The country with the most Keralites is India.
Understanding Keralites (Malayalis)
Keralites are individuals who originate from Kerala, a state located on the southwestern coast of India. They are also commonly referred to as Malayalis, a term that denotes speakers of the Malayalam language, which is the official language of Kerala. While a substantial majority of Keralites reside within their home state, a significant portion has migrated to other parts of India and various countries worldwide, establishing thriving diaspora communities.
Global Distribution of Malayalis
Based on available population data, India hosts the overwhelming majority of Malayalis globally. This includes the vast population living within Kerala itself, as well as those residing in other Indian states and union territories, such as Lakshadweep.
Here is a breakdown of the notable Malayali populations:
| Country/Region | Estimated Malayali Population |
|---|---|
| India (Total) | 34,838,819 |
| • Within Kerala | 32,413,213 |
| • Lakshadweep | 54,267 |
| • Rest of India | 2,371,339 |
| United Arab Emirates | 1,014,000 |
| Qatar | 745,000 |
As the figures clearly illustrate, the total Malayali population residing in India far exceeds that of any other single country. This confirms India as the nation with the largest number of Keralites. Outside of India, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar are home to the most significant known Malayali diaspora communities.
