Malana: The Political System of a Himalayan Community

a lost classic of the ethnographic village studies genre”

Colin Rosser’s research provides a deep dive into the intricate social and political dynamics of the enigmatic Malana village.

Originally a PhD dissertation in 1956, this work, described as “a lost classic of the ethnographic village studies genre” by Dr. Richard Axelby (SOAS, University of London), offers a nuanced perspective gained from Rosser’s eighteen-month immersion in the village between 1951 and 1952.

This timeless piece stands as a significant contribution to the field of anthropology, dispelling stereotypes and presenting a profound appreciation of Malana’s contradictions and complexities.

-----The book unfolds in three parts, beginning with an exploration of Malana’s unique identity as a secluded village with economic dependencies. This section highlights the village’s hermit-like status, emphasizing physical, linguistic, and cultural isolation, coupled with a reliance on external contributions for sustenance.

The second part delves into Malana’s internal social structure, meticulously examining divisions into two wards, the nature of eight patriclan's, the complexities of the marriage system, and the relationships between the Malanis and lower castes. This in-depth analysis provides a nuanced understanding of the intricate societal dynamics within the village.

The third and pivotal part of the thesis centers on the political principles governing Malana, revealing a pursuit of equilibrium among structurally equivalent segments, notably the two wards. Family heads emerge as political associations, distinct from the clan organization, mobilizing the community under the council’s command and supported by supernatural powers, positioning the god as the ultimate coercive authority.

The conclusion scrutinizes the enduring “mechanical solidarity” within Malana, utilizing Durkheimian terms and identifying seven variables contributing to this societal cohesion. Rosser’s work not only serves as a historical snapshot but also endures as a case study, offering timeless insights into the interplay between politics and social dynamics within this unique theocratic community.