Prominent Figures of the Kerala Church –31

Prominent Figures of the Kerala Church –31
Thomas Paikada

Thomas Paikada, a distinguished scholar in Sanskrit, was born on October 15, 1922, to Chandi and Rose Paikat in the Paikat family of Kizh Thadiyoor. After receiving his basic education, he began studying Sanskrit at the age of thirteen under the guidance of C.S. Parameswaran Thampi at the Poonjar Palace. He further pursued Sanskrit studies at the Advaita Ashram in Aluva. With over 65 years of experience in Sanskrit, Thomas Paikat has made remarkable contributions to the field.

He has gained exceptional knowledge in the scientific branches of Sanskrit, such as Jyotisha (astronomy), Ayurveda, and Vastu Shilpa (architecture). Due to his profound expertise, he was honored with the title of “Shastraratna” by the Vishwasanskrit Pratishtana.

In the field of medicine, Thomas Paikada made significant achievements. He served for a long time as the head of the Kottayam branch of the Traditional Medical Organization. His efforts led to the recovery of many cancer patients and provided solace to those nearing the end of their lives. His services in the medical field have been recognized with several honors, including a certificate and shawl from the Pankajakasturi Ayurveda College. He has also been honored by various organizations with shawls and lights.

Thomas Paikada has received accolades in poetry competitions organized by the Catholic Congress on three consecutive occasions. These competitions were named after the great poet Kattakkayam Cherian Mappila. Two of his works were published, including “The Entry of Christ into Jerusalem.” The poem “The Entry of Christ into Jerusalem” was praised by the great poet Vallathol, who remarked:

“Mr. Thommen Paikada’s work, a short epic based on the sacred subject of Jesus Christ’s entry into Jerusalem, will captivate the hearts of connoisseurs.”

Thomas Paikada, who won second place in the poetry competition organized by the All Kerala Catholic Congress in 1949, is a young poet deserving of the accolade. Readers of “The Entry of Christ into Jerusalem” will undoubtedly appreciate his work with heartfelt admiration.