Introduction – Tree of Matrilineal Society, Udupi

Koragas, are a matrilineal society

In the forest area, under a huge tree, “Marmara” on Matrilineal values of the Koragas was held on the 27 April, at Pernal, Udupi District.

Forty women from Kasargod, Dakshinakannada and Udupi participated with utmost happiness.

The Marmara began with melodious songs on Nature appreciating the unconditional love and care given by Mother Nature.

The Koragas a primitive tribe in Karnataka professing humane values which celebrates life of both women and men. This community stands very high in practicing values which are very inclusive. Many of the practices are far more progressive than the so called “main stream and male stream society”.

The following thoughts takes all of us through some practices and values of this simple community.

The lineage is recognized through women. The woman is “V amshodharaki as against son as Vamshodharaka in patriarchalsociety”.

Celebration around the birth of girls demonstrates the relationship between Mother Nature and the community. The newly born child is taken to a coconut tree, the tottilu shastra is performed under the tree. This tree remains important throughout her life as other rituals are performed under this tree only.

Women have sexual autonomy. Women and men can decide the in way of living. They can get married and live together; They live together without marriage; they can get separated if they feel the partnership is incompatible; reunion is also possible; The question of purity does not bother this community and there is no widow practice in the community; indeed, they do not have such a word in their language; No dowry practice.

All the rituals of the community are nature friendly.

Women’s life is celebrated throughout her life. She is the head of the family and takes decisions in consultation with other members of the family. No cultural performance can happen without women. At the same time, men are not neglected. They do have a say in all important matter concerning the family and the community. Both women and men play together from childhood until they are aged.

The Marmara concluded with a song celebrating the unconditional love, care, affection shown by our mothers for centuries.

This way of living sets a path for all of us who are living under the grip of patriarchy. Can this way of life guide all of us who are struggling hard to wipe away the darkness of patriarchy and light the lamp of equality!

This Marmara was organised by the Koraga Abivruddhi Sangagala Okkoota Nandini and the Swaraj network.
 

Introduction >> Photos of the Marmara >>