Legend has it that Kerala the kingdom of Mahabali was created by lord Parasurama, when he threw his battle axe in to the sea. Isolated from rest of India by the Western Ghats, Kerala is a natural beauty with long coast line, hill stations, and forest with diverse flora and fauna. Kerala is one of the third worlds longest lived, healthiest, gender-equitable and most literate regions. All of this along with its unique culture and traditions make it a special place in the world.
So to all of you,

Mountain and Tea estates view

Kerala ranks highest in India with respect to "social development parameters" such as primary education and healthcare. Kerala was declared the world's first "baby-friendly state" under WHO-UNICEF's Baby Friendly Hospital initiative. The state is known for Ayurveda, a traditional system of , which finds great market in the growing tourist industry now.

Literacy in Kerala, at higher than 90%, and unemployment rate, at higher than 40%, are the highest among Indian states. This is mainly due to the policies of earlier governments, which made these services available free of cost to Keralites who would not otherwise have access to them. Education and early influences of arabs and portugese has also made Kerala one of the most secular states in India. Ironically, Kerala is also noted as the state with the highest rate in India.

Kerala has an ancient solar calendar called as the Malayalam calendar which is used by various communities only for religious functions. Kerala has its own form of Martial arts, Kalaripayattu. Theyyam is the most outstanding ritual art of Northern part of Kerala known as North Malabar. Poorakkali is another popular ritual art in North Malabar.

Onam associated with the legend of Mahabali is declared the State festival, but Keralites celebrate many other religious and secular festivals.