Malayalam Speaking Communities in India Beyond Kerala

Malayalam, a language rich in history and culture, is not confined to the isolated state of Kerala. With a significant presence across various regions and even extending to 192 countries worldwide, Malayalam has carved a niche for itself beyond its home state. This article explores the diverse spread of Malayalam speakers in India and beyond, highlighting their distribution and the reasons behind their dispersion.

The Stranglehold of Communism in Kerala

Kerala, often referred to as the 'God's Own Country,' is currently under the dominance of Communist leaders who have considerable influence over the education system. This political landscape has significantly impacted the state's economy, leading to high unemployment rates. Consequently, many young Malayalam speakers are forced to migrate in search of employment opportunities. This has resulted in the presence of Malayalam-speaking communities in major cities and states across India.

Malayalam in Other Indian States

Malayalam's influence extends beyond Kerala's borders, being widely spoken in several regions across India. Apart from Kerala, it is particularly prevalent in Gudalur taluk of the Nilgiris district, parts of Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu, and Coorg. In Coorg, the Kodava community, known for their close linguistic affinity to Kodagu Tekku, also speaks Malayalam.

In Mangalore, despite the predominance of Kannada and Tulu languages, Malayalam is spoken by doctors and autorickshaw drivers to better communicate with Kerala patients. Tamil people from Kanyakumari district also speak Malayalam due to historical and geographical connections.

The Malayalam Diaspora in Other Countries

Beyond the Indian subcontinent, Malayalam brings together its speakers in various parts of the world, particularly in the Middle East. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia, Malayalam is widely spoken by migrant workers and their families. It has even spread to such an extent that some Arab masters have taken up the language to communicate effectively with their workers. Malayalam's presence in these countries underscores its global significance.

Conclusion

The widespread presence of Malayalam speakers across India and beyond is a testament to the language's adaptability and the resilience of its speakers. From Coorg and Mangalore to other parts of India, and extending to the Middle East, Malayalam continues to strengthen cultural and linguistic bonds. As the language further expands its reach, it will undoubtedly become an even more integral part of the global linguistic tapestry.