Tribal Culture in Wayanad | Ep 9: SAGA with Manu S Pillai ft. Manikuttan Paniyan & Bindu Irulam

Most think of tribal culture in cliches and stereotypes. But it is a far more fascinating world, with its own inner diversity, politics, and distinctive cultural practices. In Episode 9 of SAGA, we engage with two powerful voices from marginalised tribal groups in Kerala: Manikuttan Paniyan and Bindu Irulam. In the first half of the episode, Manikuttan takes us through the story of the Paniya community, and its past and present. In the second half, Bindu introduces us to the lore, song, poetry, and language of the Kattunayakar tribe. Both ultimately hope their tribal identity will be preserved and protected as younger generations engage with the world beyond Wayanad--a message of positivity and expectation. -- The Archival and Research Project (ARPO) is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to discovering, documenting, and sharing lesser-known aspects of cultural heritage in accessible and creative ways. We have won recognitions such as Unesco Asia Pacific Cultural Heritage Conservation Awards, 2023 Founded in 2021 as a collective, ARPO is driven by a shared belief that a deeper understanding of culture and heritage is essential to building a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future. We work at the intersection of research, storytelling, and community engagement to reconnect people with their roots. ARPO is registered as a Society under the Travancore–Cochin Literary, Scientific and Charitable Societies Registration Act, 1955. Follow Arpo on other social media platforms:   / arpo.in     / arpo_in     / arpo.kl