Kurup (Nair caste)
| Regions with significant populations | |
|---|---|
| Kerala | |
| Languages | |
| Malayalam, Sanskrit | |
| Religion | |
| Hinduism (Kshatriya) | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| Nair Pillai, Madampi, Malayali Brahmin |
Kurup or Nair Kurup is a title of nobility used by Nairs in Kerala, India. They were experts in Kalaripayattu and had their own Nair armies in many parts of Kerala. Many of them were powerful warlords who also served as warriors and army generals. Additionally, a segment of the Nair Kurup caste belonged to the Jenminar (feudal chieftains) and Naduvazhi (regional rulers) in the kingdom of Venadu until the 17th century. The Nair Kurup caste is unrelated to other castes, such as the Ambalavasis or Kalari Panickers.