Kartha
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Kartha or Karthavu, meaning "Lord" in the Malayalam language, is an aristocratic title. It was conferred by the Rajas to powerful families, they are Desavazhi (regional rulers) or Naduvazhi (feudal chieftains and landlords) status.[1][2]
This article needs additional citations for verification. (April 2020) |
Like other powerful medieval Kerala Clans Like Samantha/Varma, Kaimal, Pillai, Kurup, etc, Kartha's also identify themselves as a Nair subcaste with Kshatriya Varna. All these Nairs rank lies between Nambudiri Brahmins and Nairs.[3][4] [5] [6] [7] [8][1]
Meenachil Kartha among the Karthaavs stand different in their origins as they are descendants of Rajput whereas others are Nagar or Nair origin.[9]