Consider the following statements regarding the historic Mamankam festival held in medieval Kerala: 1. It was a grand decennial assembly convened on the banks of the Bharathappuzha at Thirunavaya under the ritual presidency of the Zamorin of Calicut. 2. Suicidal squads known as Chaverukal, dispatched by the Valluvanad chieftains, launched ritual attacks during the festival to avenge the usurpation of the royal ceremonial right.

💡 Solution & Explanation

Both statements are correct. The Mamankam festival was a major political and commercial congregation held every twelve years at Thirunavaya, symbolizing suzerainty over Malabar. The Valluvanad Nair warriors, known as Chavers, participated in suicidal combat attempts against the Zamorin to regain their lost ancestral privilege of presiding over the ceremony. The event also functioned as an international trade fair attracting merchants from across the Indian Ocean.