Elaborate Srinivas's views on religion and society among the Coorgs.

Srinivas’s Framework: Little and Great Traditions

Srinivas’s analysis of Coorg religion was heavily influenced by Robert Redfield’s distinction between the ‘Great Tradition’ and the ‘Little Tradition’. The Great Tradition, rooted in Sanskritized scriptures and pan-Indian religious ideas, was primarily associated with the Brahmin priests and the educated elite. The Little Tradition, on the other hand, comprised localized beliefs, rituals, and deities specific to the Coorg community. Srinivas observed that Coorg religion was a complex interplay between these two traditions.

Westernization and Religious Change

Srinivas argued that Westernization – defined as the changes brought about by Western impact – played a significant role in altering religious practices among the Coorgs. This wasn’t simply about adopting Western religious beliefs, but rather a broader cultural shift. He noted:

• Decline of Traditional Rituals: Western education and exposure to modern ideas led to a questioning of traditional rituals and beliefs, particularly among the younger generation.
• Rise of Rationalism: Westernization fostered a more rational outlook, leading to a decline in belief in supernatural forces and a greater emphasis on individual agency.
• Changes in Ancestor Worship: While ancestor worship remained important, its forms were modified under Western influence, becoming less elaborate and more symbolic.

Sanskritization and the Coorgs

Despite the impact of Westernization, Srinivas also observed the process of Sanskritization among the Coorgs. This involved lower castes adopting customs and practices associated with the higher castes, particularly Brahmins, in an attempt to improve their social status. In the context of religion, this manifested as:

• Adoption of Brahminical Rituals: Certain Coorg clans began incorporating Brahminical rituals into their ceremonies, such as the use of Brahmin priests and the recitation of Sanskrit mantras.
• Vegetarianism: Some Coorg families adopted vegetarianism, a practice associated with higher castes and considered more ‘pure’.
• Temple Construction: The construction of temples dedicated to pan-Indian deities, rather than solely focusing on local deities, was another manifestation of Sanskritization.

The Role of Local Deities and Rituals

Srinivas emphasized that the Little Tradition didn’t simply disappear with Westernization or Sanskritization. Local deities and rituals continued to be important, providing a sense of community identity and social cohesion. He observed that these local traditions often coexisted with, and were sometimes integrated into, the Great Tradition. For example, the worship of ancestral spirits (kuttus) remained central to Coorg religious life, even as Brahminical rituals gained prominence.

Social Stratification and Religious Practices

Srinivas highlighted the connection between social stratification and religious practices. Different Coorg clans (okkas) had distinct religious customs and beliefs, reflecting their varying social positions. Higher-ranking clans tended to be more Sanskritized, while lower-ranking clans retained more elements of the Little Tradition. This demonstrated how religion was not merely a matter of personal belief, but also a marker of social status and identity.