Thiruvilwamala, a picturesque village in Thrissur district, is a land steeped in legends, unique rituals, and vibrant festivals. It is home to the ancient and renowned Sri Vilwadrinatha Temple, one of the most significant Sri Rama temples in India. Perched 100 feet above sea level on the serene banks of the Nila River (Bharathapuzha), this temple is a spiritual and cultural landmark.

Adding to the uniqueness of Thiruvilwamala is its indigenous Vilwadri cows, a breed deeply intertwined with the heritage of the Sri Vilwadrinatha Temple. Often referred to as “God’s own cows,” these resilient animals roam freely across the rocky terrains, dense forests, and temple precincts of Vilwadri hill. Spanning 115 acres along the Palakkad-Thrissur border, this land has nurtured the Vilwadri cows for centuries, symbolizing survival and earning pride and prestige for the region.

Among Kerala’s indigenous cow breeds, Vilwadri cows stand out due to their exceptional adaptation to the diverse ecosystems of Thiruvilwamala. These cows embody the wild beauty of the forests, the strength of the Vilwadri hills, and the grace of the Nila River. While they share similarities with breeds such as Vechur, Cheruvalli, Kasaragodan dwarf, Vadakara dwarf, Wayanadan dwarf, Ananganmala, and Kuttampuzha cows in appearance and dairy quality, the Vilwadri cows’ distinct characteristics set them apart. Their remarkable stamina, robust immunity, longevity exceeding 40 years, and exceptional reproductive efficiency enable them to thrive in even the harshest environments and climates.

The conservation of these majestic cows is spearheaded by the Goshala under the Vilwadri Cow Conservation Trust and the Ivormadom Korappath Charitable Trust. Located near the famous Ivormadom crematorium, this Goshala shelters approximately 80 purebred Vilwadri cows, preserving them in their traditional habitat. The visionary behind this effort is Ramesh Korappath, chairman of the trust, who founded the Goshala out of a deep sense of responsibility to safeguard the cultural heritage of his homeland. His unwavering dedication earned him the prestigious Breed Saviour Award in 2016, a national recognition for his efforts in conserving this invaluable breed.

Dr. G. Radhika, a scientist from Mannuthi College of Veterinary and Animal Science, has emphasized the need for government intervention and strategic planning to ensure the survival of Vilwadri cows. Her genetic diversity studies using microsatellite technology underscore the importance of preserving this unique breed.

The milk and ghee of Vilwadri cows play a vital role in the daily rituals and special ceremonies at the Sri Vilwadrinatha Temple. They are also used in funeral rites and rituals conducted at the Ivormadom crematorium. Many visitors come to the Goshala after learning about the purity of the milk and the historical significance of the breed. In this way, Vilwadri cows have become an integral part of life in Thiruvilwamala, connecting the living with the spiritual and honoring the departed with dignity.