Double descent system and social organisation of Thachanadan Mooppan tribe of Kerala
Authors :Indu.V. Menon
Abstract
A majority of tribes in the Nilgiri- Wayanad region are matrilineal. The main matrilineal tribes are Kurichiya, Mullukkuruma, Rawla, Kadar, ThachanadanMooppen, Kunduvadiyan, Kadar. This paper analyses the social organization of the Thachanadan tribe and its peculiarities. Although the tribe is matrilinear overtly, it became clear in the course of research that it has a social organization of double descent. Aspects such as phratery, clan, lineage, succession and inheritance are transmitted from the mother's side to the children, and territoriality is transmitted from the paternal side to the offspring, indicating a double descent system. Through the acquisition of the territory named Padi from the father, the offspring also follow and inherit the respective territorial tribal deities. In earlier times, Thachanadan Mooppen were subject to slavery or bondage, which was practiced according to the Padi. The territory of Padiwould determine the Janmi or landlord having authority over even the children in the Padi. There was patrilocal residence among the Thachanadan community. In summary, the community was matrilineal through blood relationship and patrilineal on geographical lines and worship of particular divinities.
Key Words -Unilineal, Double descent, Bilateral, Bilineal, Matrilineal, Patrilineal
