A HISTORY OF COCHIN AND ITS ROYAL FAMILY, FROM THE PERUMAL ERA TO THE EMERGENCE OF COCHIN AS A PRINCELY STATE UNDER BRITISH RULE. In the aftermath of the Perumal rule and its fragmentation emerged swaroopams, and among them was the Perumpadappu Swarupam, the royal house that later ruled Cochin. Like other kingdoms of the period, Cochin had its own alliances and rivalries, most famously, its long-standing conflict with the Zamorin. The status quo changed with the arrival of European powers; first the Portuguese, then the Dutch and finally the English. Their military strength allowed them to form local alliances and interfere in regional conflicts, and their presence materially affected the politics of the land.

The situation was further complicated by Travancore emerging as a formidable force under Martanda Varma, and Mysore directing its expansionist ambitions beyond the Deccan under Hyder Ali and later Tipu Sultan. Finally, under Shakthan Thampuran, Cochin became a princely state under British suzerainty as the East India Company consolidated its power in India. Drawing on historical records, available sources and oral tradition that has been passed down within the family, The Making of Cochin explores how the Rajas responded to the changing political realities of the time and the various powers in the region to preserve their kingdom. It recounts the circumstances and decisions that shaped the land’s fortunes and influenced the wider region, and helps explain the remarkable communal diversity that characterises Kochi, especially Mattancherry, to this day.

About the Authors

Dr Kocha Rama Varma is a member of the Cochin royal family. He practised medicine in the United States of America for thirty-five years and is a diplomate of the American Board of Urology. In retirement, he pursued his passion for travel and developed a keen interest in the history of his birthplace, Cochin, Kerala. He is the founder of the Cochin Royal Family Historical and Heritage Society, which works to preserve the heritage properties in Kottakkakam, Tripunithura, Kerala.

Usha Chettur Varma immigrated to the United States of America at a young age, where she raised two children while adapting to a new culture. She later pursued a career as a certified public accountant. Following her retirement, she travelled extensively and became closely involved in her husband’s research on the history of Cochin, eventually gaining expertise in the subject herself. She and Dr Varma cherish the time they spend with their children and three grandchildren, balancing their lives between the USA and Cochin.

Rajith B. Nair is a history enthusiast and the founder of the heritage travel firm The Traveling Gecko (TTG). Since 2014, one of TTG’s flagship tours has explored the history of the Cochin royal family. Originally from Mumbai, Rajith now divides his time between Kochi and Goa.