Though chronologically the second in line, Rajyasamacharam is the first
Malayalam newspaper that proved to be a turning point in the Malayalam journalistic field. This religious journal was started in 1847 by Dr. Herman Gundert and it appeared regularly till December 1850. It was first published from a sleepy hamlet, Illikkunnu, in
Thalassery.
Though it was started for evangelical purposes, Rajyasamacharam soon became a forum for a new style, meeting the requirements and expectations of ordinary readers. Gundert took special interest in reporting and spreading stories of human love and understanding; this technique helped in formulating the reader’s viewpoints against caste distinction and related injustices. Another positive outcome of the publication of Rajyasamacharam was that it helped to kindle in the minds of the Malayalees, an interest in the medium of printing.
