A Kodava ancestral house in Chennai
A traditional Kodava Ain Mane (ancestral house) has been restored and inaugurated at the DakshinaChitra Museum, a living-history project by the Madras Craft Foundation. This initiative aims to preserve and showcase the rich heritage of the Kodava community. The house originally belonged to the Kodira Kodava family from Arapattu village in Kodagu, dating back to 1852. While the main Kodira Ain Mane remains well-maintained, a second ancestral house built in Koppa, Arapattu, was demolished and replaced by the family.
The wooden components from this demolished house have been re-purposed and incorporated into the new Kodava house at DakshinaChitra Museum, located on East Coast Road, Muttukadu, Chengalpet district, Tamil Nadu.
Original character preserved
The project, which began in 2022, focused on preserving the original structure and character of the ancestral house without alterations. The actual reconstruction at DakshinaChitra commenced in June 2023 and was officially opened to the public on Oct. 23.
The house is now an exhibit at the sprawling museum, adorned with displays showcasing the vibrant Kodava culture. This house highlights the rich Kodava culture, including the community’s customs, traditions, rituals, folk practices, unique attire, cuisine and their deep connection with nature and wildlife. The Kodava House is the latest addition to the living heritage space at DakshinaChitra, showcasing the lifestyle of the Kodava community from the Western Ghats of Karnataka. This marks the 19th ancestral house at the museum, adding to the existing 18 structures that celebrate diverse traditions.
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