Tamil Brahmin community is believed to have migrated to Kochi approximately three centuries back. The mostly live in gated communities called the Agraharas. In one of those Agraharas, named Karanthar Palayam there are approximately 450 families who have their roots in Kallidaikurichi near Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu. Karanthar Palyam in fact is believed to be the name of a community of Brahmin traders who originated from Kalidaikurichi. Kayamkulam, a place approximately 100 kilometers south of Kochi, is where they initially settled and the King of Kochi who was on a visit of kaayamkulam invited them to settle in Kochi. So, despite being a class of priests, it was trade and business that brought them into Kochi like most of the other communities. The residents of Karanthar Palayam stil holds on to their Tamil Brahmin identities especially in their food and dressing. It was this community that played a significant role in popularizing Carnatic Music in Mattancherry and some of the members have made tremendous contributions that has enriched this tradition of music.
