Modweth Festival 2024 in Nilgiris Hills

Modweth Festival

• Modhweth is a New Year festival celebrated by the Toda tribe in the Nilgiris Hills of Tamil Nadu.
• The festival is held at the Moonpo Temple in Muthanadu Mund (tribe’s community headquarters). It is one of the oldest Toda temples still in existence.
• The festival marks the beginning of the next yearly cycle for the Todas.

About Todas

• Todas are an indigenous Dravidian ethnic group living in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu.
• They are known for their barrel-vaulted houses and temples, long-horned buffalo and distinctive cloaks.
• They practice polytheism (multiple gods). The most important deities are Teikirzi and On.
• Toda settlements are called mund, they are made up of 3 to 7 small thatched houses built on a wooden framework.

Key Highlights of Modweth Festival 2024

• Location: Various locations across the Nilgiris Hills
• Cultural Performances: Traditional music, folk dances, and storytelling sessions
• Handicrafts and Artisans: Exhibitions of tribal art, local crafts, and handwoven textiles
• Culinary Delights: A feast of authentic tribal cuisine featuring local ingredients
• Community Participation: Engaging workshops and interactive sessions for visitors

The Modweth festival serves as a platform for promoting tribal identity, preserving heritage, and fostering a sense of unity among diverse communities. Surrounded by the serene beauty of the Nilgiris, it offers a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the region’s cultural tapestry.

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