The unique culture of the Malabar region has fascinating tales from history enriched by feats in sports, arts, and education.
Malabar is known for being nice to visitors all along. Little wonder the Arab traders, British administrators, and the Basel Missionaries all felt at home in places like Kozhikode and Thalassery (Vasco da Gama, who arrived in 1498, long before the British, may perhaps have had a different opinion, though).
The significant presence of the British at Thalassery — dating back to the 17th century — has had a long-lasting impact on the region, socially and culturally. Apart from educating the region — the natives were required to serve the ruler — they built the railway, helped the socially backward move upward and taught the locals how to bake cakes and play cricket.
The craze for football in Kozhikode and Malappuram is perhaps unparalleled in the country.
If there is something Malabar loves something as much as the beautiful game, it is music. Not only did the region produce some legendary musicians, it also invented a genre called Mappilapattu.
Here is Malabar Mail, a weekly column by The Hindu 's correspondents that will reflect Malabar’s life and lifestyle.
