Lodge Vembanad No 319
Silver Jubilee Year

1998 - 2023

With gratitude, optimism, and brotherly love, we move forward into the future.

ABOUT US

Lodge Vembanad was granted its Warrant as 319th of lodges under the Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of India on 2nd September 1998 marking the further progress of Freemasonry in the Southern Region and, more particularly, in the city of Kochi. The Lodge was solemnly consecrated on 25th September 1998, a momentous occasion presided over by M.W. Bro Hari Pershad Mathur, OSM, MW the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of India. Looking back to that consecration, it doubtlessly unleashed an organic growth in Masonry Universal.

From the very inception, Lodge Vembanad has been a bastion of Masonic principles, fostering Brotherhood, Charity, and Truth, and a proponent of Masonic values. The foundation stone of the Lodge was carved by VW Bro Himmatlal Moolchand, the first Worshipful Master, and a dedicated team of youthful officers whose vision and commitment set the tone for its future growth. The foundation laid that evening has gone on to become the vibrant and flourishing superstructure that it is today. This is one lodge that, in bringing its petitioners together, cobbled a pan-Kerala mural coming as they did from every radial reach of Kochi.

The founding officers of Lodge Vembanad No 319 included:

V W Bro Himmatlal Moolchand – Worshipful Master (Lodge Sarvothama No. 176)
W Bro Navina B Khonna – IPM (Lodge Sarvothama No. 176)
W Bro Rajesh G Asher – Senior Warden (Lodge Sarvothama No. 176)
Bro Sunil George – Junior Warden (Lodge Sarvothama No. 176)
W Bro K. Balahariharan – Chaplain (Lodge Mangalore No. 156)
Bro Appu Kurian – Treasurer (Lodge Sarvothama No. 176)
W Bro Dr. M George Eraly – Secretary (Lodge Ernakulam No. 243)
W Bro Reji Markos – Director of Ceremonies (Lodge Kottayam No. 245)
Bro P C Cherian – Senior Deacon (Lodge Sarvothama No. 176)
Bro John K Paul – Junior Deacon (Lodge Palghat No. 159)
Bro Mohan Kavalakkat – Bearer of VSL (Lodge Palghat No. 159)
Bro Jose Thomas – Bearer of VSL (Lodge Palghat No. 159)
Bro Rajiv Kumaran – Bearer of VSL (Lodge Sarvothama No. 176)
Bro Salay Mohammed Mansoor – Bearer of VSL (Lodge Sarvothama No. 176)
Bro Jacob Mathew K K – Sword Bearer (Lodge Ernakulam No. 243)
Bro Zubin George – Assistant Secretary (Lodge Sarvothama No. 176)
Bro Joseph Markos – Assistant Director of Ceremonies (Lodge Kottayam No. 245)
Bro Francis Alappat – Almoner (Lodge Palghat No. 159)
Bro Satish Joseph – Organist (Lodge Sarvothama No. 176)
Bro Titten Thomas – Inner Guard (Lodge Kottayam No. 245)
Bro Benny Kurian – Steward (Lodge Sarvothama No. 176)
Bro Reji Mathew – Steward (Lodge Sarvothama No. 176)
Bro Peter Agnel Mayne – Steward (Lodge Sarvothama No. 176)
Bro Antony George – Steward (Lodge Alleppey No. 275)
Bro Subramaniam V – Tyler (Lodge Sarvothama No. 176)
Bro Jacob Neroth Chandy (Lodge Alleppey No. 275)
Bro Alex George Ancheril (Lodge Kottayam No. 245)
Bro Dr. Joseph George (Lodge Kottayam No. 245)
Bro John Chackola (Lodge Trichur No. 180)
Bro Dr. Sushil Mathai Eraly (Lodge Montfort No. 249)
Bro Dr. Sunil Mathai Eraly (Lodge Montfort No. 249)

MESSAGES FROM THE LEADERSHIP

RW Bro. T N Manoharan, OSM

RW the Regional Grand Master of Southern India

Beloved Brethren of Lodge Vembanad No.319,

It gives me immense pleasure to greet and congratulate all of you on the completion of 25 years of glorious functioning of your Lodge. It is amazing that Lodge Vembanad No. 319 has grown from strength to strength over two and half decades and endured its journey with excellence culminating into Silver Jubilee celebrations. I am delighted that you are commemorating the Silver Jubilee celebrations under the Chairmanship of RW Bro. CJ Mathew in a befitting manner on 18th October, 2024 in my presence.

Successful completion of 25 years in the annals of any Institution is a remarkable accomplishment, and I congratulate your W Master W Bro. Avira Tharakan and Secretary Bro. Thomas Tharakan ably assisted by other officers for celebrating the Silver Jubilee year by executing many charity projects and activities. I am happy to know that a E- Souvenir is intended to be published on this occasion and a committee with RW Bro. Sunil George as the Chairman and Editor is working to make it a meaningful and enlightening edition.

On this occasion it is felicitous to salute and hail successive worshipful Masters and officers of the Lodge, who carried the mantle during the past, for their commitment and dedicated service.

Lodge Vembanad No. 319 was not only led by distinguished masons in the past but had also produced good number of masonic leaders who served not only the Lodge but also the Regional Grand Lodge of India as well as The Grand Lodge of India in different capacities. Among the dedicated members of your Lodge, the names of W Master, W Bro. Avira Tharakan, Secretary, Bro. Thomas Tharakan, RW Bro. CJ Mathew, RW Bro. Appu Kurian, RW Bro. Sunil George, W Bro. Zubin George, W Bro. GG Poothicote, W Bro. Mangal KS, W Bro. Abraham Itty Ipe, W Bro. Ranjit Santakumar, W Bro. Dr K P Cherian, Bro. Suraj George Verghese, Bro. Isaac Thomas, Bro. Dr Joseph P Sunny, Bro. Anil George Joseph, Bro. Aditya Deo, Bro. Mohan Ipe and Bro. Koruth Varghese are to be specially appreciated for their service to the Lodge on a consistent basis.

May the brethren of your Lodge and their family members be bestowed always with good health and happiness. May the Great Architect of the Universe continue to guide and bless all of you to serve and sustain the glory of your Lodge in an exemplary manner.

With fraternal regards,
RW Bro. T N Manoharan

W Bro. Zubin George

Assistant Regional Grand Master,
P G I G , P A G M

Message

As a Founder Member of Lodge Vembanad No. 319, it is indeed a happy privilege to be part of its Silver Jubilee celebrations. Personally, it was an immense honour to be enlisted in the formation of a new Lodge in the Area. Witnessing the ceremony of its Consecration, performed in the most solemn and dignified manner by the stalwarts of Freemasonry, further impressed upon a very young Mason the incalculable eminence of our ancient institution.

It is noteworthy that, as was at its Consecration and now on its Silver Jubilee, the offices of Lodge Vembanad No. 319 are occupied by young, dynamic, and keen Masons ably guided by distinguished senior brethren. There is no doubt they will continue the good work and uphold the excellent principles of the institution.

I wish the Worshipful Master, Wardens, and Brethren of this Lodge many more Masonic achievements in the years to come. May the G A T O U. continue to shower His blessings on this Lodge, its members, and their families.

Fraternally yours,
W Bro. Zubin George

W Bro. Parayil Lalan Avira Tharakan

Worshipful Master

Dear Brethren and Friends,

It is with immense pride and gratitude that I pen this message on the occasion of the Silver Jubilee Celebration of Lodge Vembanad No 319, under the auspices of the Regional Grand Lodge of Southern India. This milestone marks 25 years of our shared journey in the noble pursuit of Freemasonry’s timeless values—Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth.

Although Lodge Vembanad No 319 completed its 25 years in September 2023, we are gathering today in October 2024 due to circumstances beyond our control. Yet, this does not diminish the joy or the spirit of our celebration.

If anything, it gives us a greater sense of appreciation for the resilience and dedication that has characterized our Lodge and its members over the years. Over the past quarter of a century, our Lodge has grown from humble beginnings into a beacon of light within our Masonic community. We have remained steadfast in our commitment to fostering fraternity, charity, and integrity. This moment is not only a time to reflect on the achievements of the past but also an opportunity to look forward to a future guided by the same principles that have brought us this far.

Our brethren have worked tirelessly to uphold the traditions of Freemasonry while also embracing new ideas and practices that have allowed us to stay relevant in an ever-changing world. It is this balance of tradition and innovation that makes Lodge Vembanad unique.

This Silver Jubilee is a testament to the dedication and perseverance of all those who have been a part of our Lodge over the years—our Past Masters, Officers, and Brethren. Their contributions have shaped the identity and spirit of our Lodge. I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Regional Grand Master and his team of officers for their unwavering support and guidance.

As we celebrate this significant milestone, let us rededicate ourselves to the Masonic principles we cherish. Let us continue to strive for the betterment of ourselves, our Lodge, and the broader community.

I offer my sincere thanks to all who have contributed to making this Silver Jubilee celebration a success. Your efforts and support have made this journey all the more meaningful, and I look forward to the continued progress of Lodge Vembanad No 319 in the years ahead.

Fraternally yours,
W Bro. Parayil Lalan Avira Tharakan

Brethren Who Have Held Active Offices in GLI and RGLSI

RW Bro. CJ Mathew

GLI Active Ranks:

2018: PRES.B.G.P.

2017: DY.G.M.

2016: G. Reg

2006: G.MARS.

RGLSI Active Ranks:

2006: A.R.G.M.

RW Bro. Appu Kurian

RGLSI Active Ranks:

2019: PRES.R.B.O.G.P.

2018: PRES.R.B.O.G.P.

2017: DY.R.G.M.

2012: A.R.G.M.

2006: R.G.STD.

RW Bro. Sunil George

Grand Representative of The National Grand Lodge of Romania near to the Grand Lodge of lndia

RGLSI Active Ranks:

2016: ARGM

RW Bro. Dr M George Eraly

Grand Representative of The Grand Lodge of New Jersey near to the Grand Lodge of lndia

RGLSI Active Ranks:

1998: R.G.MAR.

W Bro. Zubin George

RGLSI Active Ranks:

2024: A.R.G.M.

2021: R.G.SUPDT.OF W.

2020: R.G.SUPDT.OF W.

RW Bro. Reji Markos

RGLSI Active Ranks:

2006: R.G.BR.V.S.L.

2003: R.G.I.G.

OFFICERS FROM 1998 - 2023

S.No	Year	Worshipful Master	Secretary	Treasurer	Senior Warden	Junior Warden
1	1998-1999	V W Bro. Himmadal Moolchand	W Bro. Dr M George Eraly	Bro. Appu Kurian	W Bro. Rajesh G Asher	Bro. Sunil George
2	1999-2000	W Bro. Rajesh G Asher	W Bro. Dr M George Eraly	Bro. Appu Kurian	Bro. Sunil George	Bro. John K Paul
3	2000-2001	W Bro Joseph Markos	Bro. Sunil George	Bro. Jose Palathinkal	Bro. John K Paul	Bro. Titten Thomas
4	2001-2002	W Bro. Snail George	Bro. John K Paul	Bro. Rajiv Kumaran	Bro. Titten Thomas	Bro. Appu Kurian
5	2002-2003	WBro. John K Paul	Bro. Titten Thomas	W Bro. Navina B Khonna	Bro. Appu Kurian	Bro. Benny Kurian
6	2003-2004	WBro. Titten Thomas	Bro. Appu Kurian	W Bro. Navina B Khonna	Bro. Benny Kurian	Bro. Zubin George
7	2004-2005	WBro. Appu Kurian	Bro. Benny Kurian	W Bro. Joseph Markos	Bro. Zubin George	Bro. Jose Palathinkal
8	2005-2006	W Bro. Benny Kurian	W Bro. Sunil George	W Bro. Joseph Markos	Bro. Jose Palathinkal	Bro. K K Chacko
9	2006-2007	W Bro. Jose Palathinkal	W Bro. Sunil George	W Bro. Appu Kurian	Bro. K K Chacko	Bro. GG Poothicote
10	2007-2008	W Bro. K K Chacko	W Bro. Joseph Markos	W Bro. Sunil George	W Bro. GG Poothicote	Bro. E John Philipose
11	2008-2009	WBro. GG Poothicote	W Bro. Appu Kurian	W Bro. Sunil George	Bro. E John Philipose	Bro. Dr. K S Shyam
12	2009-2010	WBro. CJ Mathew	W Bro. Sunil George	W Bro. Appu Kurian	Bro. Dr. K S Shyam	Bro. Anind Narayanan
13	2010-2011	WBro. Dr KS Shyam	W Bro. Appu Kurian	W Bro. Sunil George	Bro. Arvind Narayanan	Bro. P H Hormis Tharakan
14	2011-2012	W Bro. Arvind Narayanan	W Bro. Sunil George	W Bro. Appu Kurian	Bro. P H Hormis Tharakan	Bro. K S Mangal
15	2012-2013	W Bro. PH Hormis Tharakan	W Bro. Benny Kurian	W Bro. Sunil George	Bro. K S Mangal	Bro. Dr Sunil M Eraly
16	2013-2014	W Bro. KS Mangal	Bro. Zubin George	W Bro. Sunil George	Bro. Dr Sunil M Eraly	Bro. Abraham Itty Ipe
17	2014-2015	W Bro. Zubin George	Bro. Dr Sunil M Eraly	W Bro. Sunil George	Bro. Abraham Itty Ipe	Bro. Sebastian Philip
18	2015-2016	WBro. Dr Sunil M Eraly	Bro. Abraham Itty Ipe	W Bro. Sunil George	Bro. Sebastian Philip	W Bro. Dr KS Shyam
19	2016-2017	W Bro. Abraham Itty Ipe	Bro. Sebastian Philip	W Bro. Benny Kurian	W Bro. Dr KS Shyam	Bro. Joseph Simon
20	2017-2018	W Bro. Sebastian Philip	VW Bro. Sunil George	W Bro. Benny Kurian	Bro. Joseph Simon	Bro. Thomas Philip
21	2018-2019	WBro. Joseph Simon	Bro. Thomas Issac	RW Bro. Sunil George	Bro. Thomas Philip	Bro. Dr KP Cherian
22	2019-2020	W Bro. Thomas Philip	W Bro. Zubin George	RW Bro. Sunil George	Bro. Dr KP Cherian	W Bro. Sailesh Sharma
23	2020-2021	W Bro. Thomas Philip	W Bro. Zubin George	RW Bro. Sunil George	Bro. Dr KP Cherian	W Bro. Sailesh Sharma
24	2021-2022	W Bro. Thomas Philip	W Bro. Zubin George	RW Bro. Sunil George	Bro. Dr KP Cherian	W Bro. Sailesh Sharma
25	2022-2023	WBro. Dr KP Cherian	RW Bro. Sunil George	W Bro. Zubin George	W Bro. Rank Santakumar	Bro. P L Avira Tharakan
26	2023-2024	W Bro. Zubin George	Bro. P L Avira Tharakan	RW Bro. Appu Cherian	Bro. P L Thomas Tharakan	Bro. Suraj George Verghese

SPECIAL RECOGNITION

Lodge Vanchinad No. 273, Kollam

Acknowledgment of Lodge Vanchinad No. 273, Kollam,

Lodge Vembanad No. 319 owes its existence, in a manner of speaking to Lodge Vanchinad No. 273, Kollam. Masonic procedure mandates a proposing lodge as pre-requisite to grant of warrant. With another lodge in the making to be proposed by the oldest lodge under Grand of Lodge in Kochi, it would have been inappropriate for another to be sponsored at the same time. The Worshipful Master and brethren of Lodge Vanchinad no. 273 stepped into the breach in true spirit of Masonic brotherhood and to their mentorship, nurturing and guiding us through baby steps, and continuing encouragement and support during the growing years we owe the strong foundation of Lodge Vembanad.

On this momentous occasion of our Silver Jubilee, we extend our especial greetings to the Brethren of Lodge Vanchinad No. 273 for their unwavering support and continued friendship over the past years. Your guidance and contributions have been invaluable in this incredible journey. Our gratitude for that parenting is unbounded and our trust in the continuation of the association is boundless.

RW Bro Abraham Markos

OSM, PDyGM, PRGM (SI)

Message

RW Bro. Abraham Markos, OSM, PDyGM, PRGM (SI) has a special place in the annals of Lodge Vembanad for it was he, as then Assistant Regional Grand Master (ARGM) of the Regional Grand Lodge of Southern India, provided the administrative support and personal commitment for that desire of a few brethren to come forth as Lodge Vembanad No. 319 by warrant of Grand Lodge of India in 1998. His continued encouragement to the Lodge has been unwavering ever since.

As a humble token of our appreciation and gratitude, RW Bro. Abraham Markos, OSM has been elected as an Honorary Member of Lodge Vembanad No. 319 only the second since consecration, with the founder-Master, RW Bro Himmatlal Moolchand as the other. We are confident that RW Bro Abraham Markos will be a constant inspiration and guide of the Lodge in the years to come.

Felix Lodge No. 2371 E.C

Felixstowe, UK

Twinning with Felix Lodge No. 2371 E.C

Things are done differently in Lodge Vembanad No. 319. We pioneered twinning with lodges of other jurisdictions. Our bonds with brethren Felix Lodge No. 2371 EC, Felixstowe, under the United Grand Lodge of England, goes back to two decades.

Inter-visitation evolved into twinning but this symbolic partnership, founded upon mutual respect and shared Masonic values, demonstrating commitment to fostering international Masonic unity and brotherhood at the lodge level took much effort for resolving matters administrative and protocol before approval was accorded by the two Grand Lodges. That has opened the way for other such proposals.