I am a Keralite

The Polygenetic classification of the people of Kerala were the coloured skinned Negritos and Proto-Austroloids, usurped by the MediterraneanDravidians and the Aryans of the north. Today the people of Kerala, the Keralites or Malayalisare a multi-ethnic group with varied culture, traditions and cuisines. This small strip of land has more art forms than it could contain. Majority of the art forms originated from temple art forms. Koodiyattam, declared by UNESCO as the Human Heritage Art and Kathakali are art forms enacting scenes from scriptures. Kalaripayattu, an ancient martial art form believed to have originated in the 3rd century BC- 2nd century AD. Art forms such as Mohiniyattam, Theyam, Margam kali, Oppana, DuffuMuttu, Chavittunadakam are all just a few names in the long list. The other distinctive feature of Kerala is its religious secularism. Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, Jainism, Buddhism, Judaism and Sikhism all prevail in harmony. Religious festivals like Christmas, Diwali, Holi and Eid are celebrated by all irrespective of Religion. No festival in Kerala is celebrated sans pomp and grandeur. Richly decorated elephant processions and Chendamelam are the highlights of most of their festivals. The renowned ThrissurPooram, is the greatest human gathering in Asia. Kerala Cuisine is ruled by Coconut in its various forms. Its cuisine varies according to geography of the state. Each district, each street differs from their recipes and likings. The food is usually spicy owing to its climate. People around the world travel down to Kerala to try out the famous ‘karimeenpollichathu’ – A pan roasted marinated fish covered in plantain leaf, Duck Roast, prepared mainly in peper, with appam or Puttu. We vouch that these are finger licking good and must try outs at least once in lifetime. Though Kerala is coastal state, fishing is not the main occupation or source of income. However wide variety of sea food is exported from Kerala. Another occupation is agriculture and farming. Kerala is one of the largest exporters of Spices in the world. Kerala yields almost 90% of pepper and natural rubber in India. Kerala is also known for its coir and handicrafts industry. Another important source of income is Tourism and Foreign remittances.