India lives in its villages said Gandhiji. Every village has an eco system and something characteristic. Samathur rests in the midst of rivers, mountains and a great heritage resulting in unique characteristics. Located on the Valparai road from Pollachi, the village today is a largely populated one. It mainly thrives on agriculture as expected but also has a textile business ecosystem. There are modern textile mills and traditional hereditary hand-loom weavers. There are about nine small and ancient temples in and around the village. The Shivan temple is ancient with inscriptions dating over 700 years.
It was a significant place over the many centuries as it was the seat of one of the 72 Palayakarar/Poligar or Regional Ruler. The Vanavarayar’s have ruled from Samathur for generations for almost 700 years. Later it became a Zamindari under the British with about 18 villages under its care. At the heart of the village is the splendid Palace with a nandavanam along side. Even today the Vanavarayar’s of Samathur are the presiding family and they continue to be involved in the social, religious and traditional routine and during special occasions.
The farming is largely with coconut but seasonal crops are also grown. The betel leaf is also grown and the farming of this is a sight to see. Paddy was a prevalent crop in the past. One of the unique features of this farming is the presence of two lakes in the village. The lake is spread over 100 acres and is a life spring for many species. The lake is for known for its bird life and almost 45 kinds of Birds have been identified here. The lake also has fish and is covered with lotus and lilies at different points. It is wonderful to see Handloom weavers make wonderful Sari’s in their intricate looms. Different communities living in the village makes it multicultural.
To experience Zamin Samathur at its best, one can stay in Shenbaga Vilaasam – The royal ancestry of the Vanavarayar family that dates back over 2000 years, where the wonderful smells of rural India mingle with rich flavours of royal heritage. Here’s where you can see India in the quintessence of her village charm, along her giant strides in the field of technology and science. All through the magical windows of Shenbaga Vilaasam.
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