One of the PVTG communities of the State, inhabit Meppadi, Muttil, Padinjarathara, Pozhuthana, Thariyod, Vengapally, Vythiri, Panamaram, Thavinjal, Thirunelli, Vellamunda, Ambalavayal, Meenangadi, Pulpally in areas of Wayanad district and Karullai, Chokkad, Moothedam, Amarambalam, Kallikav, Vandur, Perinthalmanna Nilambur and Pothukal areas in Malappuram district, Alanallur and Mannarkkad areas in Palakkad district; however their concentration is more in Wayanad district. Forest-dependent economy is the backbone of their survival to a greater extent. Minor forest products are the source of income. The community inherits commendable knowledge related to the collection of non wood forest products. The products collected are handed over to the cooperative societies.

 

The community is patrilineal, the succession of property is inherited along the male line, from father to sons and son in laws. Animism was the predominant form of religion until recently. Dance called Koonatta is performed on the occasion of marriage and puberty ceremonies. Kolalu, jodumara and chilanka are their main musical instruments accompanying dances. Thottiyattam is another dance performed by the community on the occasion of rituals festivals like vishu,kavulsavam, besides on the occasion of ancestral worship etc.