Ossan

Ossan are one of the Muslim communities of Yemeni origin found scattered and isolated in the state of Kerala, India. They migrated to Kerala during the 17th century along with Thangals who migrated from Yemen for expansion of business. They became traditional Muslim barbers of the Malabar Coast. The pure form of the word 'Ossaan' is Otthaan, derived from the Arabic word Khatthaan meaning an expert practitioner of circumcision. Their ladies were experts in pre- and post-delivery care of pregnant women (midwifery).