Mallu

Mallu is an informal demonym used to refer to people from the Indian state of Kerala or to those of Malayali ethnicity who speak Malayalam. The term is a shortened form of Malayali and is widely understood in India and among the Malayali diaspora, but it can be perceived as casual or insensitive in formal contexts, so Malayali or Malayalam-speaking is often preferred when precision or politeness is desired.

Geography and demographics: Most Mallus live in Kerala, where Malayalam is the dominant language. A large Malayali diaspora exists in the Gulf states—such as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman—as well as in North America, Europe, and parts of Southeast Asia, driven by labor migration, education, and professional opportunities.

Language: The Malayali people primarily speak Malayalam, a Dravidian language written in its own script. Malayalam is an official language of Kerala and Lakshadweep, with a rich literary tradition spanning ancient to modern periods and multiple regional dialects.

Culture and identity: Malayali culture is associated with Kerala’s classical arts, including Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, temple festivals, and distinctive cuisine that makes extensive use of coconut, rice, fish, and spices. The Malayalam film industry, often referred to as Mollywood, is a prominent cultural sector. The Malayali identity is also shaped by education, migration networks, and a widespread diaspora that maintains linguistic and cultural ties across continents.