Ponkunnam: The Rajendra Maidan at Ponkunnam, which carry memories of the Indian independence movement, is set to undergo a modernisation drive costing Rs 25 lakh. The Chirakkadavu grama panchayat is set to finalise a tender for the work.
The stage at the maidan and the area used for mini-lorry parking are to be covered with roofs. A never-drying well at the public space will be modernised and preserved. A beautiful entrance that revives memories of the freedom struggle will be set up for the ground.
History behind name
The public ground was named after 13-year-old Rajendran who was shot at in July 1947 at the Pettah maidan in Thiruvananthapuram. He had succumbed to his injuries later. The ground had been the venue for all gatherings for India's freedom struggle.
Leaders of the Independence movement, who used to gather at the grounds, decided to name it after the teen. A meeting led by A K Pachu Pillai and presided over by P. Chandrasekharan Nair decided to name the grounds in front of the well as Rajendra Maidan.
Colonial well
The well here was built by the colonial rulers to celebrate the crowning of George V in Britain. Built in 1912, it still provides plenty of water for the town. The commemorative plaque is still there near the well.
