Reinventing Livelihoods: A Case Study of Kammalar Community in Alleppey District of Kerala

Abstract

This paper discusses the unique historical identity gained by the Kammalar community in South India due to their contributions to temple arts and crafts. A brief analysis of the factors responsible for their settlement in Kerala is attempted. Besides, the study investigates the push and pull factors that contributed to job mobility from the traditional crafts, especially among the younger generations of this community. The primary survey-based investigation of the Kammalar community in the Alleppey District of Kerala shows that education, competition from machine-made products, and declining preference for conventional art have contributed to this adaptation to modern markets.