Question

Why was Medieval Kerala considered a hierarchical society?

• A. Land was cultivated by middlemen (Ooralar).
• B. Naduvazhis were at the top of the power hierarchy.
• C. The Brahmins owned farm lands.
• D. The farmers were at the bottom of the ladder.

Answer 1

Answer: (B), (C), (D)

The correct options are
B Naduvazhis were at the top of the power hierarchy.
C The Brahmins owned farm lands.
D The farmers were at the bottom of the ladder.

Medieval Kerala had a hierarchical society because the Naduvahis and Brahmins were at the top of the ladder followed by Ooralars and Karalars. The Naduvazhis and Brahmins owned farm lands which was cultivated by middlemen known as Karalar. They were at the bottom of the ladder and were paid in kind. Ooralars were owners of devasam land which controlled the temples.