community and share their stories in their Sunday Schools and meetings across the world. This list is no means a complete list and only four have been chosen as representatives. We salute each and every freedom fighter across this great nation who participated in the freedom struggle and those who gave their lives for India’s freedom. Jai Hind!
Shri Thevarthundiyil Titus also known as ‘Titusji’ – Dandi March
The historic Dandi Salt march by Mahatma Gandhi in 1930 triggered the wider Civil Disobedience Movement leading to India’s freedom from the British. Among the marchers that would change India’s destiny was just one Christian and a Mar Thomite, Shri Thevarthundiyil Titus also known as ‘Titusji’. A devout Gandhian – he was known by the name Titus in his earlier days. “Titusji” was the name given to him by Mahatma Gandhi as a token of love and honour.
Mr. O. C. Chacko of the Indian National Army (INA)
Mr. O. C. Chacko was part of the Indian National Army (INA) of Subash Chandhra Bose and member of the Kuriannoor Mar Thoma Church, Pathanamthitta, Kerala. We post a link to a write up that was published on his 100th (centenary) birth anniversary.
General Secretary of the Mar Thoma Sunday School Samajam. He was the only Mar Thoma Priest who is recognized and awarded as a freedom fighter by the Government. Before his ordination, he was in jail for almost a year for his participation in the Freedom movement of India.
George Joseph, a barrister, fiery nationalist, avant-garde journalist, pioneer trade unionist, and ardent champion of important public causes, has etched an indelible place in the history of India’s war for Independence. He hailed from Kerala and was not just a pioneer in several fields, he was also a staunch supporter of Annie Besant’s Home Rule movement and Gandhiji’s Non-Cooperation movement during India’s freedom struggle.
He was born in Chenganoor (Kerala) in 1887, which at that time was part of the Travancore Kingdom. He completed his Law at the University of Edinburgh and it was during his stay in London that he became acquainted with notable freedom fighters like Madam Cama, S K Verma, S R Rana, and Veer Savarkar. He returned to India after finishing his education and though he established his legal practice initially in Chennai, he eventually shifted it to Madurai. George Joseph went on to become a famous criminal lawyer in Madurai. From the time he started practising there, he championed the cause of Madurai’s tribes, such as the Piramalai Kallars and Maravars. In 1920, following the Perungamanallur firing (also referred to as the Jallianwalla Bagh of the South), the British implemented the Criminal Tribes Act, labelling these groups as criminals. He vehemently opposed the Act by voicing his opinions in newspapers and he also represented these communities in court proceedings. The residents of these settlements gave him the name ‘Rosapoo Durai’ (a Rose amongst Leaders), as a symbol of their gratitude. ~indianculture.gov.in
A Brief History – with rare Church Consecration videos from 2005
Old undated photo of the old Kuriannoor Mar Thoma Church and the present church building. (Images from Nalloor Library Archives)
Video Part 01 – The newly built Kuriannoor Mar Thoma Church building was consecrated on 3rd September 2005 by His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Philipose Mar Chrysostom Mar Thoma Metropolitan in the presence of Dr. Joseph Mar Irenaeus Suffragan Metropolitan. The Mar Thoma Church in Kuriannoor was established in 1879.
Video Part 02 – The newly built Kuriannoor Mar Thoma Church building was consecrated on 3rd September 2005 by His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Philipose Mar Chrysostom Mar Thoma Metropolitan in the presence of Dr. Joseph Mar Irenaeus Suffragan Metropolitan. The Mar Thoma Church in Kuriannoor was established in 1879.
St. Thomas, the Apostle of Jesus Christ, came to India in A.D.52 and established 7 churches in the Malabar Coast of Kerala, in South India. Niranam St. Mary’s Church was one among them. Believers in and around Niranam, Changanassery, Edathua, Chambakulam, Chengannur, Maramon, Kalloopara, Chennithala, Paliyekkara and Puthiyakavu used to worship in that Church. Members of the Niranam Parish, who were staying in Maramon area, found it extremely difficult to attend church services in Niranam regularly.
In those days, country boats (Kettuvallams) were the only mode of transportation (there were no road transport facilities). This led the believers in the Maramon area to establish the Maramon Mar Thoma Church on 28 August A.D.1440. Our forefathers worshiped in the Maramon Church until a Mar Thoma Church in Kuriannoor was established in 1879.
The year 1837 bore witness to a spiritual reformation in the Mar Thoma Church, mainly under the leadership of Palakkunnathu Abraham Malpan Achen (1796-1845). The reforms included translation of liturgy into Malayalam, emphasis on the study of the Holy Bible, family worship, and evangelization of the Gospel. Abolition of prayers for the dead and some unscriptural practices, such as statues, invocation of saints and some unhealthy veneration of sacraments were banned.
As there were no proper roads, the journey from Kuriannoor to Maramon was difficult and tedious, especially for funerals during the monsoon season. The Neelethu Pallikkoodam, a shed on bamboo poles, thatched with coconut leaves that was being used as a prayer hall cum school, was altered as the Mar Thoma Church, Kuriannoor in the year 1879 by Thomas Mar Athanasius Metropolitan (1837-1893 The Mar Thoma XIV). Rahoor Scariah Kathanar was the first Vicar of the Kuriannoor Church.
Two of the Mar Thoma Metropolitans, viz. Titus I Mar Thoma (Dethose Kathanar (1843-1909) and Titus II Mar Thoma (P. J. Dethose Kathanar (1866-1944) were vicars of our parish when they were achens. Due to an increase in the membership/population, St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church was formed in 1897 and Salem Mar Thoma Church in 1902.
Rev. M.C. George, (1874-1923) Maliyekkal was the first full time priest for Kuriannoor from 1903 as former vicars were in charge of Maramon Church as well. The English School, Kuriannoor was started in 1921 thanks to the leadership of Rev. M.C. George. Rev. T.M. Mathai (1883-1970) Punnathundiyil was our vicar from 1924.
During the leadership of Titus II Mar Thoma Metropolitan, a beautiful church building was constructed under the leadership of Vicars Rev. K.I. Varkey (1877-1948), Kizhakkethalakkal, Edathua, Rev. K.M. Mathai (1899-1959), Kuttamathayyethu, Puthenkavu, and Rev. Abraham Mathew (1902-1960), Elamittethu, Moovattupuzha Valakom. Our forefathers spent about eight years and a sum of Rs. 3150/- to complete their ardent desire of a place of worship. It was dedicated on 12th April 1940.
All the three Mar Thoma Churches in Kuriannoor were under the Vicarship of a single Achen till 1963. Rev. M. V. Abraham, Ashtamudy was the first Vicar who was solely in-charge of our parish. He managed to purchase 28 cents of land for a parsonage for Rs. 7500/-. Our first parsonage was completed in 1969 under the leadership of Rev. C. M. Thomas (1907-2001), Cherukara, Ayroor and Rev. K. A. Joshua, Mallassery.
The Centenary of the Church was celebrated during the year 1979 under the leadership of Rev. P. M. Samuel, Nelladu. Twenty cents of land adjacent to the church compound was purchased in December 1977, and the Centenary Hall was built there, which was consecrated on 6th May 1979.
Construction of the present, spacious and beautiful church building, with a parish hall underneath, was commenced during the year 2001, the plan of which was approved during the tenure of Rev. James M. Koshy Veeramala as Vicar. Rev. Achenkunju Mathew, and Rev. M.V. George (1952-2012) subsequent Vicars of the parish, worked tirelessly to complete the Church building, which was consecrated on 3rd September 2005 by His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Philipose Mar Chrysostom Metropolitan in the presence of H.G. Dr. Joseph Mar Irenaeus Suffragan Metropolitan.
Rev. M. V. George laid down the idea for the present parsonage in the year 2008, which was completed during the tenure of Rev. M. Mathew as Vicar. The new parsonage was consecrated by His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Thoma Metropolitan on 23rd March 2010.
Rev. M.C. George (1874-1923), Maliyekkal, Rev. T.M. Mathai (1883-1970), Punnathundiyil, Rev. C.M. Thomas (1893-1956), Kochuparampil, and Rev. C.M. Abraham (1923-2008), Cheriyavadakkedathu, who were strong pillars of the Mar Thoma Church in the past belonged to our parish.
Ambattu Varkey Upadeshi, Poozhikkalayil Ipe Mathen (1796-1890) Poozhikkalayil Thomma Upadeshi (1830-1912), Cherukattu Geevarghese Upadeshi, Thanathodathil Mathen Upadeshi, Kolabhagathu Geevarghese Ashan (1855-1938), Eruthikkal E.V. Philip Sar, Nalloor Joseph Sar (1910-1992) etc. were strong lay leaders of our parish in the past.
“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” ~ Jeremiah 17:7-8 | NIV
Founders of Hoskote Mission – Mr. M. T. Joseph and Rev. A.C. Zachariah
The Hoskote Mission Medical Center was established in 1947 in Hoskote, Bangalore Rural District, Karnataka by two missionaries Mr. M. T. Joseph and Mr. A.C. Zachariah along with their wives Mariamma Joseph and Saramma Zachariah.
The Short Story of the Beginnings of Hoskote Mission
Listen to a rare 42 year old recording to commemorate the Anniversary of the Hoskote Mission Field on 27 June 2026.
The recording was done in June 1984 during Mrs Mariamma Joseph’s (co-founder of the mission) address to the Dubai Mar Thoma Parish. She spoke about the beginning of Hoskote Mission and the challenges faced by the pioneering missionaries.
As part of this anniversary, Nalloor Library presents a free Ebook version of – ‘From his majesty’s service to His Majesty’s Service’ (Pioneers of Hoskote Mission) released in December 2003.
Articles in the book are in both English and Malayalam and include recollections from the late Rt. Rev. Dr. Alexander Mar Thoma Valia Metropolitan, late Rt. Rev. Philipose Mar Thoma Valia Metropolitan, late Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Thoma Metropolitan, Rt. Rev. Joseph Mar Barnabas Suffragan Metropolitan, Acharya Rev. K. J. Samuel, late Very. Rev. C. G. Alexander, late Rev. Dr. K. P. Mathai, Rev. E. J. George and more.
Contents
English
Manon Ousephachen – Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Irenaeus Suffragan Metropolitan
Builders of the Kingdom of God -Rt. Rev. Joseph Mar Barnabas Episcopa
Speaking Ill of Others ! – Acharya Rev. K. J. Samuel
A Reflection on the life of Mr. and Mrs. M.T. Joseph – Rev. P. V. Philip
A Pillar in the Temple of God – Rev. P. Chacko and Mrs. Thankamma Chacko
Blessing Harper -Miss Blessing
Consolation Letter -Rev. A.C. Zachariah
Appachen -Dr. Rajan Koshy
M.T. Joseph -Very. Rev. C. G. Alexander
Impressions and Reflections -Mrs. E. V. Mathew
Early Days of Pennamma (Mrs. M.T. Joseph)
Memoirs of ‘Hoskote Ashram’, the place where I grew up -Thomas Joseph (Jay)
A more excellent way – Grace John
My Beloved Mother – Grace John
Hoskote Mission – Rev. Dr. K. P. Mathai
Photos
Malayalam
My Memories about Hoskote Mission Field – Rt. Rev. Dr. Alexander Mar Thoma Valia Metropolitan.
Classmate of my Brother -Rt. Rev. Philipose Mar Chrysostom Mar Thoma Metropolitan
Sweet Memories -Mary and Sally
Joseph Sar and family -Witnesses of Christ in Hoskote -Mr. K. V. Mathew
The Torch Bearers of the Gospel in Karnataka -Mr. V. Mathai
Appachen -Ms. P.T. Mariamma
Unforgettable Memories -Mr. T. M. Koshy, Evangelist
Memories, Memories … -Rev. E. J. George
Joseph Sar and Kochamma still alive in my memory – Ms. Aleyamma Mathew
Two Brave Martyrs for Christ – Mr. K. V. Varghese
Appachen and Ammachi in our Memories – Rev. P. E. Mathew and Mrs. Laly Mathew
Remembrance News Article – Suvisesha Doothan – Magazine of the Mar Thoma Evangelistic Association (MTEA)
MTEA General Secretary’s Letter – Article – Suvisesha Doothan – Magazine of the Mar Thoma Evangelistic Association (MTEA)
About the Writers
Note:
This book is a collection of memories penned down by people who have closely interacted or worked with Mr. and Mrs. M. T. Joseph (Co-founders of Hoskote Mission). This book comes from a need that old memories of the pioneers would encourage and inspire more people to join the ministry and take up from where they left. History repeats itself and the only way people would be inspired to carry on with this great legacy we have been handed down is to read and pass on the memories of yesteryears.
Almost all the people who have contributed to this book are people who have done their part in building up the Kingdom of God. This is not a book to highlight or to downplay any individual’s work but rather an attempt to preserve and record history of the past events. It would be a testimony to show how God uses ordinary people from all walks of life simultaneously to carry out His mission and work of letting the whole world know of His Saving Grace.
We earnestly pray and believe that this book will inspire many of you to pray and support the work of the Hoskote Mission.
The past thirteen years have truly been a blessing, made possible through your continued support, encouragement, and readership. As we celebrate this anniversary, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you who has been part of this journey.
What began as a simple dream has now reached readers across the globe, with lakhs of visitors to our website from almost every corner of the world. Your feedback, prayers, and constant encouragement have inspired us to continue expanding and making more valuable resources available to our community.
Over the years, readers and parishes from near and far have shared how these resources are being used in parish bulletins, Sunday School lessons, VBS programs, summer camps, sermons, prayer groups, and many other ministries. Along this journey, we have also been blessed to build meaningful friendships, while social media has helped us share the rich cultural heritage and traditions of our Church with a wider audience.
We humbly ask that you continue to keep Nalloor Library in your prayers as we move forward with renewed commitment and gratitude.
“Praise the Lord! Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!” Psalm 106:1
We remember the life of Bishop Easow Mar Timotheos, whose ministry and legacy continues inspire younger generations in the Mar Thoma Church today. He will be remembered for his earnest service, prayerful nature and genuine care for his people. Even after becoming a bishop, Timotheos thirumeni sat with the common people on the floor, while attending prayer meetings.
25 November, 1932: Birth of Bishop Easow Mar Timotheos (d.11 Apr.1988). Bishop Easow Mar Timotheos was a member of Valiyaparampil Family of Thonniyamala near Pathanamthitta. He was a permanent member of our Sihora Ashram from 1951-to 1972.
He became deacon on 15 Oct. 1961; priest on 4 March 1962, Ramban on 11 January 1975 and Bishop on 8 Feb 1975. His life of prayer and deep spiritual experience were his special characteristics. He was deeply interested in the rural development activities. Being also in charge of the parishes in the Arabian Gulf area, he raised funds from there for the development of Malabar area. He passed away in 1988 while visiting our parishes in the Andamans Islands and was buried at Tiruvalla.
20 November, 1904: Death of Stephanos Kathanar – Author of “Shayana Namaskaram” (Mar Thoma Shayana Namaskaram).
Stephanos Kathanar (born on 14 June 1852) was a member of Kallarakkal Peedikayil family of Thazhahkkara, Mavelikkara. He became a deacon at the age of 8. He was an expert teacher of the Syrian Language.
In 1897, he established Thazhakkara Mar Thoma Church and started a library for the parish. Achen is the author of The Shayana Namaskaram– (prayer song usually sung with the evening family prayer or public worship) “njangalkullha karthave…” which is still used by many Kerala Christians. Many Malayalaee Christian groups also use it for their common evening worships during the lent season.
Stephanos Kathanar was called to his eternal home on 20 Nov 1904.
Achen’s grandson Dr. Samuel Mathai was the Vice-Chancellor of the Kerala University.
“The Mar Thoma Suvisesha Sevika Sanghom owes much to the self sacrificing work of Mrs. Kandamma Varghese who worked untiringly as the Organizing Secretary for over 20 years, traveling far and wide, organizing branches in the parishes, doing evangelistic work among Christians, building up the work in parishes.” ~ The Mar Thoma Church, Heritage and Mission – Alexander Mar Thoma Metropolitan.
Mrs. Kandamma was a modest person in wearing jewellery. She used to request people who had more than one gold chain to donate the second one for gospel work. Due to Kandamma’s loving approach to the wife of Diwan Bhadur Dr. V. Varghese sold her ornaments and donated the money for the construction of the Salem Orphanage in Tiruvalla.
The Mar Thoma Suvisesha Sevika Sanghom was established in 1919 during the Maramon Convention, under the leadership of Abraham Mar Thoma Suffragan Metropolitan, who gave the women’s organization continuous support and inspiration. Mrs. Kandamma Varghese (born 1876), Chruthuruthiyil, Thumpamon was the first traveling, organizing secretary of the Sevika Sanghom.
Bullock Cart transport (for illustrative purposes)
During the nearly 20 years of service she travelled far and wide to almost all corners of Travancore. In those days there were no proper roads, so she had to walk miles to her work and used bullock carts to visit distant places. One of her annual reports submitted to the Sevika Sanghom reads like this: “Visited Puthen Cavu, Kundara… (Names of so many parishes are given), etc. Conducted 101 special meetings for women, 38 meetings for girls, visited 236 Christian homes, 70 non Christian homes, personally interacted with 415 people, distributed 700 tracts, 90 gospel portions etc…”
After serving many years as a Traveling Secretary, she became the General Secretary of the Sanghom. She put a firm foundation for the smooth running of various departments of the Sevika Sanghom. When the Sanghom started the Salem Bhavanam (Orphanage) in 1923, Kandamma took up that responsibility as well. She adopted orphan children who were previously looked after by Mrs. Sosamma Eappen of Kotturethu Chengannur.
Kandamma spent her final days in Perumbavoor with her son Mr. C. V. Koshy who was the headmaster of the Ashram High school there. She was called to her eternal home on 9 November, 1964 at the age of 88. In her memory, the Mar Thoma Suvisesha Sevika Sanghom has collected a Memorial fund of Rs.15,000 (in 1964 this was a big amount) and the interest collected from this fund is still being used for the theological education of the women who are willing to do full time Gospel work.
She leaves behind a glowing legacy of her work in Kerala to inspire more young women of the church.
Mrs. Kandamma Varghese – Mar Thoma Suvisesha Sevika Sanghom
Read more details in our free pdf E-book which is also an excellent resource for Sunday Schools and church organizations.
2nd November 2025 : World Sunday School Day – The first Sunday of the Month of November is celebrated throughout the world as Sunday School Day. The Mar Thoma/ CSI/ CNI churches are celebrating Sunday, 2nd November, 2025 as World Sunday School Day.
Robert Raikes (1735- 1811), an English Publisher, started the first Sunday School in the city of Gloucester in England in 1780. During the early days, reading, arithmetic and Bible was taught at the Sunday Schools.
Inscription on the tomb of Robert Raikes.
In 1809, Church representatives of the Malankara Churches held a meeting at Kandanadu Church, near Ernakualam to arrange facilities to teach children in the Church about religion, prayers and sacraments. The India Sunday School Union was founded in 1876.
The Mar Thoma Sunday School Samajam was established on 25 February 1905, at the Maramon Convention.
A Must Watch Special Documentary with rare footage on the Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church – (English/Malayalam) produced in 1986. It offers a peek into the history, rich culture and heritage of the Mar Thoma Syrian Church. A Malaysian presentation in conjunction with the 150th Anniversary of the REFORMATION in the Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church.
Children in Gloucester unveil statue of Robert Raikes, founder of Sunday School in 1930.
New research has uncovered a numbering error about the edition of the Maramon Convention. The world-famous Maramon Convention was first held in 1895 (Malayalam Year 1070) and has been taking place annually ever since on the sand banks of the River Pamba. The 130th Maramon Convention was held in 2025, from February 9th to 16th.
However, there is a possible error in the way the convention years have been numbered. Historical research by the Nalloor Library editorial team into the Mar Thoma Church archives have found evidence to support the fact that an error make have happened in the numbering of the Maramon Convention editions.
According to the Annual Report of the Mar Thoma Evangelistic Association for 1940 (Malayalam Year 1115), which is publicly available, the Maramon Convention was not held on four occasions due to various reasons. Possible, reasons could include the great flood in 1924 and World War I. A topic for future researchers in the church to follow up. The 42nd Maramon Convention took place from February 18-25, 1940 (M.E. 1115, Kumbam 6-13).
Images courtesy Mar Thoma Animation Centre
As a result, perhaps a correction needs to be made to the numbering of the 2026 Maramon Convention going forward. This post does not lay blame on any person or organization, however, it is solely to point out historical facts from the archives as given.
Nalloor Library 