Ezhava
The origin of the word Ezhava is disputed. According to one theory, Ezhava means people of Ezham. Ezham (Eelam) is an ancient Tamil name for Sri Lanka. This theory is supported by Vadakkan Paattu (Northern Ballads). The ballads tell the tale of a legendary Thiyya warrior Aaromal Chekavar, who according to legend was the descendant of one of the seven warriors sent to Kerala by the Sri Lankan king.
The debate about origins is not conclusive.
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