"Astrology" is indeed a scientific discipline that studies stars, planets, and their influence on humanity. The "Kerala Jyotisha Parishad" is a movement that began in 1971, centered in Thrissur, with the noble aim of bringing together astrologers and astronomy enthusiasts across Kerala to work towards the advancement of this scientific field.

The birth of the \"Kerala Jyotisha Parishad\" in Thrissur was the realization of a dream by A.V. Subrahmanyan Panicker, popularly known by the title Avanangatt Kalari Sri A.V.S. Panicker. He was a devout believer and had a deep understanding of the infinite and profound possibilities of astrology. With the unwavering support of luminaries like Jyotisha Ratna K.K. Sukumaran, Jyotsyan Payyur Balakrishna Panicker, and numerous other talented individuals, Panicker's vision came to life. The movement also enjoyed the patronage and blessings of Sarvashri Bharatam Thampuran, the successor of Shakthan Thampuran, whose palace in Thrissur once served as the administrative hub of the region. Recognizing the necessity of a permanent establishment and the boundless potential of the movement, the then governing committee, with the approval of the Cochin Devaswom Board, allocated land for the construction of a permanent office. In 1971, the foundation stone was laid by His Holiness Sri Jayendra Saraswati Swamigal, the pontiff of the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham, marking the beginning of the construction of the building. With the relentless enthusiasm of the governing committee and the cooperation of those dedicated to the growth of the movement, the construction work was swiftly completed, and the office was relocated to the new building. Simultaneously, the Parishad made a significant contribution to the field of astrology by publishing the \"Kerala Jyotisha Parishad Valiya Panchangam\" (Kerala Jyotisha Parishad Grand Almanac). This publication, a testament to the Parishad's meticulous craftsmanship, marked a major milestone in its growth and established a comprehensive contribution to the astrological community. This initiative was a pivotal moment in the Parishad's journey, solidifying its role as a cornerstone in the advancement of astrology.

The founding President of the Parishad, Sri A.V.S. Panicker, was deeply committed to expanding the activities of the organization across Kerala. Along with his team members, he traveled extensively throughout the state, striving to nurture and grow the movement. As a result, in 1971, a meeting was held in Ernakulam under his leadership, during which the Ernakulam District Committee was formed. This committee included prominent individuals from various fields, such as G. Dharasingh Mahakavi G. Sankarakurup, who was then a member of the KPCC, and many others who had left their mark in their respective domains. Subsequently, the Parishad focused on its secondary yet significant goal: the establishment of a Jyotisha Samskrita Vidyapeetham (an institution for astrology and Sanskrit studies). A large number of distinguished and talented individuals actively participated in this endeavor, infusing the movement with enthusiasm and dedication. Their active involvement ensured the steady growth of the organization. During this period, the Parishad also benefited from the collaboration of several eminent personalities, including Sri Narayana Pisharodi, a Sanskrit scholar; Mahakavi Vallathol; Professor N.D. Krishnanunni; and K.P.C. Anujan Bhattathirippad, among many others. Their contributions and active participation invigorated the Parishad's activities, further strengthening its mission and impact.

Following the sudden demise of Sri A.V.S. Panicker in 1975, who was then serving as the President, his elder son, Adv. A.R. Unnikrishna Panicker, was unanimously elected to lead the movement. The new leadership brought youthful energy and dynamism, significantly accelerating the pace of activities. The Parishad set numerous ambitious goals, including establishing its own printing press, a well-equipped library to support study and research, and realizing the long-cherished dream of founding a school. During this period, Adv. Ravindranath Menon served as the Secretary, and under this leadership, the governing committee initiated numerous activities to achieve these objectives. One notable achievement during this time was the praise received from Dr. B.V. Raman, the renowned astrologer and editor of the prestigious 'Astrological Magazine' based in Bangalore. He published an article commending the Parishad's Panchangam (almanac), which was a significant recognition of the organization's efforts. Over the next 16 years, under this leadership, the Parishad achieved remarkable milestones. The contributions of prominent astrologers such as Amballoor Achyutha Kurup, Nadavarambu Krishnakurup, Kolazhi Gopalakrishna Panicker, Jyotsyan M.B. Kurup, Jyotsyan T.K.G. Panicker, and Paravoor Sreedharan Tantri, among others, played a crucial role in the Parishad's growth. Additionally, individuals from diverse fields, such as Adv. A.S. Unni Panicker and Major Prof. M.N. Chettiar, contributed significantly, forming an extensive network of support that strengthened the organization's foundation. This period marked a phase of sustained growth and achievement for the Parishad, as it continued to expand its influence and fulfill its mission with the collective efforts of its dedicated members and leaders.

In 1991, the untimely demise of Adv. Unnikrishna Panicker deeply affected the functioning of the Parishad. However, his brother, Sri A.S. Venugopala Panicker, stepped forward to shoulder the immense responsibilities, and the members unanimously elected him to the leadership position. Jyotsyan Payyoor Balakrishna Panicker took up the role of Secretary. During this period, the Parishad launched its publication, \"Aarsha Jyothishaprakashini\", a monthly magazine aimed at promoting astrology. The necessity of such a publication to propagate the science of astrology was what drove the Parishad to undertake this initiative. The magazine, adorned with rich content and illustrations, continues to be in circulation today and has played a significant role in conveying the Parishad's views and opinions to the public. After a few years, due to age-related limitations, Sri Payyoor Balakrishna Panicker expressed his desire to step down from the Secretary's position. Major Prof. A.N. Chettiar was nominated to succeed him, and with the full approval of the governing committee, he was elevated to the role of Secretary. A long-cherished dream of the Parishad was realized in 1995 with the establishment of the A.V.S. Panicker Memorial \"Institute of Astrology\", a school dedicated to teaching astrology and Sanskrit. This institution marked a significant milestone in the Parishad's growth. Under the guidance of renowned astrologers such as Koottanad Ravunni Panicker, Shornur P.K. Balakrishna Panicker, and Aloor Madhava Panicker, among many other distinguished individuals, the institute continues to offer a three-year course in astrology. So far, four batches of students have successfully completed the program. The inception of this school was another landmark in the growth of the Kerala Jyotisha Parishad, furthering its mission to promote and preserve the ancient sciences of astrology and Sanskrit.

In addition to all this, the Parishad expanded its activities into various other areas during this period, achieving remarkable milestones. These included organizing astrology seminars beneficial to the field, facilitating discussions to resolve contentious issues related to astrology, and publishing useful books to aid astrologers in daily analysis and other practices. These initiatives significantly contributed to the growth and recognition of the Parishad. The Parishad placed special emphasis on ensuring the cooperation and participation of eminent scholars and critics from across the country in such endeavors. This collaborative approach further enhanced the brilliance of the Parishad's activities. The achievements of the Parishad, accomplished at an extraordinary pace, were truly commendable. A prime example of this is the awards instituted by the Parishad. Each year, the Parishad selects and honors distinguished scholars who have made invaluable contributions to the field of astrology with the \"Daivajna Puraskaram\" (Award for Astrology Scholars). Similarly, the Parishad recognizes an astrologer who has demonstrated exceptional expertise in astrology by conferring the \"Jyotisha Acharya\" title annually. To identify such unparalleled talents, the Parishad has formed a panel of experts, comprising scholars and eminent personalities from various fields, to evaluate and select the awardees. These initiatives not only highlight the Parishad's commitment to promoting astrology but also serve as a testament to its dedication to honoring and preserving the contributions of exceptional individuals in the field.

At a time when Sri A.S. Gopalapanicker, the President, was shining brilliantly in his role, radiating like the sun with unparalleled splendor, his unexpected demise came as a heavy blow to the Parishad. This loss was a profound shock to the organization. Following this, Adv. A.U. Raghu Raman Panicker was unanimously chosen to take the helm of the Parishad. He assumed the leadership role with a determination to continue the legacy of his predecessors, inspiring everyone to work together as a united force. Under his guidance, the Parishad continued to achieve new heights through equally brilliant and impactful activities, ensuring that the momentum of progress remained undiminished.

The release of the \"Panchangam Diary\", which combined the traditional Panchangam with a diary format to make it more useful for astrologers, marked the beginning of a new chapter in the field of Panchangam publications. This innovative step was a significant milestone for the Parishad. During the Parishad's 34th Annual Meeting, graced by the esteemed presence of His Holiness Sri Jayendra Saraswati Swamigal, the pontiff of the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham, a momentous announcement was made. Swamigal declared that the Parishad's astrology study course would receive recognition from Kanchipuram University. This announcement was one of the most valuable achievements for the Parishad, further solidifying its reputation and contributions to the field of astrology.

The behind-the-scenes contributors of the Parishad dream of transforming its Jyotisha-Sanskrit study school into a 'Deemed University'. They aspire to extend its fame not only across India but also to foreign countries. There is no doubt that the Parishad has the capability to nurture new contributors and innovative ideas selflessly, ensuring the continued growth and success of this movement.

May the Kerala Jyotisha Parishad continue to lead the way in achieving numerous milestones that bring hope to the science of astrology, astrologers, and astrology enthusiasts alike. May its glory rise sky high, and may the Almighty bless its endeavors. We pray for its continued success and divine grace.