[Document title]

USER
RIBeX[Company address]
 English Project
Cultural differences between Kerala
and Chhattisgarh
Madhav M Nair
10 – D
14
 Index

S.No. Content Pg.

No.

1. Acknowledgement 1
2. Introduction 2
3. Comparison of 3-4
languages
4. Religion and Festivals 5-6
5. Comparison of Cuisine 7-8
6. Traditional Attire 9-
10
7. Comparison of Art 11-
forms 12
8. Social and family 13-
dynamics 14
9. Graphical 15-
Comparisons 16
10. Fun/Interesting Facts 17
11. Conclusion 18
Acknowledgement
 Introduction

Kerala and Chhattisgarh, two culturally vibrant states of India,

showcase the country's diversity through their distinct
traditions and lifestyles. Kerala, located along the south-
western coast, is known for its progressive society, lush
backwaters, and a strong focus on education and healthcare,
while Chhattisgarh, situated in central India, is deeply rooted in
tribal heritage, nature-centric traditions, and rural livelihoods.
Kerala celebrates festivals like Onam and features classical art
forms such as Kathakali, while Chhattisgarh’s culture revolves
around Bastar Dussehra, tribal dances, and folk music.
Economically, Kerala thrives on tourism, fisheries, and
remittances, whereas agriculture, mining, and handicrafts form
the backbone of Chhattisgarh. Together, these states highlight
the rich cultural mosaic of India, each offering a unique blend of
history, art, and social practices.
1.Languages and Dialects

Kerala

The primary language spoken in Kerala is Malayalam,

which belongs to the Dravidian language family and has
a rich literary tradition spanning over a thousand years.
Malayalam uses a script derived from the ancient
Grantha script and is known for its classical poetry,
modern novels, and philosophical works. In addition to
Malayalam, people in Kerala are often multilingual.
English is widely spoken, particularly in urban areas,
owing to the state’s focus on education and international
exposure through expatriates working in the Middle
East. Tamil and Tulu are spoken along the borders, and
Konkani is used by smaller communities, especially in
northern parts of the state like Kasaragod. The state's
religious communities also use specific liturgical
languages: Arabic, Hebrew, and Syriac have cultural
relevance due to Kerala’s historic connections with
Judaism, Islam, and Christianity.
 1.Languages and Dialects

Chhattisgarh

The primary language of Chhattisgarh is Chhattisgarhi,

an Indo-Aryan dialect closely related to Hindi, though it
is often considered a separate language by locals. It has
its own vocabulary and idiomatic expressions that reflect
the rural and agricultural lifestyle of the region. In
addition to Chhattisgarhi, Hindi is commonly spoken,
particularly in government institutions and urban areas.
Tribal communities in the state communicate in
languages such as Gondi, Halbi, Korku, and Bhatri.
These tribal languages, rich in oral traditions, often
include folklore, myths, and songs passed down through
generations. Some of these languages are now being
documented and revived as part of efforts to preserve
the state's indigenous heritage.
 2.Religion and Festivals

Kerala

Kerala is known for its religious diversity, with Hindus,

Muslims, Christians, and smaller communities of Jains,
Jews, and Buddhists coexisting harmoniously. Hinduism
is the largest religion, with major festivals like Onam,
Vishu, and Navaratri celebrated state-wide. Muslims,
concentrated in the Malabar region, celebrate Eid and
Milad-un-Nabi, while Christianity—introduced by St.
Thomas the Apostle—is marked by Christmas and
Easter. Kerala also houses India’s oldest synagogue in
Kochi, reflecting its long Jewish heritage. Festivals like
Theyyam and boat races are celebrated across
communities, showcasing the state’s inclusive spirit.
 2. Religion and Festivals

Chhattisgarh

Chhattisgarh’s religious identity blends Hinduism with

tribal customs cantered on nature worship. The 75-day
Bastar Dussehra focuses on local deities like
Danteshwari Devi rather than Rama. Festivals like
Hareli and Pola mark agricultural milestones, while
Madai Mela is celebrated with music and dance in tribal
villages. Communities like the Gonds follow animistic
beliefs, worshipping forests, rivers, and ancestral spirits.
While urban areas celebrate Eid and Christmas, the
state’s spiritual heart lies in traditional fairs and rituals,
reflecting its deep connection to nature.
 3.Cuisuines

Kerala

Kerala’s cuisine is marked by its use of coconut, spices,

seafood, and rice. Staple dishes include Puttu (steamed
rice cake), Appam (fermented rice pancake), and
Idiyappam (string hoppers) served with stews or curries.
Seafood like Karimeen Pollichathu (fish wrapped in
banana leaf) and vegetarian dishes such as Avial and
Sambar are popular. Malabar biryani is a regional
favourite, especially in northern Kerala. Sadya, a grand
banana leaf feast during Onam, showcases Kerala’s
culinary diversity. Influenced by its coastal geography
and spice trade history, Kerala offers a flavourful blend
of local and global tastes.
 3.Cusuines

Chhattisgarh

Chhattisgarh’s cuisine revolves around local grains,

forest produce, and simple preparations. Staples
include rice, millets, Chila (rice pancakes), and Fara
(steamed dumplings). Tribal communities use
foraged ingredients like mahua flowers to make
liquor and sweets. Aamat (bamboo shoot curry) and
Bafauri (steamed gram flour dumplings) are popular
for their earthy flavours, while festive treats like
Khurma (sweet biscuits) and Thethri (savoury
 snacks) are enjoyed during celebrations. The cuisine
reflects the state’s agricultural lifestyle and close
connection to forests and festivals.

4.Traditional Attire

Kerala

Kerala’s traditional clothing reflects its simplicity and

elegance, with a focus on natural fabrics like cotton.
Men typically wear a Mundu, a white dhoti worn around
the waist, often paired with a shirt or Angavastram
(shawl). For festivals and weddings, a Kasavu Mundu
with a golden border is popular. Women wear the
Kasavu Saree, a white saree with a gold border,
especially during Onam and weddings. In rural areas,
women may also wear set mundu, a two-piece garment.
 The traditional attire is designed to suit the humid
climate, emphasizing comfort and style.

4.Traditional Attire

Chhattisgarh

The traditional attire in Chhattisgarh reflects its tribal

heritage and is often made from locally woven fabrics.
Men wear Dhoti with a turban or gamchha (cotton
towel) draped over their shoulders. Women wear Lugda
or Kachhora, which are draped sarees tied differently
from conventional styles. Silver jewellery is an essential
part of women’s attire, along with colourful bangles and
anklets. Tribal communities also adorn themselves with
ornaments made of beads, feathers, and coins. The
clothing is vibrant, reflecting the state’s connection to
nature and tribal customs.

5.Arts, Dance and Music

Kerala
 Kerala is renowned for its classical art forms and
dances, with Kathakali—a dance-drama featuring
elaborate makeup, costumes, and expressions—being
the most iconic. Mohiniyattam, a graceful dance
performed by women, and folk dances like Theyyam and
Thiruvathira highlight the blend of tradition and
storytelling. Carnatic music dominates the classical
scene, while instruments like the chenda (drum) and
edakka are essential in temple rituals. The Pulikali folk
art, where performers paint themselves as tigers, is
another unique cultural display. Kerala’s famous boat
races, accompanied by rhythmic songs known as
Vanchipattu, also showcase the state’s vibrant artistic
traditions.

5.Arts, Dance and Music

Chhattisgarh
 Chhattisgarh’s arts, dance, and music reflect its tribal
heritage and rural lifestyle. Raut Nacha, performed by
cowherds, and Panthi dance, linked to the Satnami sect,
are among the most prominent folk dances. Saila, a
lively stick dance, marks the post-harvest season, while
Muria and Gaur dances are unique to tribal
communities. These performances are often
accompanied by local instruments like drums and flutes.
Folk songs such as Suan and Pathoni narrate stories of
love, nature, and mythology. The state’s handcrafted
masks, pottery, and metalwork reflect its artistic
identity, emphasizing simplicity, vibrancy, and the deep
connection between art and daily life.
 6.Social Structure and
Family Dynamics
Kerala

Kerala’s social structure is known for its high literacy

rate, matrilineal traditions, and progressive outlook.
Communities like the Nairs historically traced property
and lineage through the mother’s line, though this has
declined. Families prioritize education, healthcare, and
gender equality, with both men and women contributing
to household income. A large diaspora in the Gulf
influences family life through remittances and overseas
employment. Elder care is highly valued, and households
often include extended family members, reflecting
strong familial bonds.
 6. Social Structure and
Family Dynamics

Chhattisgarh

Chhattisgarh’s social structure is rooted in tribal

traditions and rural lifestyles. Joint families are common,
with patrilineal inheritance, and village councils
(Panchayats) play a key role in resolving disputes and
maintaining order. Family life revolves around
agriculture and shared labour, with traditional gender
roles more prominent in rural areas. During festivals,
however, men and women participate equally in cultural
activities, reflecting elements of gender equality. Elders
are deeply respected, and children are raised with a
sense of collective responsibility and harmony with
nature, which plays a central role in the lives of many
tribal communities.
Graphs
 1st graph

The literacy rate reflects the educational

achievements of both states, with Kerala leading at
96.2%, one of the highest in India. This can be
attributed to the state's early focus on universal
education, strong public schooling, and high social
awareness about literacy. In contrast, Chhattisgarh
has a literacy rate of 70.3%, which, while improving
over the years, is still impacted by challenges like
rural isolation, tribal population education gaps,
and limited infrastructure in some areas. Kerala’s
higher literacy contributes to its progressive social
indicators, while Chhattisgarh is focusing on
expanding educational outreach, especially in
tribal regions.

2nd graph
 Kerala has an urbanization rate of 47.7%,
reflecting a significant portion of its population
living in urban or semi-urban areas, driven by
factors like migration, tourism, and industrial
growth. The urban lifestyle in Kerala influences
access to better education, healthcare, and social
services. On the other hand, Chhattisgarh’s
urbanization rate stands at 23.2%, with much of its
population residing in rural and forested areas.
This lower rate reflects the state's dependence on
agriculture and tribal livelihoods, though recent
efforts aim to develop urban centres through
industrialization and smart city projects.

Fun/Interesting Facts

Kerala

1.World’s First Baby-Friendly State:

Kerala was the first state in the world to be declared
“baby-friendly,” promoting exclusive breastfeeding
and child health care practices.
 2.Highest Number of Libraries per Capita:
Kerala has a strong reading culture with the highest
number of libraries per capita in India. You can find
reading rooms even in remote villages!

Chhattisgarh

1.The 75-Day Dussehra:

Chhattisgarh celebrates Bastar Dussehra for 75 days
—one of the longest festivals in the world, focusing
on tribal deities and customs, rather than Lord
Rama.

2.Mahua Madness:
The tribal communities of Chhattisgarh brew mahua
liquor from the flowers of the mahua tree. It’s more
than just a drink—it holds cultural significance in
rituals and festivals.

Conclusion

Kerala and Chhattisgarh, though both rich in

culture and tradition, exhibit striking
contrasts in their social, economic, and
lifestyle aspects. Kerala’s focus on education,
healthcare, and urbanization has fostered
 progressive social indicators, such as a high
literacy rate and favourable gender ratio. In
contrast, Chhattisgarh’s tribal heritage, rural
economy, and slower urbanization shape its
social structure, emphasizing traditional
livelihoods and collective responsibility. Both
states demonstrate unique strengths: Kerala’s
global outlook and Chhattisgarh’s deep-
rooted tribal customs. While Kerala
showcases the benefits of modernization,
Chhattisgarh preserves the beauty of
simplicity and nature, highlighting the
diverse fabric of India’s regional identities.