This family history is an endeavour to trace the origins of the Neeliyara family.
The earliest known records date back to the Edakali Kutumbam, one of the eight Brahmin families baptized by St. Thomas. The Vayalakombe family originated from the Edakali Brahmins, who moved from Kodungallur to Kottakkavu in Paravur (Padmanaparavur). From there, the family branched out, eventually forming the Chilambikunnel lineage. The Mangalathil family was a branch of Chilambikunnel, and Chacko, the son of Mangalathil Kocheria, went on to establish the Neeliyara family. Chacko resided at Neeliyara Purayidam in Parappally near Palai. He had two sons from two marriages: Cherian and Ouseph, who are the forefathers of the various branches of the Neeliyara family.
Today, the Neeliyara family is spread far and wide across the globe,
with significant concentrations in Palai, Thodupuzha, Malabar, and Mangalore. To identify and connect the different branches and members of the Neeliyara family, a directory was published in 2017. Prior to this, a detailed history was compiled, tracing the family's origins. Each branch of the Neeliyara family can be traced back to the second and third generations of the founding forefathers.
To unite the family, the first Kudumbayogam (family gathering) was organized in 2017.
Representatives from various branches gathered at St. Thomas Cathedral Church for a Holy Eucharist, followed by an interactive session. During this event, future initiatives were discussed, including the creation of a website and a WhatsApp group to connect the administrators of different Neeliyara family groups.