The leader of the opposition VD Satheesan on the centenary of the celebration of the Basilica of the Virgin Mary Dolors (Puthenpally) on Sunday in Thrissur with Thrissur Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath, Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil and Mayor of MK Varghes on his side. | Photo Credit: Kk Najeeb
On Sunday he described the historical Puthenpally as “shelter offering comfort”, the main archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church Mar Raphael, who on Sunday began the centenary of the Basilica of the Virgin Mary (popularly known as Puthenpally).
“Puthenpally was a place where people from every faith and background found peace,” said Mar Thattil. “In this city, if there is a place not only listening to prayers, but also expanding a helping hand to human suffering, it is rot. Those who cannot afford medications prescribed doctors will find care and compassion – without obstacles caste or religion.”
He stressed that the church’s permanent legacy of the charity organization added: “Puthenpally’s journey must continue – to offer refuge to the homeless, clothes to the poor and take care of the sick.”
The leader of the opposition VD Satheesan said at his address: “The church becomes sacred not through its walls, but despite the boiling prayers of its believers. For centuries, this majestic basilica witnessed joy and castles.”
An important center of faith
Minister of income K. Rajan described the basilica “One of the most important beliefs recorded in the history of Kerala”.
Basilica of the sanctuary of the Virgin Mary began humbly 10th October 1925 by a simple altar established at the school under Presbyteria, the Thrissur Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath recalled. The foundation stone was laid on December 21, 1929 and the large structure was consecrated on November 24, 1940. In 1992, Pope John Paul II. Promoted to the status of the basilica.
The architectural miracle, the basilica extends 25,000 square feet and houses of 11 decorated altars decorated with murals, icons and biblical statues. Thanks to the iconic biblical tower, rising to 260 feet, it makes it the highest church tower in Asia – a real monument of faith and craftsmanship.
Yet its size lies outside its Gothic beauty – in its tireless service to humanity. Basilica, founded in 2000, supported thousands of poor patients by providing drugs and meals, especially in Jubilee Mission Hospital and Government Medical College.
New initiative
The Church described its centenary and launched new charity initiatives, including building a house for a homeless family and financial support for the widow for the marriage of their daughters.
Curiakose Cleemis, the Metropolitan Syrian Orthodox Church of Jacobite in Thrissur Diocese, Mayor of Thrissur Corporation MK Varghese and other dignitaries also spoke, celebrating the Basilic century of a long mission of Sysant and services.
Published – October 5, 2025 20:30 is
