Menon

Origin & History

Menon is a title and surname used by Nair and Ambalavasi communities of Kerala, derived from the Malayalam 'menavan', possibly meaning 'one who stands before the chief'. It was a hereditary administrative title conferred on Nairs who served as accountants and revenue officials in Kerala's traditional feudal system. Menon families historically managed temple trusts, royal granaries, and village records under the kingdoms of Travancore, Cochin, and Malabar.