Cantonment Maidan

Cantonment Maidan or Peeranki Maidan or Peeringee Maidan is a historical ground, closely associated with the social and political history of Kerala. It is situated at the eastern portion of Old Quilon town, near to the present S.N College. It hosts the main exhibitions, party meetings and city's main cultural and sports events regularly. Vanitha Fest, Mango Fest, Kollam Bible Convention, Kerala Kaumudi Centenary Expo, various political party meets, Rallies, Cricket & Football Tournaments and other public functions are regularly taking place at Cantonment Maidan.HistoryCantonment Maidan is situated at the east of old Quilon city. Two hundred years back, the maidan extended over a sizeable area of East Kollam. There were no railway connectivity in South Kerala then. Due to the importance of Kollam with public offices, Port and its trade importance, a British Garrison was stationed in Kollam - which was subsequently reduced to a native regiment, as a protective force for the then Maharaja of the erstwhile state of Travancore.Battle of QuilonIn 1809, the local militia and the Army of Travancore stationed around Kollam attacked the British Garrison at the Cantonment Maidan on the heels of Velu Thampi Dalawa. The British force led by Col. Chalmers proved victorious in that six hours lasted war, that is known as Battle of Quilon. All the insurrectionist who participated in the war were court-martialled and got hanged at the maidan.