Question

Prepare a note on the administrative system of ​Medieval Kerala.

Answer 1

Instructions:

1. Talk about the system during the Perumal rule.
2. Talk about the independence of Nadua and the system after the end of Perumal rule.
3. Describe the changes during the rule of Tipu Sultan and in the colonial period in Kerala.

Solution:

The period between the 8th and the 18th century is considered as the medieval period of Kerala.

• The beginning of the medieval period was marked by the centralization of all the Nadus under the Perumals. The Perumals assigned representatives known as Koyiladhikarikal. They were assisted by a council of Brahmins known as Naluthali. The rulers levied taxes on the Nadus, Nagaras, Brahmin gramas and the temples, etc. ​
• By the 12th century CE, the Nadus became independent and formed positions of power that came to be known as Naduvazhi Swaroopams.​
• By the late 18th century, the Sultans of Mysore conquered parts of Kerala and it was divided into Malabar, Kochi, and Travancore. Eventually, the East India Company defeated Tipu Sultan and Kerala came under British rule. The beginning of the Company rule marked the end of the Naduvazhi rule in Medieval Kerala.