The name Kerala, renowned for its lush greenery and vibrant culture, holds a fascinating history. Delve into the theories and historical evidence that trace the etymology of this enchanting region.
Introduction to Kerala
Everywhere in Kerala, you will find kera trees, which means coconut. This abundance of coconut trees is a significant part of the state's identity. The name 'Kerala' has a rich history that intertwines with the cultural, linguistic, and historical tapestry of the region.
The Portuguese Connection
Originally, the entire region of Kerala was referred to as Malabar by the Portuguese. This can be traced back to a Botanical book written by Itti Achan, a Portuguese botanist, who titled his work 'Horthus Malabaricús' or 'M'abar.
Historical and Linguistic Origins
Several historical and linguistic theories exist regarding the origin of the name Kerala. One theory suggests that the name is derived from the Old Cheras or Cheralam. The Mourian Emporor Asokan used the word "Keralaputras," which developed into "Keralan." In English, the 'C' and 'K' are often interchangeable, leading to variations in the spelling and pronunciation of the name.
Another significant connection is the Kerala-Karnataka border coast, referred to as Malabar. This area was named due to its coastal location that extended beyond the sea. It is subject to in-depth exploration in my book, highlighting how the region's geography and cultural links have shaped its identity.
Folk Etymology and Alternate Theories
A folk etymology suggests that Kerala is derived from the Malayalam word "kera," meaning coconut, and "alam," meaning land, thus translating to 'land of coconuts.' This nickname is used by locals due to the abundance of coconut trees.
Another theory traces the origin to Arab writers who called this place 'Malibar,' 'Manibar,' and 'Munibar.' The term 'Malabar' is reminiscent of 'Malanad,' which means 'the land of hills.' According to William Logan, the word 'Malabar' is a combination of the Malayalam word 'Mala' (hill) and the Persian/Arabic word 'Barr' (country/continent).
Historical Records and Evidence
Kerala's name has been recorded as 'Keralaputras' in Ashoka's edicts from the 3rd century BC and 'Periplus Kerobathros' in 1st century AD by Plini. These historical records provide significant evidence that the original name of the region is Kerala itself.
Malabar, on the other hand, is a name given to the Kerala coast by Middle Eastern traders and travelers, possibly derived from 'Mala' (mountain in Malayalam) and 'Bar' (country in Arabic). The term 'Malabar' was used by Al Baruni in the 11th century and might have existed before that.
In conclusion, the name Kerala reflects a complex interplay of linguistic, cultural, and geographical factors. Whether derived from 'Keralam' (coconut land), 'Malabar' (mountain country), or 'Kerala' (land of coconuts), the name encapsulates the essence of this remarkable region.