Culture in Kerala

Kerala - the land of one of the most prosperous cultures in human history - offers a multi - ethnic outlook to its guests. Kerala has always been a melting pot of various cultures. Being ruled by several dynasties, it adopted different lifestyle patterns and evolved with a unique colourful and vibrant culture.

Varied Community

The citizens of the state are followers of different major religions like Hinduism, Christianity and Islam. Apart from that Sikhism, Buddhism, Judaism and Jainism also have their followings but at a smaller scale. The cosmopolitan culture of the state lets you enjoy the conventional festivals like Onam and Vishu. Besides this, other prominent Indian festivals like Holi, Diwali, Easter, Christmas, Id-ul-Fitr and Milad-e-Sherif are also celebrated with verve and fervour.

The Keralites, famous for their hospitality, use Malayalam as their local language. However, English is more popular in business and education circles. Generally they savor on Keralite cuisines (normally cooked with a variety of spices and coconut), yet Chinese and North Indian cuisines also seem to be very popular among the people of this state.

Interesting Aspects of the Kaleidoscopic Culture

The broad-based, sophisticated Keralites prefer western clothing to traditional Kerala wear. They are becoming increasingly fashion conscious over the period of time. The people of the state are great patrons of art and literature and foster their love of art through various forms of dances and theatrical exhibitions like Kathakali, Mohiniattam and Kootiyattam. The Keralites are equally passionate and fond of sports, particularly soccer and cricket. The Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium situated in Kochi is one of the largest multi-use stadiums in India. Kerala has a distinctive martial art called Kalaripayattu, based on the antique knowledge of human body. It is supposed to be a crucial and susceptible sport.

All these give an insight of the rich taste and aesthetic sense of the Keralites in recognition with their traditional customs and cultural heritage.