Ammaveedu

Ammaveedus were the residences of the consorts of the Maharajahs of Travancore in Trivandrum. The descendants of the Maharajahs were considered as members of these Ammaveedus, with a status next only to royalty.

Origin

The consorts of the Travancore kings were known generally as "Ammachis" and held the title of Panapillai Amma which meant royal consort. As per the Marumakkathayam law of inheritance and succession in the Royal family of Travancore the Maharajahs were succeeded by their nephews from their sisters, the Maharanis. The Panapillai Amma and the children born to the Maharajah were given the title of Thampi, second to royalty and all other privileges as befitting their status, vast areas of lands and other valuable property and "a liberal provision is made from the State funds for their maintenance in comfort and dignity" [Nagam Aiya Travancore Manual Vol II page 335] .

Etymology

The Maharajahs spouse was known as the Panapillai Amma or Ammachi and her "veedu" or residence was known as an Ammaveedu. The names of the Ammaveedus corresponded to the place from where the consort hailed. Eg: The Arumana Ammaveedu had its origin when a lady from Arumana village in Vilavancode, Kanyakumari was espoused by a former Maharajah of Travancore. Other Ammaveedus of prominence were Vadasseri Ammaveedu, Nagercoil Ammaveedu, Thanjavur Ammaveedu, Thiruvattar Ammaveedu, Puthumana Ammaveedu (of Ravi Varman Thampi) etc, all named after the villages from where the original Ammachis came. [Velu Pillai Travancore Manual Volume II page 709]

ee Also

* Nair
* Thampi
* Panapillai Amma
* Travancore
* Marumakkathayam

References