Explained | Kodava Community and the Caste Census: Why the Confusion?

For decades, Kodavas have been regarded as a small, distinct tribal community with their own customs, rituals, and identity.

The Karnataka government’s ongoing Social and Educational Survey—commonly called the caste census—has brought unexpected confusion within Kodagu’s Kodava community. At the heart of the debate is a fundamental question: should Kodavas record themselves under the Hindu religion or as followers of a distinct Kodava faith?

The Kodagu Express breaks down the issue and the differing viewpoints.

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 What is the Debate About?

For decades, Kodavas have been regarded as a small, distinct tribal community with their own customs, rituals, and identity. Now, as survey officials reach households, community leaders are divided on how their people should be represented in the census records.

One section of leaders insists that Kodavas should write “Kodava” under caste, language, and religion. Another section maintains that while caste and language may be Kodava, religion must be recorded as Hindu.

Akhila Kodava Samaja’s Position

The Akhila Kodava Samaja, a key representative body, has issued a statement through its president, Paradanda Subramani Kaverappa. He urged all Kodavas to record “Kodava” in the caste, language, and religion categories.

Kaverappa explained that before the 1941 census, the Kodava population was recognised as a rare and distinct tribe with no caste divisions or sects. He expressed concern that the dwindling numbers of Kodavas could eventually dilute the community’s cultural identity if they continue to be subsumed under larger groups.

He added that while discussions were held at the Samaja level, opinions were split and no final resolution was achieved. According to him, the decision ultimately rests with individuals, and there is no compulsion to follow one directive.

Codava National Council’s Stand

The Codava National Council (CNC), another influential organisation, is actively campaigning for a different approach. It has appealed to community members to record their identity as “Codava” not only in the caste and language sections but also in the religion category.

The CNC argues that such a move strengthens the recognition of the Kodava people as a distinct community, separate from broader religious categories. Their campaign stresses that cultural survival and legal recognition are possible only if the government officially documents Kodavas in all three columns as “Codava.”

Why Does It Matter?

Supporters of listing Kodava as a religion argue that the census is not just a statistical exercise but also a way of placing the community’s unique cultural reality before the government. Such recognition, they believe, could open doors to benefits like reservations and policy attention in the future.

Kaverappa clarified that even if “Kodava” is recorded under religion, everyday practices—such as temple worship, rituals, and Hindu influences—will continue unchanged. He also described the survey as the first step towards preparing for the upcoming central census, where authentic data will be crucial.

The Counterview: “We Are Hindus”

On the other side, several community leaders and organisations argue that leaders with ties to the BJP are especially vocal in this demand.

They emphasise that Kodava traditions have long been interwoven with Hindu customs. Former Napoklu Kodava Samaja president A Manu Muthappa pointed out that practices such as worship of Naga and Aiyappa deities, along with the celebration of festivals like Tula Sankramana and Puthari, are deeply rooted in Hindu culture.

District BJP president Ravi Kalappa and others have echoed this view, asking Kodavas to retain Hinduism as their religion in official records while continuing to list “Kodava” as their caste and language.

What Happens Next?

As of now, the Kodava community remains divided. Some believe asserting “Kodava” across all categories safeguards cultural identity, while others see listing Hinduism as religion as a way to maintain continuity with broader traditions.

Both sides, however, agree on one thing: the choice lies with individuals, and there should be no forced decision. With the caste census underway, it remains to be seen how Kodavas across Kodagu will respond to this sensitive identity question.

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