Malayalam Symbols (Chihnangal)
We’ve just published a new video on Malayalam symbols (chihnangal / ചിഹ്നങ്ങൾ). These include the marks and modifiers that appear above, below, or next to letters to change their sound.
What You’ll Learn
- The full set of Malayalam vowel symbols (സ്വര ചിഹ്നങ്ങൾ / swara chihnangal)
- How to combine vowel symbols with consonants
- The use of consonant symbols (വ്യഞ്ജന ചിഹ്നങ്ങൾ / vyanjana chihnangal) - യ, ര, ല, വ
- How to combine vowel consonants with consonants (for യ, ര, ല, വ)
Vowel Symbols in Malayalam
- Each vowel has a dependent form (matra) used with consonants
- Examples:
- ക + ◌ാ = കാ (kaa)
- ക + ◌ി = കി (ki)
- ക + ◌ു = കു (ku)
Consonant Symbols in Malayalam
- Consonant symbols for (യ, ര, ല, വ) modify other consonant sounds
- Important ones include:
- Examples:
- ക + യ = ക്യ (kya)
- ക + ര = ക്ര (kra)
- ക + ല = ക്ല (kla)
- ക + വ = ക്വ (kwa)
Why Symbols Matter
- Without symbols, Malayalam writing would only show base letters
- Symbols are what transform letters into real words
- Correct usage is essential for accurate reading, writing, and speaking
Team Aashaan