Malabaricus.

Embark on a journey that explores the complex interplay between Portuguese colonialism and Kerala's Saint Thomas Christian community. Uncover the seismic shifts caused by the Synod of Diamper and the resistance fuelled by the Coonan Cross Oath, while also discovering why the Portuguese had more success with their Inquisition further along the coast in Goa.

Apologies for uploading the show late, I was sick for most of this week.

Step aboard for a journey into Pedro Alvares Cabral's fateful 1500 expedition to Calicut, an odyssey that ignited a decade-long conflict between Portugal and the Zamorin of Calicut. Explore the Machiavellian tactics the Portuguese employed, pitting Indian states against each other, and discover how these moves catapulted Cochin from an underdog city-state to a maritime powerhouse on the Malabar Coast.

In this episode of Malabaricus, we delve into the ground-breaking expedition of Vasco da Gama, from Lisbon to Kerala, India, in 1497. Discover the trials, tribulations, and diplomatic faux pas that marked this voyage, shaping the future of international trade. Learn about the Portuguese navigator's encounters with African sultans, his daring entry into uncharted waters, and how his mission both succeeded and failed in unexpected ways.

In this first episode of the new season of Malabaricus, we delve into one of the pivotal moments in Kerala's history: the arrival of the Portuguese, led by Vasco da Gama, on its shores. Discover the geopolitical climate that set the stage for this monumental voyage, from the fall of Constantinople to the desperate European search for a new spice route. Understand the roles of King Manuel I and his predecessor, King John II, in transforming Portugal's maritime ambitions into reality. This episode sheds light on the economic, political, and cultural tremors that rippled through Kerala and the world, as a result of this adventurous quest for spices, wealth, and power.

New episodes out every Monday, wherever you get your podcasts.

Season 2 of Malabaricus is steering its compass towards the Portuguese era—a transformative period that disrupted the Arab maritime supremacy and sparked a race to establish European hegemony in the Indian subcontinent. Join me on an exploration of the trade, faith, and geopolitics that underpin Portugal's multidimensional legacy in Kerala. From the events that led to Vasco da Gama's historic landing to the enduring influence of Portuguese architecture and cuisine, this season promises to be a fascinating voyage through time.

New episodes out every Monday. Subscribe now, wherever you get your podcasts.

In the final episode of this season of Malabaricus, we delve deep into the rich tapestry of Malayalam to uncover Arabic influences that span from the language we speak to the laws we follow and the food we savour. From the etymology of 'bathaka' to the legal lexicon of 'vakeel' and 'adalat', and from the origins of the chatti pathiri to the delectable aleesa, we go on a fascinating journey that celebrates the enduring legacy of the Arabs in Kerala's cultural fabric.

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In this episode, we delve into the intricate relationships between Muslim merchants and the rulers of Kerala. Uncover how the Zamorin of Calicut ascended to power with the financial and military support of Muslim traders, all aimed at sustaining their mutual stranglehold on the spice trade. From tax collection by the Shah Bandar at the ports of Calicut and Kollam to the naval leadership of the Kunjali Marakkars, discover the alliances that have deeply influenced Kerala's maritime history.

In this episode, journey across time and tides to explore the fascinating interplay between Kerala's vibrant ports and the Arab world. Uncover the allure of 'black gold'—pepper—that once captivated traders and empires alike. Learn about the uru or the patemar, traditional boats that graced these waters, and the pivotal role they, along with the ports, have played in weaving the multicultural fabric of Kerala.

In this episode, we journey back to the time of the Chera Dynasty to explore the confluence of trade, faith, and culture between Kerala and the Arab world. As we delve into the mystical story of Cheraman Perumal's conversion and the historic trading bonds with Arab merchants—who held a monopoly over the Indian Ocean spice trade—we unearth how these relationships cemented their place in society. But the Arabs didn't just trade spices; their dhows also brought in faith, culture, and even cuisine.

How did a small strip of land on the southwestern coast of India become a melting pot of cultures, religions, and traditions? How did traders and explorers from distant lands shape its history, its society, and even its very soul? Why are these external influences so deeply interwoven into Kerala's identity, and why is this complex tapestry still not fully understood or appreciated?

Welcome to Malabaricus - a podcast that looks at the storied history of Kerala, through external colonial and trading influences. In the first season, we will be exploring the Arabs influence and the introduction of Islam to the state.

New episodes available every Monday.