Tribes of Karnataka are represented with a blend of culture, religion and ethnicity. These tribes of Karnataka have built their settlements in several hilly and mountainous areas. Kannada language is the main language. Several other tribal communities of Karnataka possess their distinct tradition and ethnicity. Some of them are also reckoned as being originated from the warrior race. Fairs and festivals too are an integral part of the culture of and tradition of the state of Karnataka.
Different Tribes of Karnataka
The tribes of Karnataka are also known for their costumes, cultural habits, folk dances and songs, foods and their way of celebrating different festivals and occasions. The long list of the tribes of Karnataka state includes Bedar tribe, Toda tribe, Hakkipikki tribe, Jenu Kuruba tribe, Kadu Kuruba tribe, Kattunayakan tribe, Konda Kapus tribe, Sholaga tribe, etc.
Bedar Tribe: Among several tribal communities of the state of Karnataka, this Bedar tribe is worth mentioning which is far famed in several names, namely, Beda, Berad, Boya, Bendar, etc.
Hakkipikki Tribe: Another tribal community of Karnataka is the Hakkipikki tribe. The birth of this Hakkipikki tribal community has rich history, which also establishes a relation with the famous Ranaprathap Singh.
Jenu Kuruba Tribe: Jenu Kuruba is a Scheduled Tribe community inhabiting the southern districts of Karnataka. This tribe is distinct in its appearance and cultural practices. "Jenu" in Kannada means honey. Hence, they are honey gatherers.
Kadu Kuruba Tribe: Kadu Kuruba tribe is one of the significant tribes who have got the rich tradition of worshiping stone and also their predecessors with lots of festivity and enthusiasm.
Kattunayakan Tribe: Apart from these tribal groups, the Kattunayakan tribe is said to be the descendants of the Pallavas. Collection of food is one of the chief professional activities of the Kattunayakan tribes who also have got inclination to religious values and ethnicity.
Konda Kapus Tribe: Konda Kapus tribe falls in the list of the scheduled tribes in the whole of the Indian subcontinent exulting in its culture and tradition.
Sholaga Tribe: Another important tribal group, Sholaga tribe has a belonging to the Kannada group. They are the followers of Hindu religion. Moreover, the wonderful houses, good clothes, ennobled language has drawn the attention of many people towards the tradition of this tribal community. These tribes have added multiplicity in the tradition and culture of Karnataka.
Toda Tribe: Toda Tribe is the most ancient and unusual tribe of Nilgiri Hills. They have their own language and own secretive customs and regulations. The name "Toda" is derived from the word "tud", a sacred tree of the Todas. It is an ancient tribe which had been cut off from mainstream and developing tribes a long time back.
