Namboodiri Brahmins: an analysis of a traditional elite in Kerala

Mencher, Joan P.

article

Namboodiri Brahmins: an analysis of a traditional elite in Kerala

Journal of Asian and African studies • 1 (3) • Published In 1966 • Pages: 183-196

By: Mencher, Joan P..

Abstract
The patrilineal Namboodiri Brahmins historically constituted a wealthy, aristocratic, landed caste group of high ritual and secular rank. The main principles of social organization that helped them stay at the apex of the caste hierarchy were the custom of ultimogeniture, and the complex ties senior family members pragmatically established with lower-ranking matrilineal castes. These principles had complementary outcomes: while the youngest sons of each family continued to be bearers of a class of elite families, their landless and, strictly speaking, "unmarried" siblings moved one step down the hierarchy to join matrilineally organized Nayar families. However, with the advent of colonialism the Namboodiri elite were at a disadvantage responding to the changes that followed because they lacked the flexibility to leave the land for cities to attend schools or work at salaried jobs.

Castes

Status, role, and prestige

Accumulation of wealth

Inheritance

Inter-community relations

Regulation of marriage

Prophets and ascetics