Ghosts of Empire, Spirits of Resistance: The Kappiri Legend and Kochi's Mythical Topographies

Abstract

This research study examines the intersections of myth, memory, and space through an in-depth exploration of the literary representation of the Kappiri myth prevalent in the city of Kochi. The Kappiri myth, originating from the city’s Portuguese colonial era, tells of African slaves (Kappiris) who were buried alive to guard their masters’ treasures. Over time, this myth has become a vital part of Kochi’s cultural landscape, serving as a lens through which the community negotiates its historical memory and post-colonial identity. The novel Adiyalapretham by P.F. Mathews deals with the Kappiri myth. This research aims to understand how the Kappiri myth not only creates collective memories but also actively constructs subversive identities among Kochiites within the urban fabric of Kochi.

Employing a qualitative methodology that includes textual analysis and spatial examination, this study draws on theoretical frameworks from Homi Bhabha’s work on third space, Pierre Nora’s concept of lieux de mémoire, Arnold Van Gennep’s Liminality and Michel Foucault’s theory of heterotopias. The research investigates how specific locations, such as Kappiri Muthappan shrines and Anjili trees, are imbued with mythic significance, transforming them into sites that embody collective memory and cultural resilience.

Findings indicate that the Kappiri myth plays a crucial role in the spatial identity of Kochi, creating spaces that function as both memorials of the city’s colonial past and sites of cultural resilience. By examining the myth’s influence on the construction of spaces, this paper contributes to a deeper understanding of how folklore shapes not only social memory but also the physical and symbolic landscapes of post-colonial cities, thereby enriching discussions on the role of myth in spatial and cultural studies.