Malayalees

Malayalees are an ethnic group native to the Indian state of Kerala and the Lakshadweep Islands. They share a common linguistic heritage, speaking the Malayalam language, which belongs to the Dravidian language family. The term "Malayalee" literally translates to "person of Malayalam." Their cultural identity is deeply intertwined with the history and geography of Kerala, a region known for its lush greenery, long coastline, and rich cultural traditions.

Historically, Malayalees have a long tradition of trade and migration, with significant diaspora communities found across the Middle East, North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia. This outward movement has contributed to the global spread of Kerala's distinctive cuisine, arts, and cinema. Kerala's society is known for its high literacy rates, progressive social indicators, and a strong emphasis on education and healthcare.

Malayalee culture encompasses a vibrant array of art forms, including Kathakali, a classical dance-drama, and Mohiniyattam, a graceful solo dance. They also have a rich literary tradition and a prolific film industry that has gained national and international recognition. Festivals like Onam, the harvest festival, and Vishu, the New Year, are celebrated with great enthusiasm, featuring elaborate feasts, traditional games, and cultural performances. Their religious landscape is diverse, with significant populations adhering to Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity, often coexisting peacefully.