Panicker

Panicker was an honorary title conferred by the King of Travancore in Kerala to distinguished individuals.

This title was given to prominent Nair, Saint Thomas Christians, Kaniyars and Ezhavas.

[3] In the 12th century towards the end of Perumal era, the present state of Kerala was divided into small autonomous provinces called Nadus and ruled by its Kings.

The Portuguese traveller Duarte Barbosa said that "They are the skillful men who teach this art Kalarippayattu, and they are called the Panickers: these are the captains in war.

Henceforth the military authority Meloot Varmas were acknowledged as Panickers (warrior) and upheld the kingdom's shield and administration.