[1] They are considered to be Malayali Brahmins and to have originated when a section of the Nambudiris was degraded.
The nambidi's also had great economic and Societic importance and have the same grade of Nambudiris in the Society.
Nambidis are divided into two: the ones who wear the sacred thread and perform the Upanayanam and the ones who do not.
The former are Nambudiris who were degraded to the Lower status since their ancestors had committed a heinous act by murdering a ruler of Kerala.
On their return the other Nambudiris welcomed them but they refused to seat themselves with the other Brahmins owing to the sin they committed and instead sat on the steps of the hall.