Koya (Malabar)とは 意味・読み方・使い方

Koyas are a subdivision of Malabar Muslims. They are mostly concentrated in and around the Thekkepuram sector of the city of Kozhikode. They claim their descent from upper caste Hindus of Kerala such as Nairs as well as from the Arabs. During the Zamorin's rule, the Koya of Calicut held a position that was equivalent to that held by the Nair of Calicut. Koyas are also found on the islands of Lakshadweep as well as in other parts of South Malabar. Koyas make up more than half of the population in the Lakshadweep islands.