Thandan

Thandan is a caste found in South India. The name is also used as a synonym for another distinct caste group.[1][2]

This article is about the Thandan caste. For the synonym for some members of the Ezhava caste, see Ezhava.

Status

The Thandan have traditionally been occupied as climbers of coconut and palmyra palm trees in south and central Kerala, being mainly concentrated in Travancore district. They harvest coconuts and the women plait pal leaves, makes ropes and are also engaged as agricultural labourers. They are a landless group and were once labourers attached to the landed gentry.

They are designated as a Other Backward Classes by the Government of Kerala. Anthropological studies conducted by the Kerala Institute of Research, Training and Development Studies[2] revealed that majority of them were Kudikidappukar (tenants) in the past. There were several landlords exisited in the community ancient times. Moving forward they have started business during late 90's and migrated to different parts of the world for education and Job and business purposes. Many people from the community have shined in the liquor and real estate business.

Culture

The Thandan practise shashtam pattu, an art form in which they sing songs praising Ayyappa of Sabarimala at temples for a week or more. They also practise thattikoothu, which is a folk dance presented during pooram festival in Thrissur.

Achaarakallyanam is a betrothal ceremony of the Thandan community. The relatives of the bridegroom visit the bride's residence to fix an auspicious date and time of marriage.

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References
  1. Kusuman, K. K. "Their many dimensions". Newindpress.com. Archived from the original on 29 September 2007.
  2. "Standing Committee on Social Justice and Empowerment (2006-2007)" (PDF). p. 13.
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