The Seen and the Unseen - hosted by Amit Varma Ep 156: Kerala and the Ivory Throne
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Jan 20, 2020 
Historian Manu Pillai joins Amit Varma to discuss Kerala's history, including its matrilineal system empowering women, extreme casteism, and badass queens. They explore the assimilative nature of Kerala, the brutal tactics of Martin Varma, effects of British influence on Indian culture, and the complex life of painter Raja Ravi Varma. The podcast also covers the fearless leadership of a Maharaja, the downfall of a queen, and the striking down of the matrilineal system.
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Kerala's Unique Culture
- Kerala's geography facilitated trade with other countries more easily than with other parts of India.
- This led to a unique culture, blending foreign influences with local traditions.
Caste System in Kerala
- Swami Vivekananda called Kerala the "lunatic asylum of India" due to its extreme caste system.
- Manu Pillai explains how the caste system in Kerala was based on unapproachability and intricate rules.
Caste and Meal Times
- Manu Pillai highlights the intricacies of the Kerala caste system.
- One's position could be determined by their location during meal times, showcasing the rigid social hierarchy.