Water Museum and Biopark in Kozhikode

From a majority of our body, to the surroundings that sustain our existence, to the very plants and oceans that make for some of the finest visuals mankind has ever seen, water plays an integral role. At Kunnamangalam in Kozhikode, the Water Heritage Museum and Biopark is a move at enshrining and respecting this great natural resource that we have been blessed with. It is an initiative by the Centre for Water Resources Development and Management (CWRDM), with displays in the form of pictures, statutes and still life. The staff of the CWRDM has brought their unique concepts to life by enlisting the help of painters, sculptors and other artistes, who made use of clay, plastic, hay, plaster of Paris, wax and also waste material.

One is greeted at the entrance by a Padipura, a unique multipurpose gateway seen in many older aristocratic households. One is greeted by a display of a Kerala woman, drawing water from a well, located close to the kitchen. The water wells are located in the north-eastern corner of the house, as it is believed to enhance wealth, divine grace and also happiness in the household. The religious aspect of water is signified here as well. The Canoli Canal that contributed to the commercial advancement of Kerala and Idukki Hydroelectric Project is highlighted here, along with other important benchmarks in Kerala’s relation with water. These include the lifestyle and activities of the waterlogged region of Kuttanad to the backwaters of Vembanad and the Kole Wetlands.

One sees the mention of various traditional agrarian practices of Kerala, with special mention to Pokkali farming, making of coir, lime shell harvesting, inter cropping, mixed farming and harvesting seasons of Kerala. Finally, one is reminded of the importance of River Nila, popularly known as Bharathapuzha, to all Keralites. Literary works inspired by the same find a prominent place here. These exhibits make for an intriguing tour, a look at one of the fundamental building blocks of life.