Regional Deities of Tulu Nadu

Research Proposal: Divine Guardians of Tulu Nadu

• The research focuses on regional deities in Tulu Nadu, India, and their cultural significance in the region.

Introduction

• Tulu Nadu is a region in India with a rich cultural heritage steeped in spirituality.
• The region has a plethora of local deities worshipped by the local population, influencing their daily lives, rituals, and festivals.

Objectives

• Identify and compile a list of regional deities worshipped in Tulu Nadu.
• Investigate the unique attributes, forms, and stories associated with each deity.
• Examine the rituals, festivals, and ceremonies dedicated to these deities.
• Assess the socio-cultural impact of these deities on the local population.

Literature Review

• Existing literature on regional deities is scarce, emphasizing major pan-Indian gods and goddesses.
• Specific studies on Tulu Nadu's local deities are absent, and the research aims to bridge this gap.

Research Methodology

• Field surveys: Conduct interviews with local priests, devotees, and elders to gather firsthand information.
• Archival research: Explore ancient texts, inscriptions, and temple records.
• Observations: Attend religious ceremonies and festivals to observe rituals and interactions.

Data Analysis

• Content analysis: Analyze narratives, myths, and legends related to each deity.
• Comparative study: Compare regional deities' characteristics across different villages and communities.
• Quantitative assessment: Survey devotees to gauge the impact of deity worship on their lives.

Research Gaps

• Lack of documentation: Absence of comprehensive records detailing the pantheon of Tulu Nadu's regional deities.
• Cultural syncretism: Understanding how these deities blend with broader Hindu traditions and local customs.
• Impact on identity: The role of deity worship in shaping individual and collective identities within the Tulu Nadu community.

Year-Wise Plan

• Year 1: Literature review, archival research, and initial field surveys.
• Year 2: In-depth interviews with key informants, comparative analysis of deity attributes, and preliminary findings synthesis.
• Year 3: Participant observation during festivals, socio-cultural impact assessment, and final data analysis and interpretation.

References

• P.S. Ramakrishnan, "Sacred Groves in Kerala: A Traditional System of Sustainable Management of Nature" (Journal of Environmental Management)
• Catrien Notermans and Albertina Nugteren, "Ecological Significance of Nāga Worship and Sacred Groves in Kerala" (Religions Journal)
• Peter J. Claus, "Bhuta Worship in Tulu Nadu: Tradition and Transition" (Asian Folklore Studies)
• B. Surendra Rao, "The Alupa Dynasty and Their Contribution to Tuluva Culture" (Institute of Asian Studies)
• K.K.N. Kurup, "Sacred Groves and the Brahminical Tradition in Kerala" (University of Calicut Press)

Research Proposal: Divine Guardians of Tulu Nadu

• The research focuses on regional deities in Tulu Nadu, India, and their cultural significance in the region.

Introduction

• Tulu Nadu is a region in India with a rich cultural heritage steeped in spirituality.
• The region has a plethora of local deities worshipped by the local population, influencing their daily lives, rituals, and festivals.

Objectives

• Identify and compile a list of regional deities worshipped in Tulu Nadu.
• Investigate the unique attributes, forms, and stories associated with each deity.
• Examine the rituals, festivals, and ceremonies dedicated to these deities.
• Assess the socio-cultural impact of these deities on the local population.

Literature Review

• Existing literature on regional deities is scarce, emphasizing major pan-Indian gods and goddesses.
• Specific studies on Tulu Nadu's local deities are absent, and the research aims to bridge this gap.

Research Methodology

• Field surveys: Conduct interviews with local priests, devotees, and elders to gather firsthand information.
• Archival research: Explore ancient texts, inscriptions, and temple records.
• Observations: Attend religious ceremonies and festivals to observe rituals and interactions.

Data Analysis

• Content analysis: Analyze narratives, myths, and legends related to each deity.
• Comparative study: Compare regional deities' characteristics across different villages and communities.
• Quantitative assessment: Survey devotees to gauge the impact of deity worship on their lives.

Research Gaps

• Lack of documentation: Absence of comprehensive records detailing the pantheon of Tulu Nadu's regional deities.
• Cultural syncretism: Understanding how these deities blend with broader Hindu traditions and local customs.
• Impact on identity: The role of deity worship in shaping individual and collective identities within the Tulu Nadu community.

Year-Wise Plan

• Year 1: Literature review, archival research, and initial field surveys.
• Year 2: In-depth interviews with key informants, comparative analysis of deity attributes, and preliminary findings synthesis.
• Year 3: Participant observation during festivals, socio-cultural impact assessment, and final data analysis and interpretation.

References

• P.S. Ramakrishnan, "Sacred Groves in Kerala: A Traditional System of Sustainable Management of Nature" (Journal of Environmental Management)
• Catrien Notermans and Albertina Nugteren, "Ecological Significance of Nāga Worship and Sacred Groves in Kerala" (Religions Journal)
• Peter J. Claus, "Bhuta Worship in Tulu Nadu: Tradition and Transition" (Asian Folklore Studies)
• B. Surendra Rao, "The Alupa Dynasty and Their Contribution to Tuluva Culture" (Institute of Asian Studies)
• K.K.N. Kurup, "Sacred Groves and the Brahminical Tradition in Kerala" (University of Calicut Press)