Achan (title)
Achan is a title of nobility in Kerala, India. The title was used by Nair feudal lords and were awarded to those Nairs who excelled in martial arts by the Kings of Malabar. The Pillais of Travancore are addressed as "Pillai Achan" by commoners. Famous Achans included the Mangat Achan of Calicut who was the by tradition the Prime Minister of the Zamorin and the Paliath Achan, Prime Minister of Cochin. The ruling house of Palghat also bore the title Achan.
