https://doi.org/10.67147/literariness.v1i3.061
Cultural Enrichment and Integration: Exploring the Knanaya Community’s Contribution to Kasaragod’s Diversity
ANUPRIYA P B
Assistant Professor
Department of English
St. Pius X College Rajapuram, Kasaragod, Kerala
DR. ANJU K. N.
Professor
Department of English
T. M. Jacob Memorial Government College, Manimalakkunnu, Kerala
Abstract: Culture is determined by an interplay of factors that shape the beliefs, values, traditions and practices of a particular group of people. These determinants encompass language, geographical surroundings, historical narratives, artistic expressions, literary works, culinary practices, the way of living etc. Kasaragod, the northern most district of Kerala, serves as an epitome of cultural diversity. However, scholarly examinations regarding Kasargod’s cultural diversity have often overlooked the cultural contributions of certain migrant communities that have settled within its borders. One such migrant community is the Knanaya Christian community, a faction of the St. Thomas Christians of Kerala, which pioneered organised migrations to north Malabar. Two of these migrations led to the establishment of Knanaya settlements in present-day Kasaragod district, specifically in Rajapuram and Ranipuram. Characterised by endogamy, this community steadfastly endeavours to preserve its cultural heritage in a multicultural society and ensures that it is celebrated, protected and passed on to future generations. This paper intends to explore the folk culture inherent to this community and delineates how it contributes substantially to the rich cultural diversity of Kasaragod. Moreover, it also highlights how this folk culture serves as a platform for the harmonious integration of different cultures even while adhering to its roots, thus resulting in transculturation.
Keywords: Knanaya Christian Community, Migration, Culture, Ethnicity, Transculturation
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