Rama Varma Kunhjipilla Thampuran (1751–1805), or Rama Varma IX, popularly known as Sakthan Thampuran (Sakthan meaning powerful), was the ruler of Cochin. He was the King of Cochin and his palace was in Thrissur. Thrissur is the cultural capital of Kerala and Sakthan Thampuran is the very architect of Thrissur city. Thrissur Pooram was introduced by him. Sakthan Thampuran was a very powerful Maharaja as the very name indicate. He died in September 1805 AD, (Kanni 11, 980 (ME)) at Thrissur.
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Born on Karkidakom 10, 926 (ME) (1751 AD) at Vellarapally Palace to Ambika Thampuran of the Cochin Royal Family and her consort Chennose Namboodiripad. His mother died when he was only three years old. The prince was brought up by his maternal aunt, famously known as Chittamma (meaning mother's younger sister) Thampuran. His early education took place under the tutelage of scholars such as Kallenkara Pisharody.
Shakthan Thampuran Palace in Thrissur is one of the historic, cultural, architectural important palace of the erstwhile Mahraja of Cochin which has been converted into a heritage museum. This palace is a blend of traditional Kerala and Dutch architectural style. It was reconstructed in [erala-Dutch style in 1795. Formerly this palace was known as Vadakkechira Kovilakam. The palace is spread over six acres. This palace is named after King Rama Varma Shakthan Thampuran, who is the founder of Thrissur city. According to Hindu tradition, the Cochin Royal family cremeates their dead. However. there are three tombs including the tomb purported to be that of Shakthan Thampuran. The last member of the Cochin Royal Family to reside at the palace was Rama Varma Bharathan Thampuran. He lived there from 1950 to 1990 when the Palace was handed over to the Government of Kerala.
| Regnal titles | ||
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| Preceded by Rama Varma VIII |
Maharaja of Cochin 1790–1805 |
Succeeded by Rama Varma X |