Madhika Language

• The Chakaliya community in Kannur, Kerala is grappling with the imminent loss of its unique language Madhika.
• There are only 2 last fluent living speakers of Madhika.
• Madhika, a language spoken by the Chakaliya community that migrated from Karnataka centuries ago, is fast becoming extinct with the younger generation opting for Malayalam.
• Madhika is a blend of Telugu, Tulu, Kannada, and Malayalam.
• Though Madhika is a blend of different languages, it is largely influenced by Havyaka Kannada, an old form of Kannada.
• The language has no script.

ABOUT CHAKALIYA COMMUNITY

• Chakaliya community was considered untouchables, and they were not allowed to participate in feasts associated with marriages and funerals in the past.
• The community was nomadic and worshippers of Thiruvenkatramana and Mariamma.
• The community in northern Malabar migrated from the hilly regions of Karnataka centuries ago.
• Initially recognised as Scheduled Tribe, it was later included in the Scheduled Caste category in Kerala.