Located to the south of Lakshadweep, the Minicoy island encompasses a total population of 9495. Popularly referred to as the female island, the Minicoy island boasts of rich historical legacies and cultural traditions that has percolated from the bygone golden era to the modern times.
The Minicoy island comprise of ten exotic villages which represent the rich biodiversity of the region. Endowed with natural scenic beauty, the villages are governed by the strict administrative structure which are led by a Bodukaka (big brother) who represents the menfolk and a Bodudatha (big sister) who rerpresent the womenfolk of the region.
The villages of the Minicoy island are noted for the ordered social and political structure that reflects the administrative skills of the local people of the island. The villages has a separate place for public bath of men and women respectively, religious monuments, graveyards and a place for punishment.
The semilunar shaped island of Minicoy has a vast reserve of the unique flora and fauna of the region. The nothern extension of the Minicoy island is called Viringili or the Small Pox island. This part of the island derived its name from the fact that the patients affected with the deadly disease of small pox were kept in Viringili for proper medical care.
Reflecting the rich indigenous traditions, the local people of the Minicoy Island, celebrate their festivals with much pomp and show. The colorful and attractive folk dances of Dandi, Lava, Fuli, Bandiya and Thaara reflects the culture of the Minicoy island.
Last Updated on 9/23/2011
