While some tribes are recognized by their distinct earrings, some others are known as the 'Lords of the Jungle'. From 'vanishing tribes' to cardamom farmers, here are seven major tribes in Kerala:
1. Paniyan
The name ‘Paniya’ means ‘labourer’ in Malayalam. Traditionally the members of the Paniya tribe were slaves to feudal tribes. Today the Paniyans work as daily wage laborers and maidservants. They are found in Kozhikode, Waynad, and Malapuram districts. Paniyans are identified by earrings, known as ‘oolay’ made of coconut palm leaves, lucky red seeds, and beeswax. Paniyans speak a mix of Malayalam, Tamil, and Tulu. This particular dialect is used only among the tribe members. The chief or headman of the tribe is called ‘Chemmikkaren’ who presides over most of the ceremonies and rituals that are conducted. Paniyans are the largest tribe in Kerala.
The women and men of Paniyan are identified by their earrings
2. Kattunayakan
This tribe is primarily seen in Kozhikkode, Kannur, and Waynad districts of Kerala. They are labeled as one of the “Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups”. The word Kattunayakan means “lords of the jungle”, a name given to tribes for their close relations with nature. Kattunayakans are primarily hunters and gatherers and their major source of income comes from honey. Their language is a mix of Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada. Kattunayakans are divided based on the territories they reside in.
A ritual performed by the Kattunayakan community
3. Adiyar
The name ‘Adiyar’ is a derivation of the word ‘adiyan’, a term used to greet feudal lords. Adiyars were known to be slaves who were sold during Valliyurkkavu temple festival in Waynad. Today, the Adiyars are agricultural laborers who work in paddy fields. The tribe is mainly found in Waynad and Kannur districts and speaks a mix of Malayalam and Kannada.
Members of Adiyar community performing
4. Cholanayakans
Known as one of the most “primitive and vanishing tribes in Asia”, Cholanayakans are found in Chungathara forests in Malapuram district. According to Focus on People website, Cholanayakkans are warriors from Mysore, Karnataka. Their occupations include foraging, fishing, and hunting.
An aged member of the Cholanayakan community
5. Kurichiyan
The highest tribe among Adivasis, Kurichiyans are known for their conservative ways. They are one of the tribes in India that strictly follow untouchability even now. They are found in Waynad and in parts of Kozhikode and Kannur. Agriculture is their major source of income. Kurichiyans speak Malayalam fluently, although in a different dialect.
Members of the tribe participating in a ritual
6. Muthuvan
Also known as Mudugar or Muduvan, Muthuvans are found in Idukki and Ernakulam districts in Kerala. There are two types of Muthuvan: Nadan Muthuvan and Pandi Muthuvan. Nadan Muthuvan hails from Adimali in Idukki and speaks Malayalam while Pandi Muthuavan resides in Munnar and speaks Tamil. Muthuvans' main occupation is cardamom and ginger farming. Historically, ‘Muthuvan’ was used to refer to people who carry loads on their back.
The women of Muthuvan tribe
7. Kanikkaran
Settled in Agastyakootam and Mahendragiri ranges of Trivandrum and Kollam districts, members of Kanikkaran tribe are cultivators and collectors. They are also into fishing and hunting. Kanikkaran is one of the largest tribes in Kerala along with Paniyans.
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