A Phrenologist Amongst the Todas or the Study of a Primitive Tribe in South India - History, Character, Customs, Religion Infanticide, Polyandry, Language

The Todas are an ethnic Dravidian group living in the present-day state of Tamil Nadu. Toda communities serve as an important subject of study for understanding social anthropology. A Phrenologist Amongst the Todas is an anthropological study conducted during the British rule over large parts of South India, particularly the Madras State. The author covers major topics that are informative for anthropologists and sociologists, including historical origins, physiognomy, phrenology, geological surveys, demography, religion, and social norms. Additionally, it discusses social issues, funerary practices, and marriage customs, particularly polyandry, which was a key feature of Toda society. Lastly, the author studies the language and linguistic characteris­tics of the community.