Ainmanes of Kodagu: Ancestral Homes of Kodagu and their Socio-Cutlural Significance

Ainmanes of Kodagu describes the ainmanes (ancestral homes) of the native communities in Kodagu (Coorg) and their socio-cultural significance. Ainmanes are architectural symbols and expressions of the heritage and culture of the people living in this distinctive district of Karnataka state in South India. They bear testimony to the strength and vitality of the okkas (patrilineal clans) of Kodagu and their culture. These ainmanes and the traditions associated with them continue to play a significant role in the lives of the people of Kodagu to this day.

The focus of this book are the traditional ainmanes of Kodagu that are functional. A ‘functional’ ainmane is where all the members of the okka gather to celebrate important ceremonies. (jacket)