Prominent Figures of the Kerala Church-68 Fr. James Vettikattu

Prominent Figures of the Kerala Church-68
Fr. James Vettikattu
Fr. James, a prominent figure in the movement against the government’s resettlement of about 2.5 million immigrant farmers in the eastern hilly areas of Kerala and the private forest regions of Malabar, was born on March 27, 1927, into the historic and renowned Vettikattu family in Payippad, near Changanassery. He was the son of Puthenpurakkal Pothansar and Rosamma. He received his primary education at Payippad Government School and completed his high school education at S.B. Changanassery. He later enrolled in S.B. College, where he passed the Intermediate examination with distinction, excelling in both studies and cultural activities, winning numerous awards in arts and literature competitions, and gaining a reputation as an eloquent speaker.
From a young age, he aspired to become a priest. He began his theological studies at the Parell Petit Seminary and later completed his studies in Philosophy and Theology at Aluva Pontifical Seminary. He was ordained a priest on December 8, 1953, by the esteemed Bishop Kardinall Tisserant. He served as an assistant vicar in the parishes of Edathwa and Upputhara before his notable contributions in the resettlement areas of Merikulat.
Fr. James’s service in the development of the eastern high ranges was remarkable. He played a crucial role in establishing various churches, schools, post offices, and banks in the region, which the locals will always remember him for. He served for a long time on the clergy senate of the Changanassery Archdiocese, the Pastoral Council, the School Education Committee, and the Social Service Society Board of Directors. He also participated in the National Consultation Committee of Priests in Pune and served on several commissions appointed by the Archdiocese, including a long tenure as a Public Relations Officer. His courage and leadership were commendable qualities that stood out.
In the agricultural and economic sectors, Fr. James provided invaluable service during the time of the United Front government following the 1957 communist rule. He faced severe anti-agricultural policies, particularly the oppressive system of land rights imposed by the government in the private forest areas of Malabar. This period witnessed significant resettlement in Kerala’s high ranges, shocking even global observers. The historical Kottiyoor March and the formation of the Malanadu Farmers’ Union led to a new phase in Kerala’s politics. Fr. James was at the forefront of these movements, especially at the Ayyappan Temple, leading large protests and demonstrations, showcasing his organizational skills. He also served as a member of the government-appointed committee addressing issues faced by small farmers.
An excellent speaker, organizer, and cultural activist, he has written numerous articles in newspapers and magazines to raise awareness among the people. Fr. James continues to serve as a chief advisor to the Vettikattu family gathering and as a trustee of the Console India National Trust.
In an article related to the 70th anniversary celebrations, Kerala’s Transport Minister K. Narayanakurup noted that the people of Kerala saw in Fr. James not just a priest confined to spiritual matters, but a leader and spokesperson for the hill farmers. He remarked that there are no areas in Idukki district that Fr. James hasn’t ventured into to understand the struggles of the marginalized. His insights were later brought to the attention of authorities, demonstrating his exceptional intellect and personal strength.
During the anniversary celebrations, the president of the Kanjirappally diocese, Mar Mathew Arackal, referred to Fr. James as the “sculptor of the high ranges.”