Thekkepuram

The traditionally and culturally rich village of Thekkepuram near Kozhikode town is unique in its ability to retain its identity despite the wave of modernization sweeping all around. 

Nature has bestowed the village of Thekkepuram with many water bodies that contribute to its beauty and charm. The village is bordered by the Arabian Sea to the west, River Kallayi to the south, the city of Kozhikode to the east and the fishing village of Vellayil to the north. 

Places of Interest
Ancient buildings such as the tharavads, or ancestral homes, mosques and other edifices in Thekkepuram stand testimony to the excellence of medieval Kerala architecture. A large Chira, or pond, can be seen here with stone-paved steps leading to the water. The region adjacent to the Chira is known as Kuttichira. There are old laterite benches around the tank where the Zamorin made his state proclamations. The nearby Mishkal mosque, Jama pally and Muchundipally are some of the ancient mosques in the area known for their architectural and historical significance. 

The Kallayi River that lies to the south of the village adds to its scenic charm. There is also a railway bridge across the river that was constructed long back by the British. The two major bazaars, or market places in the city, Big Bazaar and Copra Bazaar, were the ancient trading centres in Kozhikode. Another attraction is the Thekkepuram beach where one can enjoy the sunset and the cool breeze. The port lighthouse is also accessible from the beach.

Social Life and Economic Activities 

Most of the inhabitants in Thekkepuram belong to the Muslim community. Prominent among them is the Kozhikode Koyas. Mainly traders of timber, copra and rice, they have made considerable contributions to boost the commercial activities of the district. 

They traded with the Arabs and extended their roots to the Middle East during ancient times. A large section of the community is now in the Middle East and other foreign countries, still involved in various businesses. Thekkepuram Muslims were so adept at trade that they once monopolized the Big Bazaar, one of the major markets of Kozhikode. Thekkepuram is also known for its communal harmony. 

Tharavads and the Matriarchal System
Some of the tharavads of Thekkepuram are centuries old and contain around 40 bedrooms in order to accommodate all members of the extended family who preferred to stay under one roof. The values and customs of the joint family system are still intact in the tharavads of Thekkepuram. 

The families here follow the matriarchal system where the lineage is traced through the daughters. 

The tharavads here are fine examples of Kerala architecture with their slanting, tiled roofs, inner courtyards, wooden folding windows, benches and wells.