Academic

Foundation and Vision

Marthoma Vidyaniketan was established on 3 July 1990 by Mar Joseph Powathil, the Archbishop of Changanassery, as a lay theological formation centre dedicated to deepening the Christian faith and strengthening the intellectual tradition of the Syro-Malabar Church. The institute was founded with the approval and recognition of the Holy See. Since its inception, Marthoma Vidyaniketan has served as a vibrant academic community committed to theological study, pastoral formation, and the preservation of Eastern Christian heritage.

Academic Formation

Our courses are taught by experienced faculty deeply rooted in both the academic and spiritual traditions of the Church.

Our curriculum offers a broad and robust range of theological studies, including:

Syriac Liturgy
Systematic and Oriental Theology
Syriac Interpretation of Sacred Scripture
Patristic Studies and Eastern Fathers
Church History
Syriac Language and Literature
Eastern Christian Spirituality
Moral Theology
Teachings of the Catholic Church

Academic Affiliation

Marthoma Vidyanikethan functions under the direct supervision of the Pontifical Oriental Institute of Religious Studies (Paurastya Vidyapitham), Vadavathoor. The institute follows the academic norms and standards of the Faculty of Theology and maintains close collaboration with the wider Oriental theological community.

Leadership

Over the years, Marthoma Vidyanikethan has been enriched by the guidance of eminent scholars, including:

Mar Joseph Perumthottam

Former Director (2002-2015)

Fr. Dr.Jose Kochuparampil

Former Director (2015-2020)

Fr. Dr. Joseph Kollara

Former Director

Over the years, Marthoma Vidyanikethan has been enriched by the guidance of eminent scholars, including:

Fr. Dr. Thomas Karukakkalam

Present Director

Fr. James Kokkavayalil

Assistant Director

Elevation as an Institute for the Study of Laity

In December 2025, Marthoma Vidyaniketan received significant recognition when the Dicastery for Catholic Education in Rome elevated it to the status of an Institute for the Theological Study of Laity. This milestone affirms the institute’s long-standing commitment to forming educated, responsible, and mission-oriented lay faithful for the Church.

Annual Academic and Ecclesial Events

Every year on July 3, the institute hosts three major events:

These events bring together scholars, clergy, students, and faithful to deepen theological reflection and celebrate the rich heritage of St. Thomas Christians.