The 10th Kerala History Congress is stirring excitement by showcasing the rich history of Thiruvananthapuram in brilliant detail. The opening paper stressed the magic of local sources, blending stories told by mouth and written records as key to unlocking the city’s urban past. Canals and ponds that once quenched the city’s thirst were also spotlighted for their crucial role in water supply, making us appreciate nature’s gifts long before modern pipes existed. Colonial-era clubs weren’t just places for tea and gossip; papers revealed they mirrored the game of power between British officials and local elite – a new way to peek into history’s social drama! Architecture lovers got their fill as Kizhakkekotta and Kowdiar Palace stood tall as shining examples of Travancore’s royal design, speaking of regal glory and grace. Women strode onto the scene with bold public speeches that fueled socio-political change in the early 1900s. The standout paper “Through the Eyes of the Audience” caught everyone’s attention, showing how women’s voices stirred hearts and minds. The ancient market quarters, or ‘pettas’, buzzed as major business hubs, while the city’s growth roads shaped Thiruvananthapuram’s very map. Fishing communities near the coast saw big changes thanks to the booming Vizhinjam port. Meanwhile, spiritual spots like the Varkala cliff and Sivagiri Mutt added a sacred glow, reminding us of the city’s deep religious roots. All these fascinating discussions were guided by the attentive chair, Vellanad Ramachandran, making history not just a study but a celebration of a city that lives and breathes its past.