Cultural Attitudes Towards Cows in Kerala: A Dual Perspective

In the state of Kerala, the status and treatment of cows are shaped by a rich mix of cultural, religious, and economic factors, differing from the universal reverence seen in certain other parts of India. While Hinduism remains a dominant religion in Kerala, the state's diverse populace includes Christians and Muslims, who may have different beliefs and attitudes toward cows.

Religious Variations in Kerala

Generally, cows enjoy a certain degree of protection under laws in Kerala, such as restrictions on cow slaughter. However, cultural attitudes towards cows can vary widely depending on religious and regional distinctions. For instance, Hinduism in Kerala places significant emphasis on bulls, particularly in religious and ceremonial activities, often prioritizing bulls over cows. This is evident in the use of cowhide and intestines for the chenda and idakka percussion instruments, which are integral to Hindu rituals and festivals, and are played within temples.

Slaughter of Cattle in Kerala

Despite laws and cultural reverence, the slaughter of cows is not entirely taboo in Kerala, especially in the Hindu community. Interestingly, in Kerala, bulls are considered more sacred than cows, and the slaughter of bulls is also not a significant issue. The consumption of beef is integrated into the culture of Kerala, making it a part of various cuisines, including those of all religious communities. This cultural acceptance of beef consumption has been somewhat challenged in recent years by organizations aligned with the Sangh Parivar, such as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), which have been promoting the concept of the 'holy cow' among Hindus. It's humorous to note that many members of these organizations were unaware of this concept until recently, despite having consumed beef numerous times.

Contrast with Mainland India

It is important to distinguish the stance in Kerala from other parts of India, where there are stricter taboos about cow slaughter. The beef ban in states like Maharashtra and the associated controversy have influenced discussions in Kerala, but the responses have been quite different. In Kerala, there has been no significant backlash. Instead, individuals and communities have shown a more nuanced understanding and acceptance, often highlighting the respect given to cows as a symbol of a prestigeous pet rather than a divine entity.

Community Reactions and Social Media

During the beef ban controversy in Maharashtra, some BJP and RSS supporters in Kerala took a stand in support of it. This stance was met with criticism and mockery from the public, who began posting pictures of their leaders enjoying beef on social media, pointing out their hypocrisy. This incident highlights the inherent differences in cultural attitudes toward cows in Kerala compared to other parts of India.

In conclusion, while cows are valued and respected in Kerala, the perception of these animals is marked by a mix of reverence and practicality, reflecting the state's diverse cultural and religious landscape. The treatment of cows in Kerala transcends the rigid taboos seen in other regions, embracing a more flexible and understanding approach.