Unveiling the Rich History: Ancient Names of Kerala

The state of Kerala in India has an intriguing and rich history, which is reflected in its diverse linguistic and cultural heritage. While the current name is #8216;Kerala,#8217; the region has been known by different names throughout its ancient times. This article delves into the various names that ancient Kerala was known by, exploring their etymology and historical significance.

Understanding Ancient Kerala Names

Typically, when referring to the ancient name of Kerala, one might think of the contemporary name #8216;Kerala.#8217; However, it is important to note that the name #8216;Keralam#8217; is the true current name of the state. In the native Malayalam language, the ending #8216;am#8217; sound changes or is removed based on the context. Therefore, when asked about the actual current name, the answer is #8216;Keralam#8217; rather than #8216;Kerala#8217; or #8216;Keral.#8217;

A thorough understanding of Malayalam grammar can help clarify this distinction. According to this understanding, the word #8216;Kerala#8217; is closer to the actual name, as the final #8216;am#8217; sound is often removed, making the pronunciation closer to #8216;Kerala.#8217; Thus, it is crucial to recognize the nuances of the language in understanding the etymology of place names.

Travancore, another name associated with Kerala, was known for its relatively high literacy rate and progressive government. After Indian independence, Travancore and Cochin (now known as Kochi) merged, and the state was officially named Kerala in 1956. The boundaries were then redrawn, and the name was officially adopted to reflect the new administrative structure.

Etymological Roots of Kerala

Kerala has three primary etymological roots:

1. Land of Kera Trees

One of the most fascinating etymologies suggests that Kerala means the land of #8216;Kera#8217; trees, which refers to the abundance of coconut trees in the region. Coconut groves are a distinctive feature of the landscape and contribute to the region#8217;s economy, culture, and identity. This etymology highlights the deep connection between the people and the natural environment of Kerala.

2. Land of Marshes (Cheralam)

Another etymology traces the name #8216;Keralam#8217; back to an older word, #8216;Cheralam,#8217; which means marsh. The prevalence of marshy and muddy land is a characteristic of Kerala, which experiences heavy rainfall from the South-west monsoons. This etymology underscores the historical significance of the wetlands and rivers in shaping the region and its people.

3. Land of the Chera Dynasty

A third etymology is derived from the name of the ancient Chera dynasty that ruled the southwestern coast of India. This Chera dynasty is distinct from the non-venomous yellow snake that is also abundant in Kerala. The mention of the Cheras in historical texts and inscriptions provides insights into the early political and cultural landscape of the region.

Historical References

The earliest reference to Kerala appears in the Maurya Empire in the 3rd century BC, in the form of the term #8216;Keralaputra.#8217; This reference is from rock inscriptions and highlights the recognition of the region by one of the earliest known empires in India. Further literary evidence from Sangam literature reveals that ancient Kerala was known as Chera nadu or Cheralam.

Cheralam was significantly larger than the present-day Kerala, and it even covered parts of Sri Lanka. The region, which was ruled by the Chera dynasty, had a significant impact on the cultural and historical landscape of South India. The etymology of #8216;Cheralam#8217; also provides a clue to the marshy and muddy environment, which was characteristic of the region due to the heavy monsoons.

Malabar: An Ancient Name and Beyond

Entire Kerala was once known as Malabar in ancient times. The term Malabar has different connotations depending on the context. In ancient times, the term Malabar referred to the entire region, and the Malayalam language, spoken by the people in this region, came to be known as Malabar in Spanish and Portuguese. Arabs also referred to the entire population of Kerala as Malbaris, which further underscores the significance of this term in history and culture.

Later, as British influence grew, the term Malabar was used to refer to North Kerala, and it was further divided into North Malabar and South Malabar. This division reflects the administrative and geographical changes that occurred in the region during the colonial era.

Thus, the name Malabar encapsulates a rich cultural and historical legacy that is deeply rooted in the land and people of Kerala. Understanding these names and their etymologies provides a window into the historical and cultural evolution of this fascinating region.