Kartha

It was conferred by the Rajas to powerful families, they are Desavazhi (regional rulers) or Naduvazhi (feudal chieftains and landlords) status.

During the Madras Census of 1901, the title of Kartha was returned by the Balijas who claimed to be the descendants of the Nayak kings of Madura and Tanjore.

[10] As per historical records, such as the 'International Congress on Kerala Studies', it states that Territorial rulers titled Kaimal and Kartha ran parallel administrative systems by even challenging Kings( Maha Raja) [11] The Karthas, as a community, ruled regional principalities and fiefdoms, served in the royal armies or worked as Tax Collectors for the kings.

Those who belong to the old Royal families are styled Rāja or Tamburān (lord), their ladies Tamburāttis, and their houses Kōvilagams or palaces.

[9] Kartha chieftains were also bestowed with extraordinary rights and authorities by the erstwhile kings and they held a special status within the royal court.