Kannur: A new chapter in preserving Kerala’s migration history was marked today with the inauguration of the Bishop Valloppilly Memorial Migration Museum at Chempanthotti. Minister Ramachandran Kadannappally formally opened the first phase of the museum, which documents how waves of migration shaped the Malabar region and contributed to the state’s development story.
The Minister noted that the museum would serve as the introductory gallery to a larger, more expansive project in the pipeline. “This initiative highlights the struggles and resilience of Malabar’s migrant communities. The second phase will further expand this effort with extensive projects,” he said at the ceremony.
The event was presided over by MLA Sajeev Joseph. As part of the function, a symbolic ceremony was held in which copper and brass items collected by the Thalassery Archdiocese were handed over for the making of a statue of Bishop Valloppilly, which will be installed within the museum premises.
Built on a one-acre plot leased for 99 years by the Chempanthotti Forona Church under the Archdiocese of Thalassery, the project was funded through the State Archaeology Department. The inaugural event witnessed the presence of several dignitaries, including District Panchayat President K.K. Ratnakumari, former Minister K.C. Joseph, and Thalassery Archbishop Mar Joseph Pamplani.
Sreekantapuram Municipality Chairperson Dr. K.V. Philomina, along with various Panchayat presidents, cultural leaders, and representatives from state bodies, also addressed the gathering. Sculptor Unni Kanayi, entrusted with creating the Bishop’s statue, was among those honored at the function.
The museum, envisioned as a living archive of Malabar’s migration saga, is set to become both a cultural landmark and a research hub, bridging community memory with Kerala’s larger heritage narrative.