Charithra Malika History Museum

Charithra Malika is a private museum in Amaravila, Thiruvananthapuram, focused on preserving the history and cultural heritage of erstwhile Travancore. Unlike a typical public museum, it was created by history enthusiast Abhilash Kumar and features a reconstructed architectural complex filled with thousands of antiques. 

History and construction

  • The project began with Abhilash Kumar's father, Titus Bhaghyanathan, who in the 1960s started moving a 300-year-old traditional Keralan mansion called Chuttumalika from the Kanyakumari district.
  • Abhilash Kumar revived the project in the 1990s, expanding it into the current complex. He has painstakingly collected over 4,800 antiques and 32 architectural elements to fill the space.
  • The complex is built in the traditional Nanchinad architectural style and is based on a concept of three worlds: the underground chamber (Pathalam), the ground-level structure (Bhoomi), and the upper structure (Akasha).
  • The 22,000-square-foot museum property includes underground areas and multiple structures built around an open courtyard. 

Exhibits and collections

The collections on display provide a detailed look into the lifestyle of people in southern Travancore. They include: 

  • Household items: Inscriptions and cooking utensils made from black granite, bronze, and brass.
  • Architectural elements: Traditional complex constructions in wood.
  • Weighing and measuring scales: Various types used in historical trade.
  • Lighting fixtures: Different kinds of traditional lamps and lanterns.
  • Unique artifacts: A bullock cart used by Mahatma Gandhi during his visit to Kanyakumari, an oil press, and a Belgian Tortoise Bell. 

Visiting the museum

  • Location: The museum is located in Amaravila, 18 km from Thiruvananthapuram, in a bylane near the excise checkpoint.
  • Experience: Visitors can explore the collection of antiquities and gain insight into Kerala's socio-cultural history. Abhilash Kumar, the owner, is known for sharing his traditional knowledge with visitors, including information on ancient traditions, martial arts like kalaripayattu, and traditional medicine.
  • Purpose: The museum serves as a way to preserve architectural grandeur and heritage that is at risk of being lost to younger generations. 

ചരിത്രം മാലിക ചരിത്ര മ്യൂസിയം