Bishop Mathew Anikuzhikattil, the first and emeritus bishop of the eparchy of Idukki, was born on 23 September 1942, at Kuruvanal, near Pala. In 1961, he joined the St. Josephs Minor Seminary Kothamangalam. Having completed philosophical and theological formation in the St. Thomas Apostolic Seminary, Vadavathoor, Kottayam, he was ordained priest on 15 March 1971 by Bishop Mar Mathew Pothanamuzhi. In 1985 Fr. Mathew proceeded to the Catholic University of Leuven for higher studies in theology. He completed his studies successfully with a doctorate in Liturgical Theology.

In 1990 May he was appointed Chancellor and Secretary to the diocese, and visiting professor at Paurastya Vidyapitham Vadavathoor. Ten years of service as Chancellor gave him vast experience in the diocesan administration. He was appointed Rector of St. Josephs minor seminary, Kothamangalam in 2000. On March 2, 2003 Rev. Dr. Mathew Anikkuzhikkattil was consecrated as the first bishop of the Diocese of Idukki. He served as the Chairman of the K.C.B.C Commission for Family, Laity and Women, Member of K.C.B.C. SC/ST/BC Commission, and is now the Member of the Syro-Malabar Synodal Commission for St. Joseph's Pontifical Seminary Mangalapuzha.