Alar is a tribal community settled in the regions of
Palakkad District,
Kerala. They are also known by different names such as Chathans and Chatans. The Alar and
Malayalam are the two languages spoken by them.
Alars perform the Chatthankali, a dance form prevalent in many areas of Ponnani and Tirur in Malappuram District. The dance is performed in the attire of a village deity, with the accompaniment of percussion instruments.