Governance System
The system of governance in Kovilmala is a unique democratic-monarchy in which a king is elected by the people to rule. The dynastic succession follows the matrilineal system of inheritance, with properties being inherited by the nephew.
The administration of the Mannan community is held by Raja Mannan (King of Mannans), who holds the responsibility to take care of the other 42 Kudis (settlements) spread over various parts of Idukki district.
The Council of Kanis
The king has a council of 9 ministers named Kanis (community leaders) who assist him to settle the disputes regarding marriage, divorce, internal and external affairs.
Annual meetings are held every year for the leaders who represent various kudis. These Kanis are also responsible for electing a new king after the death of any king.
Mannankoothu - The Traditional Art Form
The Mannan community has a unique ritual art form called Mannankoothu, which tells the story of Kovilan and Kannagi from the Silapathikaram epic. This traditional performance art is an integral part of their cultural identity.
Kalavoottu Festival
Today, they host an annual festival named 'Kalavoottu' as a tribute to nature for providing sufficient harvest.
An 'Aadivasi Koothu' is also conducted as part of the Kalavoottu festival, which is primarily associated with the Kovalan-Kannagi story from the famous Tamil literary work 'Silappatikaram'. It is also organized during the death ceremonies of kings and at times of official annual meetings.
Historical Origins
It is believed that the Mannan community were warriors of the Pandyan lineage, who fled to the forest interiors of Idukki during the prolonged war between the Cheras and Cholas in ancient Tamilakam.
Over time, they established their own kingdom while preserving their unique customs and traditions, making Kovilmala a living museum of ancient South Indian tribal culture.
Goddess Madhura Minakshi of the famed Madura Temple in Tamil Nadu is their Kuladevatha (tutelary deity), connecting them to their ancestral roots.
Cultural Significance
Tribal Heritage
The Mannan tribe has preserved distinct cultural practices, traditions, and customs through generations, offering a window into the ancient tribal lifestyle of South India.
Unique Governance
The blend of democratic principles with monarchical structure makes Kovilmala's governance system a subject of interest for anthropologists and cultural historians.
Living Traditions
Through rituals, festivals, and daily practices, the people of Kovilmala keep their ancestral knowledge and traditions alive in the modern world.