The Basilica of Our Lady of Ransom, Vallarpadam-Ernakulam is one of the most famous churches in India not just because of the religious belief of the Christians but also for its history, even the Central Government of India promulgated Vallarpadam as the major pilgrim centre of India. People of different religions visit this place to have the blessings of Mother Mary popularly known as “Vallarpadathamma”.
People believe that Vallarpadathamma showers her miraculous intersession special blessings on them to save their lives from many adverse situations. Many times, people say that this church is 500 yrs old that’s why it is so valuable. Portuguese missionaries who came to Cochin with Vasco-da-Gama established this church in 1524. Its importance is that it is the only church in Asia which is dedicated to Holy Spirit.
This church was promulgated as a special church by Pope Leo XIII in 1888. The land was donated by the Paliath Raman Valiachan who was also a follower of Our Lady of Ransom. There are 2 pyramid structures; you can go there and see the whole Kochin city.
It’s just awe-inspiring. Vallarpadam is situated next to Bolgatty Island in the west and linked to Ernakulam mainland. There is a popular story of a miracle, a young Nair Lady named Meenakshiyamma was a member of a noble family, called Palliyilveedu. She was going with her son to Mattancherry in a boat. There arose a storm and Meenakshiyamma & her son were about to drown in the river. She promised Vallarpadathamma that if they were rescued by her they would be her follower until their death. On the third day, a parish priest had a dream of Vallarpadathamma, who told him about Meenakshiyamma & her son and rescued them. From that day onwards, people, especially who travel by boats and ships, use to visit Vallarpadam and pray for their safe journey.
