LAKSHADWEEP ITS HISTORY

-Dr.C.N. Haneefakoya

Though early history of Lakshadweep is unwritten material and historical evidences shows inhabitation might have been originated during the Polynesian period. dr, N Muthukoya in his book Lakshadweep Nootandukaliloode( Lakshadweep through centuries) undeniably convince the local culture in par with the Polynesian traditions. The Buddhist monastery leftovers found in many islands points towards an early settlement. There have been few traditions also which are backing for the proof for the Buddhist theory. Later it is found many statutes of Krishna and other Hindu mythological heads which is pointing to the existence of Hindu religion. The first written proof about the islands dates back to the Hijra 41, futhuhathool jazair( triumph of the islands). The evidences undoubtedly pronounce that Hindu religion was in command during the conversion period by the saint Ubaaidullah. But, in spite of all material and cultural evidences some historians narrates the story of Cheraman Perumal the last king of Crangnore in connection with the first settlement on these islands. It is believed that the last settlers were Hindus; even now unmistakable Hindu social stratification exists in these islands; even after practicing Islam for many centuries.one such tradition is the matrilineal division of property. In all the islands this practice was in carried outbefore Tippu Sultan ruled northern group of islands. Tippu introduced the land division in respect to the sharia of Islamic tradition. Legends say that small settlements started in the islands of Amini, Kavaratti, Andrott and Kalpeni first and later people from these islands moved to other islands of Agatti, Chetlat and Kadmat.

Coin in 1840s

The coin in 1840s received while cleaning the house by dr. abdul gafoor, subject matter specialist, kvk Kiltan. The house is near muhiyiddeen masjid kavaratti.the house is owned by muhammed popularly known as H I Bamban House.Photo by Dr.Haneefakoya

Sweet Memories

Children’s participated in Independence Day in 1960s when Mr.moorkoth Ramunni was the Administrator

Nadan Pattu

Kalpeni Island

It is known for its scenic beauty and the small islets called Tilakkam and Pitti and an uninhabited island on the north called Cheriyam. A huge shallow lagoon encloses all of them. A peculiar feature of KALPENI atoll is the huge storm bank of coral debris along the eastern and south-eastern shorelines. It is believed that huge boulders were thrown up during a storm in 1847. It is a progressive island; it was in this island that girls first went to school, when womens education was considered a taboo

Bangaram Island

A bewitchingly beautiful and breath taking island in lakshadweep.BANGARAM is uninhabited.It is surrounded by a shallow lagoon enclosed by coral reef.It has been ranked among the best gateways of the world.Here the sun,sand and surf in harmony casting a spell on the visitor.It offers utmost privacy unpolluted comfort with crystal clear water.Sparkling coral reef and blue lagoon perform magic on the soul searching traveller.Its a place where Hemingway would create a classic or a Van Goph would paint a masterpiece.And who knows the muse may inspire one to create too.A matchless sence of well being takes over and one begins to discover the graceful fishes,porcupines ,parrots,pufferfishes,hermit crabs and sea birds on the vast 120 acres of lush coconut groves in BANGARAM.There are numerous adventures like scuba diving,beach games,swimming,snorkelling and deep sea fishing.The resort has 60 bedded beach cottages with a multi cuisine restaurant serving myriad delicacies.A well stocked bar is also available.AGATTI is the gate way to BANGARAM and is linked to Cochin for onward flights to metros

Agatti Island

In AGATTI coral growths and multicoloured coral fishes abount in its lagoons. Fishingis the most important industry of AGATTI which is perhaps the only island besides Minicoy getting surplus fish. Next to Fishing, Coir and Copra are the main industries.AGATTI is the AirPort stopover from Cochin and Goa on the way to Bangaram which can be seen on the northern horizon.Agatti Offers fully Furnished resorts managed by a private entrepreneur.The main attraction at the resorts is the water sport facilities.A medical centre with qualified Doctors functions at AGATTI

Amini Island

It is 3 kms long and 1.5 kms wide with oblong shape.Corals and sand stone is used for building purpose.Tallented craftsmen living here are famous for making walking sticks with tortoise shells and coconut shells.Its also famous for stone engrevers and has a rich tradition of fols songs.The island got its name for the Arabic word Amin meaning faithful.

Kadmath Island

Kadmath is 8 Kms long and 550 metres wide at the broadest point. In addition to the beautiful shallow lagoon on the west that forms an ideal spot for water sports, there is a narrow lagoon on the east. The best attractions are the long sandy beaches and small sand banks on the southern tip for sun baths.