Tuesday, May 6, 2008

Rubbing Elbows with a King

Yes, I had the opportunity to talk to, shake hands with and even wrap my hand around the shoulders of a king. It's no joke. He's is the only tribal king in India. His name is Ariyan Raja Mannan and is known as the Kozimala King of the Mannan tribe. He is not your typical king living in huge palaces but he has quite a large number of subjects living in several hamlets in Idukki. He does not have a car, yet people show deference to him. Despite being poor, he radiates confidence and exudes regal composure. He seldom smiles and is laconic in his conversation. According to colleagues, he is actually one of WV sponsored children in the past.
Here are some of my photos with him.

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