Cultural Mapping of the People of the Palani Hills

In 2016, the INTACH Kodaikanal Chapter undertook a systematic and authentic documentation of the intangible heritage and lifestyle of the communities living in the Palani hills. The Palani hills, covering approximately 100 sq km, form part of the Western Ghats in Tamil Nadu and are divided into lower and upper regions. The natural vegetation varies from moist deciduous forests in the lower areas to high-altitude shola forests in the upper hills. The communities inhabiting these forests have adapted to their environment and continuously evolved to respond to the changing landscapes.

The report, authored and edited by Nishitha Vasanth and Priyashri Mani, focused on exploring the historical origins, evolution, livelihood strategies, and traditional practices of the indigenous communities in the Palani hills. These communities include the Paliyans, Puliyans, Mannadiars, Arunthatiyars, Aasaris, Telugu Chettis, Primali Kallars, and Sri Lankan repatriates. Additionally, the report briefly discusses other groups such as the Mudaliyars, Kannadiars, Muslims, Indian Christians, and Kannada Chettis.

These communities have historically engaged in diverse occupations. For example, the Paliyans are traditionally hunters and gatherers of forest produce, and also practice agriculture. The Puliyans primarily work as wage labourers, while the Aasaris specialize in carpentry and masonry. The Chettis, on the other hand, are traditionally businessmen and small traders. While Tamil is the most widely spoken language, many also speak Telugu and Kannada. The folklores associated with these communities are rich and captivating, with one popular origin story claiming that the Paliyans, Puliyans, Mannadiars, and Aasaris are brothers born of the same mother.

Nora Mitchell notes that the earliest inhabitants of the Palani Hills were the ‘dolmen-builders,’ as suggested by the artifacts they left behind, though their identity remains unknown. Prior to 1300 C.E., the Paliyans and Puliyans, living in small bands, were considered the original inhabitants of the hills. Between 1300 and 1800 C.E., the Mannadiars, Aasaris, and Arunthatiyars migrated to the region, and large Poligar estates were established at the foothills. From 1800 onwards, colonial interventions introduced coffee plantations, Eucalyptus, fruit orchards, and wattle plants to the hills. This period also witnessed a second wave of migration with the arrival of Chettiars and Muslims. The Primalai Kallars moved to the hills due to colonial unrest. Post-independence, the Indian government undertook large-scale planting of exotic species, and by the mid-1970s, coupes for logging and processing these species were set up. Sri Lankan Tamils formed a significant part of the workforce in these coupes.

Even today, the plantation economy forms the backbone of the villages in the lower Palani hills. The landscape and its inhabitants have undergone significant changes, yet each community has adapted in its own way. For example, while the Paliyans have largely remained withdrawn, the Chettis seized the opportunity to expand their trading activities. In contrast, the Arunthatiyars and Sri Lankan repatriates have found themselves working as bonded labourers in exploitative conditions. As of 2016, more than 15 communities reside in the Palani hills. The Paliyans, as the original inhabitants, maintain a stronger connection to the area compared to newer arrivals, like the Sri Lankan repatriates, who have only been present for about 40 years. The caste system is intricately woven into the social landscape and continues to influence the complex relationships among these communities.

The data for this study was collected over eight months through visits to 60 villages. Personal interviews with community members proved valuable for gathering evidence, with some interviews being audio recorded. Whenever possible, video and photographic documentation were also completed. Additional stakeholders interviewed included members of Sacred Hearts College and Library, representatives from a non-governmental organization, and officials from the forest department. Experts, academics, archaeologists, and epigraphers were consulted for their insights. Satellite mapping facilitated the creation of detailed village maps, and prior literature served as a valuable foundation for addressing various questions explored during the study.

Raising awareness of the unique histories of the communities in the Palani hills is crucial. Such awareness can significantly contribute to protecting the people’s land rights, cultural spaces, performing arts, craft traditions, traditional medicine, and food practices, with support from government agencies and civil society. The project also highlights the need for important restoration projects which must safeguard the historically significant relics in the region.