In the 1998 publication titled “Kottapalayam / Kampal Naidu,” based on the work of French Missionary Priest Adrien Launay in 1898, historical accounts unfold. According to the narrative, the Valavikara Vadugar Family of Kottapalayam (possibly led by Kampal Naidu) originally resided in Madurai.
The family’s relocation from Madurai to Uppiliburam was prompted by their objection to a marriage proposal involving one of the family’s girls and a Cammala Vadugar Prince. Settling in Uppiliburam, the family worshipped Lord Perumal from the Kirambur mountains. However, they faced a mysterious ailment affecting their children, characterized by frequent blood vomiting, turning milk red when boiled.
A turning point occurred when a Catholic beggar from Prattacudy, passing by, sought benediction from priests and imparted Catholic principles. Her blessings resulted in the cessation of the ailment. Subsequently, family members chose to embrace Catholicism, marking their conversion in the latter half of the 17th century.
Guided by a missionary’s advice, they abandoned Uppiliburam, becoming the pioneers of Kottapalayam, an area initially overgrown with thorns and bushes. The family constructed a small chapel with a thatched roof. Later, a Jesuit Father, likely Saveriar Suamy, initiated the construction of the actual church (old church), incorporating the heart, walls, and pillars. During festivals, a pandal was installed.
The completion of the church, as seen today (old church), was accomplished by Daïrianada Suamy (Father Beshi). Following the Jesuit administration’s disappearance, Goan priests assumed control of the area’s administration.
External links
Gowri Koolapathi Kampal Naidu.
History of The Saint Mary Magdalene Church in Kottapalayam and History of Gowri Koolapathi Kampal Naidu Family
Tambu Chettiyar Charitram
Histoire des missions de l ‘ Inde, Pondichéry, Maïssour, Coïmbatour. Tome 1 / par Adrien Launay,…1898. Author : Launay, Adrien (1853–1927).