The Rahmani of Kunhikunhi Malmi is the first Indian rutter to be published. It is a late document but it combines many different traditions and is a many layered document. They study of the original text in English translation by an interdisciplinary team serves to bring out into sharper focus the Arab as well as pre-Islamic Indian inputs into the creation of a multi faceted maritime tradition. While it is possible to trace continuity with classical Indian astronomy, the document also shows the creative manner by which traditional usages could absorb western methodologies and techniques thereby adverting disjunction. The book will appeal not only to historians, anthropologists, ethnologists and sociologists but also to the discerning lay person. The Kunhikunhi Malmi document thus, not only highlights the importance of oral tradition but also provides a glimpse of the richness of the data encapsulated in the sailing traditions of Lakshadweep.
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