Most Keralites are Hindus, but there are also large Christian and Islamic, and lesser Jain and Jewish, minorities. The official language is Malayalam . Splendid paintings, especially murals, exhibit distinct local traditions and styles. The land is a flourishing center of the Kathakali dance form. Some principles of the Natya-Shastra are evident in their presentations.
Agriculture is the state's main economic activity.
Plantations of cardamom, cashew nut, coconuts, coffee, ginger, pepper, rubber, and tea account for 40 percent of the total land. Commercial poultry farming is well developed. Most of those employed by larger industrial enterprises are engaged in food and textile processing. The climate is equable and varies little from season to season. Rainfall in many parts of the state exceeds 118 inches.