The Story of the Seven Elders among the Javvadu Hills People

ஜவ்வாது மலை மக்களின் ஏழு அண்ணன்மார் கதை

Abstract

The Javvadu Hills, forming part of the Eastern Ghats, extend across the districts of Vellore and Krishnagiri. Even in today’s era of advanced science and technology, the people of the Javvadu Hills continue to uphold their indigenous civilization and cultural values. Their food habits, customs, festivals, rituals, beliefs, and traditional medicine remain preserved without losing authenticity. The Javvadu Hills people also preserve their traditional arts. Street theatre has flourished prominently in the Javvadu Hills. Similarly, folk stories, narrative songs, and dances are highly valued among the hill communities. Both the practice of storytelling and listening have been part of their heritage for generations. Among the hill people, the “Story of the Seven Elders” has emerged as a prominent narrative, conveying moral lessons to humanity in a remarkable manner.