Description:
The Chalamanthal are an agrarian caste found in the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala in southern India. They are mainly engaged in farming and are also found in petty trade. They are a Scheduled Caste. The Chalamanthal are believed to be a result of the intermingling of the Vellalar and the Chalar communities. They are known to be a martial caste and are involved in traditional martial arts such as kalaripayattu and kalaripayattu contests. They are also involved in cattle rearing and poultry farming. The Chalamanthal are a endogamous community and are divided into several sub-groups, known as septs. The Chalamanthal are Hindu and follow the Chalukya tradition.
