Displayed at the Kerala History Museum, this tableau depicts the legendary heroes of “kalaris” (training schools) such as Aromal Chevakar and Unniarcha who are glorified in numerous ballads. From these Vadakkam Pattukal (Northern Ballads), we know that feudal Kerala was split up into a number of Nadus or principalities.
Chieftains or Naduvazhis earned incomes ranging from customs revenues to property taxes and had a role to play in settlement of disputes and so on. In the 16th and 17th centuries, this particular form of military combat was used to settle disputes between parties that were not satisfactorily settled in the local assemblies.
Here is a question for you.
This quiz has been created by the Heritage Lab and the Kerala History Museum.
Also read:
How a Kerala grandma went from Kalaripayattu exponent to internet star to Padma Shri winner
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!