Channar

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Ezhava/Channar Musicians from the 19th century: Performing the traditional "Villadichaampattu"

Channar or Channan was a surname used in Kerala and Tamil Nadu till early 20th century. In Kerala, it was used by members of the Ezhava community and concentrated around Kollam and Allappuzha Districts. In Malayalam, channar means Headman, showing their transcendency in the society^{[1] [2]}. Channar was the headman of the village and since they followed Matrilinear system of inheritance, the office were hereditary from uncle to nephews.^[3] They were warriors who where engaged in Kalarippayattu. They even referred in many books written during Sangam period. Even though all Channars were warriors^{[citation needed]}, prior to that some of them were also related to palmyra tree (were coconut growers), but became major traders with the British East India company and other colonists^{[citation needed]}. Some of them even acquired positions as local chiefs from the ruler. The name Olivan Channar (Ezhavan Channar) is found among those trading with the British (Letters to Fort St. George, Vol. XII, No. 89 dated 26 August 1719). Link[1] This Headmen, channar or channan,were also responsible for conducting marriages and presides at all important ceremonies, for which he receives presents of Tobocco etc. ^[4]

Among them, Alummoottill channars were part of Kayamkulam Army and were Kalari trainers.[2] Other famous channars include Chempakappaly channars, Channars of Mayyanad Link [3], Kottoor Pothinikkal Channars of Kaviyoor etc. The female members are called Channaattis. These surnames are not common any more in Kerala.

In Tamil Nadu those who engaged in toddy tapping called Channars. They are also engaged in Arrack brewing. They also known as Nadars which derived from the old name of Shannars. They are also found in Thiruvanathapuram district of Kerala.

[edit] External links

• India today News 2003 Feature 1[4]
• India today News 2003 Feature 2 [5]
• Alummoottill Website - Link [6]
• Kerala History [7]

[edit] References

1. ^ Social Movements and Social Transformation: A Study of Two Backward Classes. Retrieved on 2008-04-01.
2. ^ Communal Road to a Secular Kerala Page 30. George Mathew. (Concept Pub. Co ,1989. Retrieved on 2008-04-01.
3. ^ Native Life in Travancore. Samuel Mateer. W.H. Allen & co.,1983. Retrieved on 2008-04-01.
4. ^ Native Life in Travancore. Samuel Mateer. W.H. Allen & co.,1983. Retrieved on 2008-04-01.

[edit] See also

• Ezhava caste
• Chekavar Another Ezhava warrior sect from kerala
• Kuruppanmar An Ezhava sect from kerala associated with Bhadrakali temples