A chakara (also Chaakara and in Malayalam ചാകര) is a natural marine phenomenon observed along the Malabar Coast of India, particularly in Kerala, where an extraordinary abundance of fish is brought close to the shore, sometimes even being washed ashore.
The etymology of chakara relates to Malayalam words "Chaavu" and "Kara" meaning die on the shore, symbolising the huge stock of fish that piles up on the coast during these rare events.
Chakara typically occurs during the southwest monsoon season when upwelling—caused by wind-driven movements of the ocean—brings nutrient-rich water from the ocean depths to the surface.
[1] These nutrients promote plankton blooms, creating an abundant food source for fish, leading to their congregation in large numbers near the shore.
The sudden fish catch provides them with unexpected wealth, allowing fishermen to reap significant economic benefits in a short span.