Introduction / History
The Kerala Muthali (Mudali) belong to various Mudaliar communities found elsewhere in South India. Unlike the Tamil Brahmins settled in various places of Kerala, Muthalis/Mudalis engage with marital relationships with Nairs, Chakravar, Sakravar (Kavathi) and those who are converted to Christianity but retaining Mudaliar identity. Kerala Muthalis still keep their separate identity even though they are a micro-minority caste in Kerala. Due to their social, linguistic and educational backwardness Kerala, Tamilnadu and Pondicherry states have categorized them as BCs.

Where are they located?
They are predominantly found in the areas of Trivandrum and Palghat Districts of Kerala and Kanyakumari District of Tamil Nadu.

What are their lives like?
They migrated to these places starting late 17th century onwards for various purposes including agriculture, coconut oil extraction, coir trade and as specialized fighters and reliable spies.

What are their beliefs?
During the British era many families came into the influence of Christianity and became strong supporters and eventually embraced that religion. Gradually after independence and state reorganization, Kerala Muthalis have completely integrated with the Kerala Culture, but still consider Lord Muruga/Subramanya as their primary god of worship while most of the Kerala Hindus are devotees of Lord Vishnu.

What are their needs?
They are socially and educationally in a backward stage in India. The social backwardness can be addressed through education. The educational institutions in India are accessible to the elite class, hence more and more eduational institutions are required for the Kerala Muthali on an urgent basis.