Kaimal

Kaimal is an aristocratic title or position granted by various Rajas to powerful Nair families in Kerala.

The word "Kaimal" originated from "Kai," meaning "the hand," signifying power in medieval Kerala.

Kaimals are considered one of the highest castes in South India, along with Samantha Varmas, Karthavs, Thirumalpad, Pillais, Kurups, Nambiars, etc.

Kaimals identify themselves as a Nair Subcaste. There are many references recorded in various historical documents. They are part of the Jenmi and Naduvazhi of Kerala.

Several well known families have borne the title, including the Thachudaya Kaimal, Kaimals of Koratti, Angi and Pondicherry.

Many Kaimal families are also part of Kshatriya Kshema Sabha along with Nair Service Society.

The Dutch in Cochin
On 26 October 1662, the rulers of Kochi successfully defeated the Portuguese who wanted to change the statue of Kochi from that of an ally to that of a vassal. They exploited the rivalry between the Dutch and the Portuguese, and made the Dutch their ally in the war against the Portuguese forces. The Kochi kings fought this battle with the assistance rendered by the Anchi Kaimals.

T. I. Poonen says "It may be mentioned that one of the important causes of Dutch success in Cochin was the loyal co-operation they received from the Anchi Kaimals or five lords of whom the most important was Cheranellular Kartha."

Regional rulers
Some regional rulers such as Koratty Kaimal were served and protected by trained non-Nair warriors as well.

Territorial rulers titled Kaimal and Kartha ran parallel administrative systems by challenging kings. A few of them were very powerful and even Raja sought help from foreign powers such as the Portuguese to conquer them.