The people sleep on mats, which they roll up and store in a corner during the day. They always wash their feet before going inside, where usually only family members and relatives are allowed. On the outskirts of the village, they sometimes build small temples, hen-houses, and animal huts. When compared to the Hindu plains-dwelling peoples that surround them, the Kuruba have preserved a fairly simple, democratic social structure. Although marriage partners are selected from within the tribe, the Kuruba do not marry within their own family clans.
Social control is exercised by a tribal council of men that are selected from the various clans.
The village headman represents the village as a whole, and his position is hereditary. Since they are considered a tribal people by the Indian government, the Kuruba qualify for college scholarships and loans to start their own businesses. Also, they are given priority for jobs. However, it is difficult for them to take advantage of these opportunities since so much of their time is spent simply surviving. The majority of Kuruba are ethnic religionists, following their own tribal religion and beliefs.