Kerala is a state in southern India known for its tropical climate, beaches, backwaters, mountains, and traditional art forms like Kathakali dance drama. It has a unique history of being one of the few regions in India not directly ruled by the British during colonial times. The state experiences heavy rainfall throughout the year and has a tropical climate due to its proximity to the equator. Kerala is also culturally and religiously diverse, with Hinduism being the largest religion alongside significant Christian and Muslim populations and influences from other faiths in its history.