Cultural Archive

In the hills of Wayanad, Kerala, the indigenous Paniya community carries a rhythm that echoes through every milestone of their life. At the center of this musical and cultural heritage is Thudi, a traditional percussion instrument that serves as far more than just a musical tool. It is the rhythmic pulse connecting the Paniya people to their land, ancestors, and spirit world. WATCH NOW: Thudi: A Percussion Instrument of the Paniya Community The Heartbeat of Life’s Milestones

Paliya Nritham, a dance form practiced by the Paliya community in Kerala in their settlement at Kumali, is an example on how the community builds livelihood by upholding their cultural practice and identity. Tucked away from the hectic tourist spots of Thekkady, Vellayankaani Paliya Parambaragatha Nritham, a team of 20 + enthusiastic individuals from Paliyakudi, Kumily practices their dance form of Paliya Nritham to their set of songs with various traditional instruments. He

Among the Mannan tribal community of Kerala, a rich cultural tradition continues to beat to the rhythms of drums and the chants of ancient tales. This is Mannan Koothu, a traditional dance-drama that weaves storytelling, music, and ritual into a unique form of cultural expression. At its heart lies the retelling of the legendary Kannaki - Kovalan saga, a story rooted in Tamil Sangam literature but uniquely adapted by the Mannan people into their own version of the epic. WATCH

‘Koothu Kondakari’ is a traditional composition of the Irular community featuring the National award-winning singer Nanjiyamma along with...

Umesh PK, an award-winning artist from the Malavettuvar community in Kerala, shares his insights with ARPO regarding his community's...