Manifestation of Liminality in Malayali Tribes

Liminality, the unique state of in-betweenness is a form of social interaction that continues to shape the human society. The role of liminality is effectively explored through the performance theory that analyses human actions as parts of performance. Being the second phase of the performance, liminality offers an insight into the actions of the individuals who perform. The phase of liminality is not strangulated and is often analysed with the other two phases of separation and aggregation. Liminality that signifies transition is prominently evident in Malayali tribes, one of the largest tribal groups that occupy the Eastern Ghats of Tamil Nadu. The rich and diversified practices and traditions of the tribe is a distinct portrayal of the Indian tribal culture. 

The culture of the Malayali tribe is exhibited through their lifestyle, food, dance and music that define their uniqueness. The study is an attempt to identify the stages of performance through the lifestyle of the Malayali tribes. It aims to bring out the elements of liminality that distinguished the tribes. It explores Victor Turner’s idea of communitas evident in the Malayali tribes that endorses the equality among all human beings. The research sets out to analyse the integral role of food, music and dance in binding the culture of the people. It aims to uncover the mysticity that is observed during the liminal phase. It is an exploration of the intrinsic human bond that is manifested through the Malayali tribes.