A Comparative Study of Irula, Toda, and Kota Tribes in Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu

Author(s)	Dr. R Madhulaa, Ms. U.S. Manivasaki
Country	India
Abstract	This article offers a comparative overview of the Irula, Toda, and Kota tribes of the Nilgiris, examining their historical roots, settlement patterns, languages, occupations, and cultural practices (Hockings, 1997). The Irulas are portrayed as forest-based foragers and healers, the Todas as pastoralists centred on sacred buffalo herding, and the Kotas as artisan communities known for craft production and social service roles. Differences in religion, marriage systems, kinship, art forms, and food habits highlight the cultural diversity among the groups. The study also discusses the impact of modernization, including land restrictions, education, tourism, and occupational mobility, which have reshaped traditional livelihoods. While Irulas face displacement and poverty, Todas strive to preserve pastoral beliefs, and Kotas experience significant socio-economic progress. Overall, the tribes reflect distinct adaptive strategies shaped by ecology and heritage, emphasizing the need to preserve their unique traditions within a rapidly changing social landscape.
Keywords	Irula, Toda, Kota, Tribes and Nilgiris
Published In	Volume 6, Issue 6, November-December 2025
Published On	2025-11-28
DOI	https://doi.org/10.63363/aijfr.2025.v06i06.2191
Short DOI	https://doi.org/hbdsvc

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