Nalavar (Tamil: நளவர், romanized: Naḷavar) is a Tamil caste found in Sri Lanka. They were traditionally occupied in palm tree climbing and toddy tapping.[1]
According to a folk etymology is the name Nalavar a corrupted form of Naluvinavar (those who decamped), which they gained after withdrawing from a battle field.[2] Another theory suggest the name is derived from Nalua meaning to climb, in reference to their traditional occupation.[3]
It has also been proposed that the name is derived from Naravar (from Naravu, ancient Tamil term for toddy).[4]
According to Yalpana Vaipava Malai were the Nalavars originally called Nambis who originally Vanniar chieftains and served as bowmen.[5] A former subdivision among them were known as Kottai Vayil Nalavar i.e. "Nalavars in service of the fort".[4]
Under the Dutch Ceylon was the Thesavalamai law codified.[6] This law allowed landlords to have slaves, and the Nalavars were also employed as agriculture labors, and were classified along with the Pallar under the term Adimai (slave).[7][8]
The badge and cattle brand mark of the Nalavars is the bow and arrow.[9] The Nalavar along with the Pallar worship Annamar, their caste deity.[10]
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