On the Nairs of Kerala : Origins, social organization and martial heritage
The Nairs (or Nayars) of Kerala are an integral part of Kerala's Hindu population and history. They traditionally served as the ruling and military community, dominating the historical landscape for over a millennium. Their matrilineal customs, where lineage is traced through mothers and property passes through daughters, particularly captivated European authors and anthropologists for centuries, leading to extensive literature on this unique tradition. This post primarily explores the origins of the Nairs, their social organization, and their martial heritage. Origin of the Name 'Nair' The significance and the origin of the name 'Nair' remains a subject of historical debate. One prominent theory suggests it derives from 'Naga,' referring to the serpent race, given the widespread serpent worship among Nairs. Each traditional Nair 'tharavad' (household) featured a 'Sarpa Kavu,' a sacred grove dedicated to serpent deities. Furthermore, Nair wom...