TRANSCENDENTAL INTERSTICES: AN ETHNOGRAPHIC EXEGESIS OF SHAMANIC PRAXIS AMONG THE MURAMKULUKKIPATTU MALAYA TRIBE
ShodhGyan-NU: Journal of Literature and Culture Studies October 1, 2025
The 'Muram Kulukki' song and ceremony of the Malaya tribe in Kerala exhibits characteristics of shamanism, including connecting with the spiritual world, reaching trance through music and dance, spiritual healing, community unity, and respect for nature. The ceremony strengthens both spiritual life and social ties, serving as a symbol of unity and a medium for transmitting tribal histories. It provides confidence and comfort where scientific treatment is unavailable and holds artistic value. The authors argue that the shaman's performance enacts the 'call' or initial crisis that led to his revelation, cautioning against misinterpreting the term 'performance'.