Cultural Archive

Paliya Ulsavam is the annual festival of the Paliyar community in Kerala, held every April. Rooted in forest traditions and ancestral worship, the festival today blends temple rituals with cultural expressions like Kummi-adi and Paliya Nritham. From the sacred pilgrimage to Kalluveriyar to votive offerings such as Mulapayaru, Maavilakku, and Theechatti, the celebration reflects the community’s deep faith, resilience, and collective identity.

Among the various cultural celebrations of the Mannan community, Pongal stands out as a significant and spiritually rooted annual...

Paliya Nritham, a dance form practiced by the Paliya community in Kerala in their settlement at Kumali, is an example on how the...

Each year, the Mannan tribal community gathers for Meenoottu —a sacred river-based ritual that seeks protection from disease and...

Among the Mannan tribal community of Kerala , a rich cultural tradition continues to beat to the rhythms of drums and the chants of...

In Kerala, Mannan community comes together each year to celebrate Kalaavoottu  — also known as Kalaayoottu  — a vibrant festival that...

May 11, 2025 — Mazhuvadi, Kanjikuzhi In the serene mountain valley of Mazhuvadi, Idukki district, a remarkable gathering unfolded on 11th...

Among the many rich and diverse traditions of Mannan community of Kerala, Payayil Iruthal (also Payel Iruthal) stands out as a deeply...

Balikkala is a ritual art, practiced by the Malayar community of northern Kerala. Performed for the health and well-being of women, it has g

VV Suresh Kumar, a skilled artisan from Kerala, is a master craftsman renowned for his expertise in creating traditional craft boxes like...