A recent report of the Kerala State Food Commission highlighted significant irregularities in the distribution of ration supplies in Edamalakkudy, which is Kerala's only tribal panchayat and is predominantly inhabited by the Muthuvan tribe.
About the Muthuvan Tribe
The Muthuvan Tribe, also known as Mudugars, is an indigenous tribal community inhabiting the Western Ghats of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
The Muthuvans are known for their deep connection with forests and mountains. Over generations, they have developed extensive traditional knowledge about the ecology of the hills and have learned to coexist harmoniously with wildlife. The community is also renowned for its expertise in traditional medicine. Knowledge of medicinal plants and healing practices is carefully preserved and passed down through generations.
Language
The Muthuvans speak the Muthuvan language, which belongs to the Dravidian language family.
Within the tribe, there are two major groups that speak slightly different dialects. These groups identify themselves as Malayalam Muthuvan and Pandi Muthuvan, reflecting linguistic and regional variations within the community.
Social Organization
The social structure of the Muthuvan tribe is highly organized and based on a traditional clan system.
The community is divided into six clans known as “Koottams.” Each koottam is further divided into smaller sub-clans. These clan divisions play an important role in regulating marriage alliances, maintaining social status, and preserving ancestral lineage.
The Muthuvans follow the practice of community endogamy, which means marriage takes place within the tribe. At the same time, they practice clan exogamy, requiring individuals to marry outside their own clan.
One of the most distinctive features of Muthuvan society is the “Kani System” of governance. Under this traditional system, the affairs of the community are managed by a council of elders headed by a leader known as the Kani.
Religion and Beliefs
The Muthuvans traditionally practice animism and spirit worship. They believe in the presence of spiritual forces in nature and worship various forest deities.
Occupation and Livelihood
Agriculture remains the primary occupation of the Muthuvan tribe. Their traditional farming practice is known as Virippukrishi, a form of shifting cultivation that has been followed for generations.
The crops cultivated by the community are mainly intended for self-consumption rather than commercial sale. This reflects their subsistence-based economy and self-reliant way of life.
The major crops grown by the Muthuvans include Ragi (Little Millet), Maize, Thina (Italian Millet), Varagu, Chama Rice, Tomato, Carrot, Sweet Potato, Potato, Cheeni Vala, Toppi, and Mocha. These crops form an essential part of their diet and contribute to their food security.
Key Features of the Muthuvan Tribe
The Muthuvan tribe is known for its strong clan-based social structure, traditional Kani governance system, rich knowledge of medicinal plants, and harmonious coexistence with forests and wildlife. Their unique cultural practices, indigenous knowledge systems, and sustainable lifestyle make them one of the most significant tribal communities of the Western Ghats region