Cultural Aspects:

The individuals consume Ragi kali, thinai, and samai, in addition to rice. They engage in hunting animals and birds, which they prepare as food. Their primary occupations include gathering honey from the forest for sale, raising sheep and cattle, grazing them, and cultivating various forest crops. Traditionally, these tribes have preferred to reside on hill slopes; however, many have recently settled in the plains adjacent to the hills. The dwellings of the Irula tribes are constructed from bamboo branches and are thatched with dried coconut leaves and grasses. Each house features a designated area for storing goat and cow dung, while the entire family typically occupies a single room.

Festive:

The Irula tribe holds a profound belief in God, encompassing devotion to various deities, including those from Saiva and Vaisnava traditions. The Sivarathiri festival is celebrated with great grandeur, reflecting the deep connections within the community. Sivarathiri stands out as the most significant festival, during which the tribe engages in a feast with the Pa’lkurumpakavunder-Irular, fostering strong relationships among participants. Additionally, they honor other traditional deities, such as Maniarasuamman, Veerakali, Vanapathrakali, and Malleswaran, through their rituals and celebrations.

Matrimonial Practice:

A delegation of approximately four to seven individuals from the groom’s family visits the prospective bride’s family to inquire about their background and family details, without partaking in any meals during this visit. They take the opportunity to meet the prospective bride. If they find her to their liking, they will drink water offered by her before they agree to share a meal. Following this, they will extend an invitation to the bride’s family to visit the groom’s residence, where they will discuss wedding arrangements and finalize the marriage date. The ceremony is held at the groom’s home.