Medieval Kerala presents a unique and fascinating landscape in terms of gender roles, social customs, and the influence of women in various spheres of life. Women in this era occupied an important space in societal, economic, and cultural contexts, largely shaped by the matrilineal systems that dominated certain communities. However, the decline of these traditions brought significant shifts, influencing the broader roles and status of women. This article explores the matriarchal traditions, their eventual decline, and the economic and cultural influence of women in medieval Kerala.
Matriarchal Traditions in Medieval Kerala
Matrilineal System (Marumakkathayam)
Definition and Practice: The matrilineal system, locally known as Marumakkathayam, was prevalent among the Nairs, some Ezhavas, and certain matrilineal Brahmin communities. In this system, lineage and inheritance were traced through the female line, and family properties were held collectively, managed by the eldest male (known as Karanavar) of the Tharavad (matrilineal family unit).
Role of Women: Women were central to this structure. They were the custodians of lineage, and their position ensured continuity of the family name and wealth.
Key Features of Matriarchy
Inheritance: Property was inherited by the daughters, not sons. The male members of the family were more like stewards than owners.
Marriage and Relationships: The Sambandham system was a form of marital relationship practiced primarily among Nairs and Namboothiris. It allowed women to have relationships without rigid marital obligations.
Autonomy of Women: Women had relative freedom in choosing partners, and the absence of patrilineal control often ensured higher autonomy compared to patriarchal systems.
Decline of Matriarchal Traditions
Colonial and Societal Changes
The arrival of colonial powers, especially the Portuguese, Dutch, and later the British, disrupted traditional systems in Kerala. Their interventions in legal and administrative systems emphasized individual property ownership and patriarchal inheritance laws, leading to the gradual erosion of matrilineal traditions.
Introduction of Western education and Christian missionary activities promoted nuclear family structures and patriarchal norms.
Economic Shifts
The feudal economy of medieval Kerala started transitioning under colonial rule. As landownership laws changed, the Tharavad system weakened, diminishing the economic power women held in matrilineal families.
Social Pressures
Growing Brahminical influence on Kerala society during the medieval period led to an increased emphasis on patriarchal norms, further undermining the matrilineal practices.
The Sambandham system faced criticism and decline due to its incompatibility with the evolving societal ethos, especially as Western morality began to shape public opinion.
Influence of Women in Economic and Cultural Spheres
Economic Role
Land Ownership:
Under the matrilineal system, women indirectly controlled vast tracts of land through the Tharavad. Their roles in managing agricultural estates and ensuring resource allocation made them central to the economy.
Post-marital independence meant women often stayed within their natal homes, contributing to family wealth.
Trade and Commerce:
Coastal Kerala was a hub for spice trade. Women, especially in matrilineal communities, played behind-the-scenes roles in managing trade alliances and family wealth derived from commerce.
Labor and Craftsmanship:
Women engaged in weaving, pottery, and other crafts, significantly contributing to the economic activities of the time.
Cultural Influence
Art and Literature:
Women patronized the arts, with many being custodians of classical dance forms like Mohiniyattam, which has its roots in temple traditions. Women performers and devadasis contributed to the cultural vibrancy of medieval Kerala.
Religion and Rituals:
Women had a significant role in religious practices and temple management. The association of goddesses like Bhagavathi with Keralas spiritual life highlights the cultural importance of women in shaping religious traditions.
Oral Traditions:
Folk songs and ballads often revolved around women, depicting their lives, struggles, and achievements. Women were both creators and transmitters of these oral traditions.
Social Leadership:
Certain matriarchal clans saw women in leadership roles within their family and community, impacting societal decision-making processes.
Key Examples of Prominent Women in Medieval Kerala
Unniyarcha:
A legendary figure from the Vadakkan Pattukal ballads, Unniyarcha symbolizes the strength and valor of medieval Kerala women. She was known for her expertise in Kalaripayattu (traditional martial arts) and is celebrated as a warrior and leader.
Devadasis and Performers:
Women in temple traditions held significant cultural power, contributing to music, dance, and religious practices.
Comparative Analysis of Womens Status
Before Decline:
Women enjoyed higher autonomy and influence in the family and society under the matrilineal system. They were economically empowered through property rights and culturally significant as preservers of traditions.
After Decline:
With the shift towards patriarchy, womens roles became confined to the household. Their participation in economic and cultural spheres diminished, and societal norms increasingly limited their autonomy.