22-November-2006
Mathrubhumi dt. 22nd Nov. 2006
About the Celebration of
'Thamukku'
Perunnal- Dec.1, 2, 3 (Vrushchikam 20)
(Remembrance of St: Eldho mar Bassalios Mapriano)
In 1685 His Holiness Eldho Mor Baselios Mapriano visited Malankara. In spite of his old age and body weakness he traveled this long to visit his children in Malankara. He lived here only for 13 days after which he was called to his eternal home his Holy remains were laid to rest at the Marthoman Cheriyapalli Kothamangalam. It is believed that in his short stay at Malankara his devotees from Karingachira Church went up to Kothamangalam and offered him a special food item which later became world wide known as THAMUKKU. 'THAMUKKU' is the tastiest special food item prepared using sugar, rice and banana, familiar with Karingachira people. It is the ritual offering item for the celebration.Years later the holi remains of Eldo Mor Baselios Bhava was engraved on the northern wall of the church. As a remembrance of this from that year onwards this day Vrichikam 20th is celebrated as the main Perunnal of the church. The same THAMUKKU which was offered to bhava became the famous Thamukku Nercha. In the later years the perunnal happen to be celebrated beginning with Kodiyettam on Dec 1st. Dec 3rd is the main Perunnal day. From Dec 1 st to 3rd thousands of people from distant parishes and hundreds of non christians come for the perunnal and offer Thamukku Nercha. In the recent years for the convenience of the pilgrims Thamukku is pre paired by the church and offered for the devotees to do there Nercha.
Website of the Karingachira St. George Cathedral
http://www.st.georgechurch.org/