ABSTRACT

The resettlement of the Madura district which was proceeding in 1916 was of special importance because in the preceding thirty-year period the Periyar Project from which it benefited came into operation. The demon pitched upon the Palni twin hills for the purpose, and, putting a great rod across his shoulders, hooked them on to the two ends of it, and heaved. Madura and its neighbourhood was the chief home of the Kalian Caste, among whom there are two divisions, the House-breaking Kallans and the Cattle-stealing Kalians. The House-breaking Kallans have largely settled down in the city of Madura, and some of them have found a kindred means of living by taking service with householders as watchmen—one Kalian does not rob a house where another is so installed. Others find employment in the Madura Mill, for the caste rules, while they enjoin theft, do not prohibit other activities.