One story regarding the origin of Chathamangalam can be traced back to a fight between two groups who came to see a festival at Chethukadavu. The fight resulted in many deaths; the area was later named Kunnamangalam. The victims were called Chathamangalam, and those who led the fight were called Padanilam. Another story behind Chathamangalam is related to the ancient temple of Chathamangalathappan. It is believed that this temple, which is related to the Guruvayur temple, had its stone laid by Naranathu Bhranthan. As the families of the sorcerers live here, it is called the place of Kuttichathan, or Chathamangalam.The market of Chathamangalam is Kattangal. It originated from the name Kettuthangal because the place had been a relief, a place of rest for people who carried heavy loads on the Mukkam-Kozhikode route. 

The village contains a large variety of religious buildings, including churches, mosques, temples and kavu. Festivals of Nagakali, Kuttichathan and Bhagavathi are popular. The village's Areekulangara Devi temple is on a scale equal to the Kadampuzha Devi temple of the Malappuram district. Clubs and youth organizations play an active part in the development of culture. There are also mini stadiums in Pazhur and Poolakkode. Football, volleyball and cricket are popular sports in the region.