Tribes of Niligiris

Photo courtesy:http://www.nilgiris.tn.gov.in

Hut of the Todas(Left) The traditional Toda(Right)

The "Todas"also know as Tudas / Tudavans / Todar are one of the primitive tribal groups in Tamil Nadu,India.The name "Todas" is derived from the "Tud tree",which is a sacred tree for the Todas.The Todas language dialect is an independent language which has influence of Tamil and Malayalam.The Todas live in a unique hut that is barrel shaped.

Photo courtesy:http://www.nilgiris.tn.gov.in
Kothas perforing their traditional dance

The "Kothas",live in Kothagiri.They are the artisans who are good in carpentry,metal works and pottery.Unlike the Todas the Kothas have excelled in education and are employed in many Government and private sectors.

The "Kurumbas" who are another sector in the tribes are traditional food gatherers as per occupation.They collect honey and produce.Due to their nature of work the Kurumbas stay in temporary houses called "Gudlu"

Photo courtesy:http://www.nilgiris.tn.gov.in
The Kurumbas and Irulas performing the tribal dance

The "Irulas" stay in parts of Kothagiri and Conoor.Earlier the Irulas were engaged in collecting few forest produce and took care of cattle.

The "Mullukurumbas" belong to Gudalur and they are one of the most primitive tribes as they still use bow and arrow for hunting.

The "Paniyas"(or workers) are inhabitants of Gudalur.They are considered to be one of the most backward tribes.The Paniyas were the sect of tribes who were bonded laborers earlier.Now most of them help in agriculture.

The "Kattunaikans" are another group of tribes who belong to Gudulur.