Veezhumala, meaning “Fallen Hill,” is a prominent hill range near Alathur in Palakkad District. Stretching over six kilometres from east to west and rising more than 400 metres above the surrounding landscape, the hill was once renowned for its rich diversity of medicinal plants. For generations, Ayurvedic medicine manufacturers and herbal traders from nearby regions, particularly around Thrissur, depended on Veezhumala as a valuable source of medicinal herbs. Today, however, illegal encroachment and habitat degradation have drastically reduced these natural resources.
Local folklore links the hill to the epic Ramayana. According to the legend, the monkey-god Hanuman was sent by Jambavan to fetch four life-saving medicinal plants to revive warriors struck down by the serpent weapon of Indrajit. Unable to identify the plants, Hanuman carried the entire mountain containing them. As he flew toward Lanka, a fragment of the mountain is said to have fallen here, giving rise to Veezhumala.
Another fascinating legend surrounds a rock formation on the hill’s western slope that resembles an elephant emerging from a cave. Local tradition tells of a hidden treasure within the cave, which villagers respectfully used only when necessary. When a king attempted to seize the entire treasure using an elephant, the hill cursed them both, turning the king and elephant into stone.
The photograph capturing this remarkable formation, taken on film 36 years ago, preserves not only a unique geological feature but also the rich folklore and cultural heritage associated with Veezhumala
– Vincent Vanur
