Thandan is a caste found in South India. The name is also used as a synonym for another distinct caste group, being the Ezhavas of the same region.
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Thandan Caste (different from Thandans of Thiyya -EZHAVA)
They are coconut and Palmyra tree climbers from south/central Kerala and considered Scheduled caste by the Government of Kerala. The anthropological studies conducted by the Kerala Institute of Research, Training and Development Studies (KIRTADS), revealed that majority of them were Kudikidappukar (tenants) in the past. They form a class of landless and were once labourers attached to the landed gentry. Tree climbing and coconut plucking are their traditional occupation. Their women folk engage in coconut palm leaf platting, rope making and also work as agricultural labourer. Thandan Caste is mainly concentrated in Travancore districts.
Shastam Pattu
This is cultural artform of Thandan (SC) in which they sing songs praising Lord Ayyappa of Sabarimala at temples and the whole thing lasts for a week or so.
Thattikoothu
This is a folk dance presented by the members of Thandan caste during pooram festival in Thrissur.
Achaarakallyanam (Betrothal)
Achaarakallyanam is the betrothal marriage of Thandan community. The relatives of bridegroom visit the bride’s residence for fixing the auspicious date and time of marriage is the function.