Kerala is a state located on the southwestern coast of India. It is known for its unique culture, lush landscapes, and high social development indices.
– Capital: Thiruvananthapuram (also known as Trivandrum)
– Major Cities: Kochi (Cochin), Kozhikode (Calicut), Kollam, Thrissur
– Population: Approximately 35 million (as of recent estimates)
– Language: Malayalam is the official language. English is also widely spoken and understood.
Religion: Predominantly Hindu, with significant Muslim and Christian communities.
– Agriculture: Major crops include coconut, tea, coffee, rubber, and spices like cardamom and black pepper.
Traditional Arts: Kerala is renowned for its classical dance forms such as Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, as well as its music and traditional martial art, Kalaripayattu.
– Fisheries: Fishing is an important part of the state's economy.
– Remittances: A significant portion of Kerala's income comes from remittances sent by Keralites working abroad, particularly in the Middle East.
Kerala's unique combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and high social development makes it a distinctive state in India.
Kerala has a history of alternating between coalitions led by the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the Indian National Congress.
Cuisine: Kerala cuisine is known for its use of coconut, rice, seafood, and spices. Popular dishes include appam, puttu, and fish curry.
Major festivals include Onam, Vishu, Thrissur Pooram, and various temple festivals.