Page 58 - Microsoft Word - My story of Pathyil Kalluvelil as told by Joseph Pathyil

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him as a supporter. He was the trustee of both the churches several times, the first time
when he was a mere nineteen year old young man. He was the one responsible for the
novel burial system established in Palathuruthu. The present Visitation Convent in
Palathurthu was built with his support and financial help. They had previously lived in a
house that had belonged to Chummarukutty. He was also involved in the local and State
elections, backing people on principle, rather than opportunity. He helped ogranize
demonstrations and rallies on behalf of the candidates whom he supported.

While rice and coconuts were the mainstay of the Chamakala wealth, Chummarukutty
successfully planted and nurtured rubber plantations. The income generated from this was
substantial. It was however understood that when rubber was sold, the proceeds from the
sale of the thread (ottupal) was to be entrusted to his wife, for her to do what she wanted..
Thus he set up a system to enable Mariamma to make purchases independently of him.
Mariamma knew how to get the best out of her husband. It was her responsibility to feed
and clothe the children, and to look after their well-being. It was also her duty to run a
busy household. In addition, unexpected visitors would arrive to meet and discuss various
matters with Chummarukutty. Mariamma never complained. In fact, visitors were
impressed with her refinement and civility as with the sincerity of her husband. .

Their first born was Lukachan (December 8, 1936), and from then on until September
1955 Babychan (Ne Joseph Sarto) was born, Mariamma presented her husband with six
sons and four daughters. The going was tough at times. But it was remarkable that
Mariamma always spoke well of her husband and children. She was not averse to
learning the latest fashions and encouraging her children to be well groomed. On
occasions she was helped by personages such as Prof. Mrs.Gracy Mathew, whose
husband was a doctor in Kaipuzha. She believed in healthy and substantial food for all.
The parties that she hosted for her husband’s friends were highly appreciated. Several
dignitaries - politicians, civic authorities, and church leaders were at her table frequently.
Bishop Tharayil, a close friend and confidant of Chummarukutty often invited himself
and his visitors to Chamakala. He would introduce the house as his own. And her parents
visited her frequently. Abraham delighted in having breakfast with his eldest daughter,
and Naithy spent hours conferring with her Mariamma.

Chummarukutty had a very short temper. But Mariamma knew her husband, and when
and how to get on his good side. Chummarukutty awoke early every morning. It was
then, over a cup of tea, that he and Mariamma communed. He told her of all that was
going on in the fields, on land, and in the village. She would tell him about the children,
her fears and hopes about them, the latest gossips about her relatives and friends. It was
an extraordinary relationship. He let her run the household very much as she wanted. The
children were afraid to face him, and went to their mother on all occasions. He was
satisfied with that arrangement. But he needed her constantly at home. If she went to visit
her folks and stayed overnight, he was restless. Sooner, rather than later, he would come
over to get her. But he knew everything that was going on in the Kalluvelil household, as
Mariamma was a primary source. In addition Abraham trusted the judgement of
Chummarukutty implicitly and confided in him. There was mutual respect and
admiration. The occasional irritations were as a result of the faux pas of others. But time

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