A well in Kerala hamlet stands as a symbol of caste resistance

KUTTIVATTOM, a small hamlet in Panmana village, serves as a shining example of caste resistance. Mahatma Ayyankali, the great social reformer, initiated the work to dig a public well in Kuttivattom. The initiative marked a significant step forward at a time when caste discrimination was deeply rooted in Kerala society

- RAHUL R

The primary purpose of the well was to provide drinking water to paddy farmers, most of whom belonged to the Harijan community, considered untouchables and prohibited from using public wells used by upper castes. The well was established on an 8-cent plot of land in 1931 by Mahatma Ayyankali.

However, the current state of the well tells a tale of neglect.

Its ownership and maintenance now fall under the Sadhu Jana Paripalana Sangham Trust.

"Many paddy farmers in the vicinity, most of whom were from the Harijan community, used to work in the nearby paddy fields.