Thiruvananthapuram: The matriarchal system that prevailed in the state once was changed to patriarchy by the British who identified men as the leaders of the family, according to historian Manu S. Pillai. "The royal women of Travancore did whatever the men were afraid to do," he said.
He was speaking to DC on the sidelines of the second day of the four-day 'Space fest' jointly organised by Kerala Tourism, DC Books and DC School of Architecture and Design at Kanakakkunnu palace here. The festival deals with the various aspects of design, culture and politics through discussions, conversations and demonstrations.
Mr Pillai said the modern education system also played a part in the social transformation. "Even a person married to the queen remained her servant," he said. He recalled a story about the mother of a Travancore queen who was upset at her daughter for allowing her husband to be in the same car with her. This system was less equal than a patriarchy, he said.
"If the Rani liked a man, the priest had to make the astrology work for her," said Manu pointing out that women had a stronger voice in the homes in the bygone era.
Earlier, Mr Pillai was hosted by Meena T. Pillai at the session 'Matriarchs in the making of Travancore.'
Owner of Jumbo Circus, Gemini Shankaran, during a session with moderator Thaha Madayi, explained how he maintained a good physique even at the age of 96.
He wakes up at five in the morning and exercises, he said and asked the youth to eat what is right for their body while exercising reasonably.
"In a circus, none cares about your caste or religion and we have to work united," responded Gemini when asked about whether religion and caste played a role in a circus.
