Malayarayan

Location: Districts of Kasaragod, Kannur, Wayanad, and Kozhikode in Kerala.

Taluk: Not specified, but they are distributed in various taluks within the mentioned districts.

Villages: The specific villages are not mentioned, but they are found in several settlements across the four districts.

Demographic details: Detailed demographic information such as population, sex ratio, and literacy rate are not provided.

Additional Details of Malayarayan:

The Malayarayan community is recognized as a Scheduled Tribe in Kerala. They are predominantly found in the districts of Kasaragod, Kannur, Wayanad, and Kozhikode. The exact distribution of villages and settlements within these districts is not specified.

Malayarayans are known for their unique cultural heritage and traditional practices. They speak a dialect that combines Tamil and Malayalam phrases. The community's social organization is divided into two sub-divisions: "Nattu Malayan," the original inhabitants of Kerala's hill areas, and "Konga Malayan," who migrated from the forests of Coimbatore District in Tamil Nadu.

Traditionally, the Malayarayans have been forest laborers and collectors of non-timber forest produce. They are skilled in cutting bamboo and reeds from the forest and are known for their expertise in using forest resources for their subsistence and trade.

Over time, the Malayarayan community has faced challenges due to forest laws and changes in their livelihood patterns. Some of their traditional cultivation practices have been affected, leading them to strive for their traditional rights through the implementation of the Forest Rights Act, 2006.

As a Scheduled Tribe community, the Malayarayans are entitled to various welfare and development programs by the government. However, concerted efforts are needed to address their specific needs and empower them to adapt to the changing times while preserving their cultural identity.