Question

With respect to medieval Kerala, what does the term 'Aladiyars' refer to?

• A. A group of traders.
• B. Titles taken by some of the Perumal rulers.
• C. People who toiled in the soil.
• D. People who established power over Nadus.

Answer 1

The correct option is C People who toiled in the soil.

The present Kodungallur and the surrounding areas were known as Mahodayapuram in those days. The Perumals were also known as Cheras and Cheramans. Some of these rulers adopted the title Kulasekara. Most regions in present Kerala were under the rule of the Perumals.
The socio-economic features of the region during the reign of the Perumals were as follows:

• Agriculture flourished in areas close to water resources.
• Brahmins established their power in agricultural villages.
• Temples developed as centres of power.
• The ownership of farmlands was vested with the Brahmins.
• Aaladiyars were the people who toiled in the soil.