The Kanikkar Tribe: Guardians of Tradition and Nature in Kerala
Kerala, known for its rich cultural diversity, is home to numerous tribal communities, each with unique traditions and lifestyles. Among them, the Kanikkar tribe stands out as one of the largest tribal groups in the state. According to the Census of India (1981), their population was recorded at around fourteen thousand, with settlements concentrated in the forested regions of Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam districts. The Kanikkars embody a fascinating blend of heritage, ecological wisdom, and cultural resilience.