The
people of Kerala are the most simple people and very down to earth. They
like to live in their own world of simplicity and originality. They are
known as "keralites", since they are natives of Kerala. Kerala
people are very fiercely protective about their religion and ancient
practices. They are proud of their culture and will go to any lengths to
preserve them. The lifestyle of Kerala people is uncomplicated and they
seem happy and content with simple pleasures of life.The people of Kerala speak Malayalam. These people emphasize much on education and make it a point that the younger generation knows the religious teachings of their culture. Kerala was the only state in India that had 100% literacy rate at one point of time. Unfortunately, they have not been able to maintain it and the literacy rate has reduced a bit. Yet, most people are conversant in English and make it a point that their kids receive education at least till the primary level.
The people of Kerala dress very ordinarily. They do not believe in showing off. They are content with the quality of life. They seek mental satisfaction more than materialistic pleasures. The women dress up in a traditional dress called Sari, which requires draping skillfully a six-meter long cloth on oneself. The men mostly wear cotton "lungi" (a sarong like dress) with a towel on top. The men in cities wear pants and shirts. The younger generation follows fashion and wears anything from jeans to salwar kameez.
