MasteryExams
History • Medieval IndiaHard

What was the primary socio-political significance of the decennial Mamankam festival held at Thirunavaya on the banks of the Bharathappuzha?

A. It marked the coronation ceremony of the supreme Emperor of Vijayanagara.
B. It served as a grand trading assembly and political gathering organized under the patronage of the Zamorins.✓ Correct Answer
C. It was a religious pilgrimage exclusively dedicated to the worship of Buddhist relics.
D. It celebrated the formal treaty signing between European trading companies and local rajas.

💡 Solution & Explanation

The Mamankam festival was a grand decennial trade fair and assembly held at Thirunavaya, serving as a major economic and political event in medieval Malabar. The right to preside over this festival was fiercely contested, with the Zamorins ultimately asserting control over the ritual arena against rival chieftains. Brave warriors known as Chavers launched suicidal attacks during the ceremony to challenge the authority of the presiding ruler.

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