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Chempil Arayan

(★ – 1809) – (Kerala)

Chempil Thailamparambil Anantha Padmanabhan Valiya Arayan Kankumaran, also known as Chempil Arayan, served as the Admiral of the fleet for Avittam Thirunal Balarama Varma, the King of Travancore. Born in Chempu, near Vaikom in Kottayam, Kerala, India, he participated in the Travancore War in 1809 under the command of Velu Thampi Dalawa. Among his accomplishments was leading an attack on Bolghatty Palace, the residence of the Company Resident, Colin Macaulay. The Resident narrowly escaped with his life by eluding the attackers through a tunnel and fleeing in a small boat. Although the Arayan was later captured and released after a ransom was paid, he ultimately died in battle against the Company’s forces.

Chempil Arayan was renowned for his naval exploits, which he carried out using the traditional Kerala boat called the “Odi Vallam.” Chempil Arayan’s ancestral home, known as Thailamparampil House, is located in Chempu, Vaikom, and his family members have preserved the Nalukettu and all the old artifacts used by Mr. Arayan, including his sword and stone statue. Chempil Arayan’s tomb is situated next to his ancestral home.