What is "poonthran"

Poonthran is a prominent Muslim family from the former Travancore - a princely state now called Kerala state, India. Its members have played a significant role in the history of Travancore since 19th century. The family had subscribed to the cultural heritage of the Travancore (Kerala) region and modern India at large, by contributing a long lineage of illustrious sons and daughters. Their genealogy starts with a prominent landlord Ahamed Kunju aka Thoppil Thampi, who came from the south-western part of Travancore and settled in Varkala.

The family's ascent to prominence began in the late 19th century, with the birth of Vakkom Moulavi, who was later acknowledged as the "father" of the Muslim socio-religious reform movements in Kerala. The Poonthran household was one of the few Muslim families in Travancore, who were highly regarded not only for their wealth, but also for their wisdom, prestige, and community service. They have contributed renaissance leaders, social reformers, freedom fighters, politicians, judges, writers, scholars, journalists and philosophers to the history of Travancore, Kerala and modern India.