Kurumba

Kurumba refers to a group of indigenous tribal communities primarily residing in the Nilgiri Mountains of Southern India, specifically in the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. They are one of the ancient tribal communities of the region, with a rich cultural heritage and distinct traditions. The Kurumba people are traditionally forest dwellers, deeply connected to their natural environment, and have historically relied on the forests for their livelihood, utilizing its resources for food, medicine, and shelter.

Their language, also known as Kurumba, belongs to the Dravidian language family. While the exact number of speakers varies, it is an integral part of their cultural identity. The Kurumba communities are known for their unique art forms, particularly their folk songs and dances, which often depict stories from their mythology, daily life, and their relationship with nature. They also possess extensive knowledge of medicinal plants and traditional healing practices.

Historically, the Kurumba communities have faced socio-economic challenges due to displacement, deforestation, and assimilation pressures. However, there are ongoing efforts by various organizations and government bodies to preserve their culture, language, and traditional way of life, while also addressing their developmental needs. Their presence is a significant part of the cultural mosaic of the Nilgiri region.