What is chaaver?

Chaaver (also spelled Chaver) refers to suicide squads in the history of Kerala, India. They were primarily associated with the warfare traditions of the regions controlled by the Zamorin (Samoothiri) of Calicut.

Key aspects of the Chaaver tradition include:

• Motivation: Chaavelppada were motivated by a combination of factors, including loyalty to their overlord, a desire for glory and martyrdom, and the belief that dying in service to their ruler would ensure them a place in heaven. The Valluvanad nobles were especially known for their devotion.
• Ritual: The formation of a Chaaver squad often involved elaborate rituals and ceremonies, demonstrating a deep religious significance attached to the act. Before setting out to battle, they often participated in a ceremony called Ankam.
• Purpose: Their primary goal was to assassinate enemy rulers or commanders, thereby disrupting the enemy's strategies and demoralizing their forces.
• Risk: Chaavers were virtually suicide warriors, and death during their missions was considered an honourable end.
• Historical Context: These squads were most prominently employed during prolonged conflicts, such as the Mamankam%20Festival battles, which saw the Zamorin contending for supremacy over the Valluvanad region.