The King (Valiyamoopan / Varakkumalan)

The elders narrate that the four Moopans, who were initially equal in power, once met at Thollayiraparavi and collectively decided to crown one among them, Varakkumalan, as the King. This was to ensure unity and easier coordination, as frequent travel between regions was difficult in the olden days.

The King serves as the supreme head and guardian of the Mannan community, overseeing welfare, administration, and ritual matters. The title passes through a matrilineal succession system in accordance with the community’s customs. Alongside the King, there is an Ilaya Moopan (younger chief) or Ilaya Rajavu, who assists in governance.

Recent Lineage of Kings (as per documented records):

The Duty of the King: The King’s duties include calling meetings with Kaanikkar from various hamlets to discuss matters concerning health, death, and religious rituals. Based on the information gathered, the King instructs the ritual performers to perform the ritual of Nellu itt nokuka to identify the causes of community issues and determine remedies through divine interpretation.

Selection Procedure: Traditionally, after the passing of a King, the position is passed down through the Marumakkathayam system of lineage. The matrilineal family members gather together at the residence of the King,  tenter a trance-like state known as Uranju Thulluka, during which divine will is believed to guide the selection of the next ruler. However, in the recent succession, Raman Rajamannan assumed kingship voluntarily without performing the ritual, leading to differing opinions among the elders regarding divine legitimacy.