Valentine's Day: Kerala's Munnar preserves more than a century-old 'love in the time of cholera'

When Henry Mansfield Knight, a young general manager with a British planting company, arrived in Munnar in the late 19th century, little did he think that he would become an incredible part of the region's history, that too through a love story. With Henry was his lady love, Eleanor Isabel May. Though their love blossomed first in England, it grew manifold in the misty romantic hills of Munnar. The couple got married and settled in Munnar. The young Eleanor loved Munnar so much that wandering through its mountain ranges and riding with Henry, discovering its picturesque corners, were her favourite activities. 

Once, while riding through a beautiful landscape, the couple reached a hilltop, where Munnar's CSI church and cemetery currently stand. Moved by the breathtaking sight, Eleanor told Henry, "When I die, bury me on this hill." Little did they know that a tragic fate awaited Eleanor in the form of cholera. At the young age of 24, Henry's beloved wife passed away, even before the first Christmas after their wedding. Her husband laid her to rest where she wished to be buried. On her tomb, it's written 'The dearly beloved wife of Henry Mansfield Knight and youngest daughter of Beanfort Brabazon MD. Died 0 23 RD Dec 1894. Aged 25 years.'

Interestingly, though Eleanor's relatives wanted to take her body back to England, Henry insisted that she remain where she wanted to rest. He also built a beautiful tomb, with expensive marble from England. Henry remained in Munnar for years after her death and reportedly spent hours at the tomb. 

A church for a cemetery
In most cases, a cemetery is established after the church is built. However, Henry launched the CSI church initiative to ensure that Eleanor's tomb would not remain desolate. The church's construction began in 1910, and it was built in the Scottish architectural style, with materials shipped from England. Worship began here on April 16, 1911. It also includes a Bible and a piano, both over a century old. 

How to reach the church
The church is just about a kilometre from Munnar town. Taxis and autos can also be easily hired from the region, with CSI Christ Church as the destination. The church is on the roadside of National Highway 85. The location is called 'Old Munnar' and the bus stop is 'British Junction.' 

Prayers and other details
In the past, prayers were held here only in English and Tamil. Now, Malayalam services are also held. 
The burial site
The cemetery is also the final resting place for around 40 other British nationals. Interestingly, Eleanor's relatives still visit the tomb when they visit India. 
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