Question

Which of the following statements are true regarding the 'Irular' community ?

1. They speak the Irula language, a Dravidian language that is closely related to Kannada
2. The majority of Irulars worship deities such as Vishnu, known as Rangaswami, and Siva, without differentiation.
3. Some Irulars follow animistic beliefs, worshiping the tiger as a visible god and its footprints.

• A. ii, iii
• B. All
• C. i, iii
• D. iii only

Answer 1

Answer:

A. ii, iii

Irulars

• Irula, also known as Iruliga, are a Dravidian ethnic group inhabiting the Indian states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka.
• In Kerala they are found in the Palakkad District 
• They speak the Irula language, a Dravidian language that is closely related to Tamil/
• Although their dialect combines Malayalam and Tamil phrases for effective communication.
• Irulars are skilled in agriculture, specializing in crops like paddy, ragi, dal, and turmeric.
• They actively participate in farming, hunting, and the rearing and selling of goats and poultry.
• Many Irulars worship deities such as Vishnu, known as Rangaswami, and Siva, without distinction.
• Some Irulars follow animistic beliefs, worshiping the tiger as a visible god and its footprints.
• The 2011 census estimates their population at around 23,721 individuals.