Last updated on May 21st, 2024 at 02:30 pm
If you are looking for interesting facts about Kerala people, usually called Malayali or Malabaris, then this blog post is for you.
In this blog post, we have compiled 44 facts about Kerala people related to their life, culture, behavior, language, food and more.
Who is Malayali or What is Malayali?
A Malayali is someone who speaks Malayalam, one of India’s six classical languages of India. They are people with family roots in Kerala or who live in Kerala. Simply put, a Malayali is a person whose first language is Malayalam.
44 Facts about Kerala People or Malayali People
Now we are going to explore some Kerala people’s facts
1. Malayalis are ahead in giving negative compliments
Malayalis have a unique cultural trait where they often express admiration or positive feedback through what appears to be negative compliments, a practice known as “sneering praise”. Malayalis in the age group of 35 and above start their conversation with negative compliments like “Have you lost weight? Are you sick?”.
When a person working abroad comes home for vacation, on the first day a common Malayali is asked; When you come? When are you going back? Really funny facts about Mallu’s, right?
2. Malayali has the characteristic to interfere in every issue of his neighbor
A Malayali often cares more about what’s happening in other people’s lives than their own. If there’s a kid next door who goes to school, they might ask questions like “Why study? Where do you study?” and then keep asking about that child’s education and plans. Malayalis tend to meddle in everything or get jealous for no reason.
3. If a problem affects everyone, they’ll all deal with it together
No matter what, if the Malayalees face a common problem, they’ll unite beyond any differences of caste, religion, or color and handle it well. There are lots of examples. They came together to face the Kerala floods 2018—that’s just one instance.
4. Malayalis’ and Malabaris’
Kerala people are usually known as Malayalis’ or Malayali People as they speak the Malayalam language. Alternatively, they are also called ‘Malabaris’, especially outside the state of Kerala or India. It’s because the name Malabar is used to refer to the northern region of the state. The term (Malabari) gained historical significance through the Arabic, and European traders and also through historical texts. So, the term Malabaris’ denotes the people originating from this state.
5. Keralites working in 185 of 195 Nations in the world
This is one of the facts about Malayali people from Kerala who are found working in 185 out of the 195 countries worldwide. They work in various industries like healthcare, IT, engineering, and many other fields. Significant of them are in the United Arab Emirates with 773,000 as of February 2024. Following Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada. The widespread presence of Keralites globally is due to Kerala’s high literacy rate and the tradition of working abroad. It also greatly benefits the state’s economy through remittances.
6. Wherever you go in the world, you will find a Malayali
There is a saying about Keralites that “If there is life on the Moon, you can see a Malayali there running a tea shop”. That exactly gives a clear picture of Keralites. You can find a Malayali people in any part of this world!
Santhosh George Kulangara, a media entrepreneur (owner of Safari TV) from Kerala, who traveled to more than 130 countries and documented his experience for the Keralites, is poised to become India’s first space tourist. He has been slated to fly with Virgin Galactic since 2007. He awaits his journey into space following the recent trips by the company’s founder Richard Branson and Amazon’s Jeff Bezos.
Of course, we can see a Keralite on the moon shortly 🙂
7. Kerala’s Athletes: Pioneers in India’s Olympic History
Kerala has produced numerous Olympians who have symbolized India across various track and field events. These exhibited the state’s strong legacy in athletics on the international stage.
P. T. Usha, hailing from Kerala, is one of India’s most celebrated athletes, often nicknamed the “Queen of Indian track and field” for her remarkable performances in the Olympics, specifically in the 1984 Los Angeles Games. In that event, she narrowly missed a medal in the 400m hurdles.
Kerala’s contribution to India’s Olympic endeavors stretches beyond individual athletes. It has also contributed to team events, with athletes like K. M. Beenamol and Chitra K. Soman participating in the 4x400m relay in multiple Olympic Games.
8. Kerala People are leaders in alcohol consumption in India
This is one of kind shocking Facts about people of Kerala. Kerala holds the distinction of being the state with the highest liquor consumption rates in India. This trend is highlighted by the fact that both urban and rural populations in Kerala exhibit higher percentages of alcohol use compared to the national average.
9. The life expectancy of Malayalis is much higher than the national average
Compared to other states, people in Kerala live longer. According to 2019 data, Kerala life expectancy is 78.29 years. Meanwhile, India’s national average is 70.91 years.
10. Malayalees are hard workers if they leave the state
Malayalees might seem laid-back when they’re in Kerala, but when they go outside their home state, they work very hard. They do their best and are willing to give up a lot to improve their family’s life. That’s why you’ll often find Malayalees leading major companies around the world.
11. Malayalees Spend a Lot of Money on the Lottery
Lotteries and raffles are common all over the world. But Malayalees, in particular, spend a significant portion of their money on lottery tickets. This habit is especially noticeable in families with lower incomes, where they might use 40 to 60 percent of their earnings on lotteries. Given that the lottery is one of the top two ways the Kerala government makes money, it’s clear how widespread this practice is. Even when they’re living in other countries, Malayalees tend to keep up this trend. This is a surprising fact about Malayali people.
12. Malayalees don’t choose friends based on caste or religion.
In other parts of India, this is one of the unique Kerala People Facts. They don’t pick friends based on their religion or caste. A Hindu’s best friend might be a Muslim or a Christian, and it’s the same the other way around.
13. New home and a vehicle is a common dream
Every Malayali dreams of having a new home and car even if they don’t have a driving license. It is because of the tradition of people that these are fundamental to show status in the community. Sometimes, these things are wrongly considered as the signal of a successful life.
14. Malayali film worker won Academy Award
Kerala’s film industry, known as Mollywood, has made a wide range of critically acclaimed movies that reflect the cultural diversity and social issues of the region. People of Kerala film industries are highly skilled actors, directors and technicians.
Resul Pookutty, a Keralite, won an Academy Award in 2008 for Best Sound Mixing for the movie “Slumdog Millionaire.”
15. Malaiyali leads Indian Space Research Organization( ISRO)
You can see a Malayali in the leadership of ISRO. As of this writing, 10 ISRO chairman have been appointed so far. It is noteworthy that three of them, including the current chairman, are Malayalis. Those are G. Madhavan Nair, K. Radhakrishnan and S. Somanath (Chairman since 15 January 2022).
16. Malayali is the biggest property owner of Burj Khalifa
Never underestimate Malayali people as they can buy anything in the world if they want. Meet George V Nereamparambil, a man who sold waste at the age of 11 and now is the biggest property owner of the biggest building in the word, Burj Khalifa. He owns 22 apartments in Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, more than anyone in this world. Everything started when a relative teased him by saying “you couldn’t enter Burj Khalifa”; rest is history. His net worth is Rs.4800 crores ($US 580 million).
17. Malayalis are on the top 5 list of most suicide cases
Keralites are also on the list of top 5 most suicide rates in India. According to the data of 2020, Kerala is on the 3rd rank of the top suicide rates with rate of 24 per 100k people compared to 21.6 in 2015.
18. Group Teasing
Now move on to fun facts about Malabaris. Malayalis usually don’t miss a chance to tease someone, especially when they’re together. For example, when Malayali friends meet up for a special event, if someone is quiet, the others will start teasing them.
Read Also: 100 Interesting Facts about Kerala State( History, Culture, Tourism, Unknown and More)
19. Population of Keralites
There are approximately 40 million Malayalis worldwide and among them 3.51 million Malayalis living in the Indian state of Kerala.
20. Language spoken
Malayalis predominantly speak Malayalam, which is one of the six classical languages of India.
21. Common Religions among Kerala People
The Malayali population consists of different religious groups, with the majority being Hindus (55%), followed by Muslims (27%) and Christians (18%).
22. Geographic Distribution
Malayalis are primarily concentrated in southwestern India, from Mangalore to Kanyakumari, and the islands of Lakshadweep in the Arabian Sea.
23. Language and Literature
Malayalam literature has ancient origins and includes renowned poets like Cherusseri Namboothiri, Thunchaththu Ezhuthachan, and Poonthanam Nambudiri.
24. Architecture in the Life of Kerala People
Traditional Malayali architecture is adapted to the region’s tropical climate, characterized by low walls, sloping roofs, and the use of timber as the primary structural material.
25. Cuisine in Malayalees
Malayali cuisine is diverse and known for its use of spices, coconut, and traditional dishes like sadhya (a vegetarian meal that includes more than 20-27 dishes), puttu (steamed rice cake), and appam (fermented rice pancake).
Read Also: 17 Kerala Food Facts: Revealing Kerala Cuisine’s most famous foods!
26. Performing Arts
Kerala has a rich tradition of performing arts including classical dance forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam.
27. Festivals of Keralites
Malayalis celebrate various festivals such as Onam, Vishu, Deepavali, Christmas and more. Each has unique cultural significance and traditional practices.
28. Literary Contributions by Malayali
Malayali literature has been enriched by iconic figures like G. Sankara Kurup, S. K. Pottekkatt, Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai, M. T. Vasudevan Nair, O. N. V. Kurup, and Akkitham Achuthan Namboothiri. They have made significant contributions to modern Malayalam literature.
29. Music and Dance
Beyond classical dance forms, Malayali people have a rich musical ancestry with legends like Swati Tirunal, Shadkala Govinda Maarar, and contemporary musicians like K. J. Yesudas contribute to the world of music.
30. Boat Races in Kerala
Vallam Kali, or boat races, are a famous tradition in Kerala. Malayali people are crazy about this events. Events like the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, Champakulam Moolam Boat Race, and Aranmula Boat Race attract locals and tourists alike.
31. Martial Arts Legacy
Maliyali practices Kalaripayattu for forming their body to face all challenges and maintaining fitness. Kalaripayattu, is the ancient martial art form of Kerala. It is considered one of the oldest in existence. It was widely practiced in any part of Kerala. But the invention and use gun reduced the practice. It has played a substantial role in the life of Keralites formerly in defending against intruders and settling disputes.
32. Architectural Heritage
The extraordinary architectural style of Kerala, labeled by Nalukettu form and traditional homes designed to suit the tropical climates. This showcases the craftsmanship and cultural aesthetics of Malayali architecture.
33. Folk Arts of Keralites
Malayalis have a rich tradition of folk arts like Theyyam, Ottamthullal, Margamkali, Velakali, and Kolkali, each with its own cultural significance and performance style.
34. Keralites and Traffic Rules in Kerala
Keralites are good drivers but they don’t follow(not all) the traffic rules. But if you see someone abroad, they will extremely follow the rules with fear in that country. This is mainly due to the system differences. In Kerala, traffic violations are not taken seriously by the departments and even with the political hold in local parties, you can escape easily from the punishments.
35. Traditional Attire
Malayalis have unique traditional attire, with men often wearing white dhoti and shirts. Whereas women adorn themselves in graceful sarees like Kasavu sarees with golden borders for special occasions. However, a certain percentage of teens and young people follow modern dress(western).
36. Religious Diversity
Kerala people are well known for its religious and diversity, with temples, mosques, churches, and synagogues coexisting harmoniously, showcasing the secular fabric of Malayali society.
37. Educational Achievements
Malayalis have a strong emphasis on education, leading to high literacy rates in Kerala. With a focus on both traditional and modern educational systems, they lead compared to other states in India.
38. Environmental Consciousness
Kerala is recognized for its environmental initiatives and efforts towards sustainable development, with projects like afforestation, waste management, and conservation of natural resources. Moreover, Keralites and cleanliness concerned the community.
39. Healthcare System of Kerala People
The state of Kerala boasts a well-developed healthcare system, with a focus on primary healthcare, public health campaigns, and initiatives to improve the comprehensive health and well-being of its residents.
40. Social Welfare Programs
Kerala has carried out various social welfare programs and schemes. They aim to uplift marginalized communities, provide social security benefits, and promote inclusive growth across diverse sections of society.
41. Art and Craftsmanship of Malayali
Malayalis are renowned for their artistic skills and craftsmanship. These are seen in traditional crafts like handloom weaving, wood carving, pottery, and mural painting that contemplate the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. Moreover, they have good skills in gold ornamental works as Kerala is the leading state of gold consumption.
42. Community Festivals
Malayalis celebrate a plethora of community festivals and rituals that emphasize the cultural vibrancy of the region, with events like temple festivals, village fairs, and traditional art performances bringing communities together.
Read Also: 100 Kerala Basic Facts Questions and Answers
43. Language Preservation
Efforts are being made to preserve and encourage the Malayalam language and literature through educational institutions, cultural organizations, and literary events. They also grabbed initiatives to safeguard the linguistic heritage of Kerala.
44. Tourism Mindset
Kerala’s natural beauty, backwaters, hill stations, wildlife sanctuaries, and Ayurvedic retreats attract tourists from around the world. It adds to the state’s economy and showcases the tourism potential of the region. Of course, Keralites are well aware of the possibilities of Kerala tourism and they are rebuilding the experiences for the visitors.
I hope these facts about the Kerala people were helpful to you. Consider sharing it with your friends and family members who want to explore Kerala people’s facts. Thanks for reading.
FAQs
Who is the most famous Malayali in the world?
Actor Mohanlal is the world’s most famous Malayali. In 2019, the Government of India honored him with the Padma Bhushan. He is the first Indian actor to be awarded the honorary rank of lieutenant colonel in the Territorial Army. CNN-News18 named Mohanlal as one of “the men who changed the face of Indian Cinema.”
He has acted in over 400 films, enjoying a remarkable career that spans more than four decades.
Are Malayali Hindu?
No. The Malayali community consists of Hindus, Muslims, Christians, and others. Christianity was introduced to Kerala in 52 AD, before which the people in the region were Hindus. The 1901 Census showed that 68.5% of the population were Hindus, a figure that dropped to 54.9% according to the 2011 census.
Who are some famous Malayali personalities?
The famous Malayali personalities are Mohanlal, Mammootty, Shashi Tharoor, Adi Shankara, KJ Yesudas, PT Usha, M.T. Vasudevan Nair, AK Antony and K R Narayanan.
