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Unity Mall (Ekta Mall) in Thiruvananthapuram: A New Cultural and Commercial Landmark Set for 2026

Unity Mall (Ekta Mall) in Thiruvananthapuram: A New Cultural and Commercial Landmark Set for 2026

Thiruvananthapuram is steadily redefining its identity beyond governance and heritage. With the upcoming launch of Unity Mall, also known as Ekta Mall, the Kerala capital is preparing to add a nationally significant retail and cultural destination to its urban fabric. Scheduled for inauguration in February 2026, the project represents a major step in integrating traditional craftsmanship, regional identity, and modern retail infrastructure under one roof.

Backed by the Union Government, Unity Mall is envisioned as a platform that celebrates India’s artisanal legacy while creating sustainable market access for small producers and local entrepreneurs.

 

A National Concept with a Strong Kerala Identity

Unity Mall is part of a broader national initiative designed to bring Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged products and region-specific traditional goods into organized retail spaces. In Kerala, this vision takes a distinct local form; highlighting the state’s diverse craft traditions, indigenous products, and district-level specialties.

  • The project directly supports:
  • Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)
  • Local artisans and craft collectives
  • Producers associated with the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme

By creating a permanent, high-visibility marketplace, the mall aims to reduce dependency on temporary exhibitions and seasonal fairs, offering producers year-round exposure.

 

Location, Scale, and Project Execution

The Unity Mall is being developed at Pallippuram in Thiruvananthapuram, spread across 2.5 acres with a built-up area of approximately 1.9 lakh square feet. The project carries an estimated investment of ₹120 crore, underscoring its scale and long-term significance.

Construction is being executed by the Uralungal Labour Contract Cooperative Society, a body known for handling large public infrastructure projects in Kerala. As of the latest updates, close to 62 percent of the construction work has been completed, indicating steady progress toward the 2026 launch timeline.

 

Retail Focus: Showcasing District-Level Excellence

At the heart of Unity Mall is its curated retail model. The mall will feature:

  • 50 dedicated stalls for ODOP and GI-tagged products from all districts of Kerala
  • Additional retail spaces showcasing products from other Indian states and Union Territories

This structure ensures that Unity Mall functions not merely as a shopping destination, but as a cultural map; allowing visitors to explore regional identities through crafts, textiles, food products, and traditional merchandise.

For tourists, this creates a single destination to access authentic regional products. For artisans, it offers a consistent, organized sales environment with higher visibility.

 

Beyond Shopping: A Multi-Experience Destination

Unity Mall is designed to go well beyond conventional retail. The project integrates multiple public and entertainment spaces, positioning it as a full-fledged lifestyle and cultural hub.

Planned facilities include:

  • A dedicated amphitheatre for cultural performances and public events
  • Large exhibition halls for curated showcases and trade events
  • Two multiplex theatres, each seating around 380 people
  • Multiple event zones for festivals, launches, and seasonal programs
  • Gaming and leisure zones catering to younger visitors
  • A large food court with seating capacity for up to 10,000 people

This mix ensures that the mall appeals to families, tourists, students, and cultural enthusiasts alike.

 

Inclusive and Visitor-Friendly Infrastructure

Accessibility and convenience have been built into the project design. Unity Mall will include:

  • Dedicated facilities for persons with disabilities
  • Structured parking with space for around 200 vehicles
  • Clearly demarcated zones to manage large visitor volumes

These features make the mall suitable for hosting large public gatherings, exhibitions, and festivals without compromising visitor comfort.

 

Impact on Tourism and the Local Economy

Once operational, Unity Mall is expected to strengthen Thiruvananthapuram’s tourism ecosystem. Positioned as a permanent cultural attraction, it complements existing heritage sites, museums, and cultural centers in the city.

Key anticipated outcomes include:

  • Increased tourist dwell time in the capital
  • Improved income stability for local producers
  • Greater national visibility for Kerala’s GI-tagged products
  • Enhanced linkage between culture, commerce, and tourism

By aligning traditional industries with modern retail infrastructure, the project bridges the gap between heritage preservation and economic sustainability.

 

Why Unity Mall Matters in the Long Term

Unity Mall is not just another commercial development. Its significance lies in its purpose-driven design; one that prioritizes cultural representation, inclusivity, and economic empowerment.

As Kerala continues to position itself as a destination for responsible tourism and cultural experiences, Unity Mall stands out as:

  • A permanent showcase of India’s artisanal diversity
  • A scalable model for integrating ODOP initiatives into urban retail
  • A landmark that reflects contemporary India’s respect for tradition

 

Conclusion:

With its planned launch in 2026, Unity Mall (Ekta Mall) is set to redefine how culture, commerce, and tourism intersect in Thiruvananthapuram. By giving traditional producers a permanent, high-quality platform and offering visitors an immersive cultural experience, the mall is poised to become one of the city’s most important new landmarks.

For Kerala, it represents not just infrastructure growth, but a thoughtful investment in identity, inclusivity, and long-term economic value.

 

FAQs:

When is Unity Mall expected to open?
The mall is scheduled for inauguration in February 2026.

Where is Unity Mall located in Thiruvananthapuram?
It is being developed at Pallippuram, within the city limits.

What kind of products will be sold at Unity Mall?
The mall will feature GI-tagged and ODOP products from all districts of Kerala, along with select items from other states and Union Territories.

Is Unity Mall only a shopping space?
No. It also includes theatres, exhibition areas, an amphitheatre, food courts, and event zones.

Who is constructing the project?
The construction is being handled by the Uralungal Labour Contract Cooperative Society.

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