Moothan
The Moothan (or Muttan) are a community in Palakkad district of Kerala, India, who primarily engage in trade. They believe themselves to have migrated to Kerala from Tamil Nadu in the 16th or 17th century, and refer to themselves as Arya Vaisya.[1] The majority of the community is spread in the Moothanthara region of Palakkad town.[citation needed]They use titles such as Guptan, Mannadiyar and Tharakan.[2]
History
Historical records of the Moothanthara Kannaki temple, shows the land given by the then Palakkad Raja to the Moothan trading community, who settled in Palakkad around 16th Century. The community treats themselves as descendants of Kannaki cult, and their rituals carry more resemblance with the Chettiyaar community in Tamil Nadu.
Trade
Till 2 decades ago, Moothan's were the main trading community in Palakkad from Gold/Textiles and other merchandise. The main whole sale trading area of Big Bazar Palakkad still is dominated by traders from Moothan community.
Settlements
There are more settlements of Moothan community in other areas of Palakkad district as Koduvayoor, Ethanur, Kongad, Mankurussi with significant migrants living in the neighbouring city of Coimbatore.
Festivals
Unique festivities of Moothan community includes Karkkadaka Sankranti (June–July), Karthikai(Oct), Thai Pooyam(Jan). Main temple festival is Meenam Arrattu (March–April).
References
- ^ T. Madhava Menon; International School of Dravidian Linguistics (2002). A handbook of Kerala. International School of Dravidian Linguistics. p. 766. ISBN 978-81-85692-31-9. Retrieved 13 May 2013.
- ^ Kumar Suresh Singh; T. Madhava Menon; D. Tyagi (2002). Kerala. Affiliated East-West Press [for] Anthropological Survey of India. p. 947. ISBN 978-81-85938-99-8. Retrieved 13 May 2013.
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