N. Binu, a native of Kumily, is better known as Raman Rajamannan, the tribal king of the Mannan community in Kerala. The king and his wife have been invited as guests by the Scheduled Tribes Development Department to attend the Republic Day celebrations in Delhi.
Kovilmala, locally known as Kozhimala, is a tribal settlement and small village near Kattappana in Idukki district, Kerala. It is the only existing tribal kingdom in South India, with over 48 settlements under the king's rule.
Rajamannan succeeded Ariyan Raja Mannan as the king of the tribe in 2012. He is the only literate king from the Mannan community, having completed his graduation in Economics from Maharaja's College in Ernakulam.
Kerala Minister for Welfare of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Backward Classes O. R. Kelu personally handed over the invitation to the king. His presence at the parade symbolises the government's efforts to recognise the country’s diverse tribal communities and promote the spirit of national unity and inclusivity.
Earlier, Pandian, a member of the Mannan community, was invited to the Republic Day celebrations in Delhi. However, Raman Rajamannan will be the first tribal king from the community to attend the event.
Thirty-nine-year-old Rajamannan is a farmer and leads a simple life in a modest house. He dons a traditional headgear, or Thalappavu, at social gatherings. Most of the members of his tribe also work as farmers, or daily wage laborers, or are engaged in the traditional practice of procuring forest produce.
Rajamannan and his wife, Binumol, have already reached Delhi. Their travel expenses have been covered by the Scheduled Tribes Development Department. During their visit, they will tour Agra and other historically important places in the national capital. They will also meet President Droupadi Murmu and other prominent leaders before returning to Kerala on February 2.
