Our Heritage
Exploring the rich traditions and history of the Knanaya Catholic community and the Kannothara family.
The Knanaya Community
The Knanaya community is a unique group within the Saint Thomas Christians of Kerala, India. Our history begins with the migration of 72 families from the Middle East, led by a merchant named Knai Thoma (Thomas of Cana), who arrived on the Malabar Coast in 345 AD.
These families brought with them their own customs, traditions, and religious practices which they have preserved through the centuries through endogamous marriage practices (marrying within the community). This has allowed the Knanaya people to maintain their distinct identity and heritage.
The Knanaya community is divided into two ecclesial communities – the Syro-Malabar Knanaya Catholic and the Jacobite Knanaya – but both share the same cultural traditions and heritage.
Faith & Traditions
The Catholic faith is at the center of Knanaya identity. Our religious traditions blend Eastern and Western Catholic practices with unique cultural elements specific to our community.
Important religious ceremonies include traditional marriage customs, birth celebrations, and funeral rites that have been preserved for generations. During these ceremonies, we perform special songs called Panan Pattu, which tell the story of our migration and history.
The Kannothara family has been deeply committed to preserving these religious traditions while actively participating in the broader Catholic Church. Our grandfather was known for his devotion and involvement in church activities in Kottayam.
Cultural Heritage
Beyond religious practices, our heritage includes distinctive cultural elements such as traditional clothing, cuisine, art forms, and social customs that reflect both our Middle Eastern origins and our centuries of life in Kerala.
Traditional Knanaya foods include dishes prepared for special occasions like Pathirithalem Kozhi (special rice pancakes with chicken curry) served at weddings. Our style of traditional dress typically includes the mundu for men (as seen in photos of our grandfather) and the chatta and mundu or saree for women.
Folk arts like Margamkali (a traditional group dance) and Panan Pattu (folk songs) preserve the story of our migration and history through artistic expression. These performances are still part of important family and community celebrations.
Our Family Values
The Kannothara family continues to uphold the core values passed down through generations:
Faith
Maintaining our Catholic identity while respecting our unique Knanaya traditions
Family
Honoring family bonds and preserving our heritage for future generations
Service
Continuing our grandfather's legacy of community service and helping others