Tyndis Biennale to celebrate Malabar’s maritime, cultural legacy

Ponnani is abuzz with the announcement of the Malabar Tyndis Cultural Biennale in the revised State Budget, a project intended to showcase the region’s maritime, cultural and trading heritage.

Tyndis, identified with present-day Ponnani, was a major port of the Chera kingdom. While Vanchi served as the political capital, Tyndis emerged as a commercial centre linking the Malabar Coast with Egypt, Persia and other parts of the ancient world through the spice trade. The port was connected to the hinterland through the Perar, now known as the Bharathapuzha or Nila.

The announcement has also renewed interest in Tirunavaya’s Mamankam festival, regarded by historians as one of the earliest trade fairs in the region, reflecting Malabar’s role in international commerce and cultural exchange.

The Biennale is expected to highlight the legacy of Ponnani and Malabar, including the contributions of Thunchath Ezhuthachan, the Zamorins, the Kunjali Marakkars, the Makhdooms, Umar Qazi, the Great Mosque of Ponnani, the Canoli Canal, Arab-Malayalam literature, the Ponnani script and Kalaripayattu martial art traditions.

K.P. Noushadali, MLA, who initiated the proposal for the Biennale, said discussions on its structure and programme were under way. “We expect the event to strengthen cultural ties with regions that shared historical links with Malabar through trade and maritime exchange,” he said.

Mr. Noushadali said the Biennale could also help bring greater attention to Malabar as a cultural tourism destination. Preparatory discussions have been completed, and the project has now received official backing through the State Budget.

“It is the first time a biennale in the State has received support through the Budget,” he said, pointing out its importance.