Third Prof. P. S. Zachariah Endowment Lecture

The Department of History at Mar Thoma College, Tiruvalla, successfully organized the Third Prof. P. S. Zachariah Endowment Lecture on March 3, 2025, at the College Seminar Hall. The event, which brought together scholars, students, and history enthusiasts, served as an important platform for academic discourse and historical inquiry.

The program commenced at 10:00 AM with an inaugural address delivered by Rev. Abey T. Mammen, Sabha Secretary of the Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church. In his address, he emphasized the importance of preserving and revisiting historical narratives to gain a deeper understanding of cultural and societal evolution.

The highlight of the event was the keynote lecture by Dr. M. G. Sasibhooshan, a renowned historian, art historian, and Indologist. His lecture, titled “Rereading the Annals and Antiquities of Tiruvalla”, provided fresh insights into the historical and cultural significance of the region. Drawing upon his extensive research on South Indian temple architecture, mural traditions, numismatics, and Kerala’s religious heritage, Dr. Sasibhooshan captivated the audience with his scholarly interpretations and detailed analysis.

The lecture was followed by an engaging interactive session, where participants had the opportunity to discuss and deliberate on various aspects of Tiruvalla’s historical legacy. Scholars and students actively participated in the discussion, further enriching the academic value of the event.

The endowment lecture series was instituted in 2023 by Prof. P. S. Zachariah, former Head of the Department of History at Mar Thoma College, to promote historical scholarship and intellectual engagement. Over the years, it has become a significant academic forum, featuring eminent historians such as Prof. Sanal Mohan (2023) and Dr. Dinesan Vadakiniyil (2024).

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Mathew Sam, the Programme Convenor, who expressed gratitude to the distinguished speaker, guests, faculty members, and students for their active participation. The success of the lecture was a testament to the efforts of the Programme Committee, which included Dr. Mathew Varkey T. K. (Principal), Dr. K. M. Vishnu Namboodiri (Head, Department of History), Dr. Agney G. K. (Programme Coordinator), and Ms. Nafila Nasir (Faculty, Department of History).

The Third Prof. P. S. Zachariah Endowment Lecture once again reinforced the importance of historical studies and provided a meaningful academic experience for all attendees.