Question

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

• A. The people who established power over large areas of land.
• B. The people with whom vested the right to ownership of farmlands.
• C. The traders with the official right to trade in the kingdom of Mahodayapuram.
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is A The people who established power over large areas of land.

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.

Besides farmers, there were many other occupational groups in villages. As agriculture became widespread, large areas of land called Nadu developed. Those who established power over the Nadus came to be known as Naduvazhis.