“Kov” also known as Kotas are one of the designated PTGs (Primitive Tribal Groups) together with the Todas, Irulas, Kurumbas, Kattu Nayakans and the Panniyans inhabiting The Nilgiris. With a total population of 1500 – 2000 spread across 7 settlements in The Nilgiris and customs that prohibit marriage out of the race, the numbers are dwindling. Once known as the artisans amongst the tribes with skills in pottery, black smithy and carpentry, the Kotas have now moved on to agriculture – growing vegetables and other cash crops. Many have sought modern education and are serving as professionals in the fields of engineering and medicine.
The Kotas are disciplined about preserving their way of life. Yet winds of change are strong. Free flow of information fuelled by internet, education and newer occupations are driving the quest for contemporary lifestyle.
On the one hand, this document will serve as a historical reference to the Kota people as a window into their rich traditions and culture. On the other, this document will take a snapshot of how they are adopting technology and the changes it brings.
Kota women return to their hamlet post a ritual in the farm. In the background – the temples of their deities -Ayno-r (father god) and Amno-r (mother goddess) and Shola trees sacred to the tribe in the foreground.
Kota men are still close to nature. In this image a village elder preparing firewood for their yearly festival.
Traditional dance performed on the days and nights of the annual festival being recorded on mobile cameras.
From a Kota kitchen, a lost recipe of puffed buckwheat and jaggery. Once savoured extensively by the tribe is no longer so common.
Kota boys of eligible for marriage showcase their dancing skills in the annual festival.
A little Kota girl departs from the traditional white attire to opt for the more fashionable dress.
As she wonders at which toy to buy at the village fair, the men look on.
Sugi, the village potter automates her wheel using a hand pedalled cycle chain and rings.
A Kota mother waves her child off to a convent school.
Kotas send off their dead dressed and prepared for a happy afterlife.
A dear one pays her last respects to the departed.
Boys engrossed in a mobile game after school.
Its selfie time for the little Kota girl as she prepares for a selfie dressed in traditional finery.