Kerala

Kerala, located in the southwestern region of India, has a rich and diverse history that spans several centuries. The earliest known human settlements in Kerala date back to the Neolithic era, around 2500 BCE. The region was later ruled by various dynasties and empires, including the Cheras, the Pandyas, and the Cholas. During the colonial period, Kerala came under the control of the Portuguese, the Dutch, and the British. The British established their control over the region in the 18th century and it remained a British colony until India's independence in 1947.

In the 19th century, Kerala saw a significant social and cultural reformation led by leaders such as Sree Narayana Guru and Ayyankali. These leaders advocated for the rights and education of the lower castes and worked towards the eradication of caste discrimination. Kerala also has a rich tradition of art, culture, and literature that has been shaped by its diverse history. The state is known for its traditional dance forms such as Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, and its rich and diverse cuisine. Overall, Kerala's history is a complex and diverse tapestry of social, cultural, and political developments that have shaped the region over the centuries.

Here are some facts to remember about Kerala:

• Kerala located on the Malabar Coast at the south-west region of India.

• The State was formed on 1 November 1956.Total area of the state is 38,863 square km.

• It share its boundary with Tamil Nadu to the east and south, Karnataka to the north and north east and the Lakshadweep Sea to the west.

• The population of the state is 3.3 cores as per the 2011 census.

• Total district in the state is 14 districts.

• Malayalam is the official language of the state.

• Thiruvananthapuram is the state capital city of Kerala while other major cities include Kochi, Kozhikode, Kollam, Kottayam, Alappuzha, Kannur,Thrissur.

• It is a state with the lowest positive population growth rate in India with 3.44 % and has a density of 860 people per square km.

• The state also has the highest literacy rate 95.5% and the highest life expectancy with 77 years.

• The total assembly constituencies are 140 and total Lok Sabha constituencies are 20.

• The economy of the state mainly depends on Agricultural and Tourism. Main tourist attraction places are Kovalam, Varkala, Periyar Tiger Reserve, Munnar, Wayanad, Alleppey, Kumarakom. Kerala tourism mainly popular for Natural Beauty, Ayurveda Treatment, Ayurvedic Massage, Backwater cruises etc.

• Periyar is the main river of Kerala.

• Onam is the main festival of Kerala which is mainly a harvest festival. Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Koodiyattom, Thullal and Krishnanattam are the dances originated and developed in Kerala.


State Symbols of Kerala
Category English Term
Animal Indian elephant
Bird Great hornbill
Flower Kanikonna
Tree Coconut tree
Fruit Jackfruit