Mahatma Ayyankali Hall

Mahatma Ayyankali Hall stands at Palayam in central Thiruvananthapuram and is widely remembered by its former name, Victoria Jubilee Town Hall or VJT Hall. The building opened in 1896 and was created to commemorate Queen Victoria’s jubilee. Its pointed arches and colonial-era design made it a distinctive city landmark, but its importance goes beyond architecture: the hall was used as an early legislative meeting place in Travancore and later hosted major public, cultural and political events.

In 2019 it was renamed in honour of social reformer Mahatma Ayyankali, who had strong historical associations with public mobilisation and social justice in Keralam. The hall remains an active civic venue, so the experience depends heavily on current programmes such as exhibitions, fairs, meetings, concerts or cultural events. Travellers can appreciate the exterior as part of a Palayam heritage walk, while interior access depends on bookings and events.

Check the current programme before planning a visit inside.