Kaimal

Kaimal was a title of nobility conferred on the Nairs of Kerala by the rulers of Cochin and Travancore. The term Kaimal is derived from Kai which in Malayalam means hand, signifying power. Earlier Kaimals were either recognised chieftains, such as the Kaimal of Vaikattillam,Kaimal of Niranampetti,the Anchu or five Kaimals of Cochin, Thachudaya Kaimal of Irinjalakuda Temple etc. Others were in charge of the treasury, which according to custom, could not be seen even by the kings except in their presence. The counsel of the Kaimals was sought in all matters by their King. The constant warfare between Kodassery Karthavu with the Koratty Kaimal had created instability in the southern Thrissur District in the Portuguese period in the 16th century.