Telugu castes
Backward Castes in India Some castes are classified as backward (although some are considered as higher castes according to Hindu varna system) due to their financial, educational and/or political depression. They have government reservations to help uplift their status. They are predominantly artisans, small scale farmers and traders. Backward castes make up about 50% of the population. Now this article discussed about boya / boyar / Gangawaru (Gangavaru) / naidu / nayaka (origin was Andhara Pradesh and sifted to Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Other states in India or abroad) Warrior / Hunters
Nayak (title) Nayak, Nayaka, Nayakar, Nayakkar, Naik, Naiker, Naicker, Naickan, Naiken, Nayakkan, Naidu, Nayudu or Naidoo is a common title used by various caste and ethnic groups across India. They are all derivatives of the original Sanskrit Nayaka, meaning a leader. The community history of various groups that use this title differs from place to place.
Nayak or Nayaka [in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh]: is a title used by the Bedaru, Cheptegara, Charodi, Kannadiyan, Valmiki, Servegara, Siviyar, Toreya, Boyar (caste), gangawar, Palegar, Ramoshi, Vedan and Vokkaliga. Nayak and Naik [in Karnataka and Goa]: is a surname used by the Konkani speaking GSB and RSB community people. It is a title used by the Tulu speaking Nadavas or Bunts and their kannada speaking counterparts in adjoining Uttara Kannada district. Mogers in some parts of South Canara prefer the title Naiker instead of the caste title of Marakaleru. The title is also used by Kannada speaking people settled in the Malnad region of Karnataka. Naicker [in Tamil Nadu]: used by various castes such as Vanniyar Naicker, Tholuva Naicker (Tulava Naicker), boya naicker, gangawar naicker, Vettalakara Naicker, Thottai Naicker. It is also a title used by the Telugu speaking people who settled in the Tanjore Madura regions [9]. Thottia Naickers such as Rajakambalam Nayakar, Gollavar, Sillayar, Thokalavar and Tholuva Naicker use the title Naicker. Rajakambalam or Gollavar are found in Tiruppur District, Sathyamangalam and Gopichettipalayam of Erode District and in the Southern States of Tamil Nadu. It is also used by the Pallis, Irulas and Vedans. Naidu [in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu]: According to Edgar Thurston (Castes and Tribes of Southern India Vol. 5; p. 138) "Naidu" or "Nayudu" is a title used by several Telugu castes (in alphabetical order): Balija, Bestha, Boyar caste, Ekari, gangawar(boyar), Gavara, Golla, Kalingi, Kamma, Kapu, Mudirajus, and Velama. It is also used as a caste title by other communities such as the Odde, Tottiyan, Reddy, Telaga, Uppiliyan, Idiga and Valmiki. Nair [in Kerala]: is said to be the corruption of the word Nayak in Malayalam.[1][2][3] Naicker [in Kerala]: is a title used by the Jen Kurumbas (jungle folk) in Wynad. Naik [in Maharashtra and Goa]: is a kul (clan) of the Gabits who call themselves Konkani Marathas [4]. Naik or Naik-Gond [in Maharashtra]: They are agriculturists and agricultural labourers. Naik [in Goa and Konkan]: Satarkars and Naik castes performed rituals in hamlets. After the arrival of the Maratha tribe, they named both of them as Naiks and some of them formed a separate caste named Bhandari with toddy tapping as profession. Mundaris in some villages in Goa were also named Naik References
The cyclopædia of India and of Eastern and Southern Asia, Edward Balfour, 1885, p249
Naidu Naidu (also spelt Nayudu or Naidoo) is a title used by various social groups of the Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu states of India. It is also used in Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Orissa and Chattisgarh. It is a Telugu derivation of the Sanskrit Nayaka, meaning "protector" or "leader". The word Naidu is etymologically related to the Tamil Naicker, the Nair of Kerala, Marathi Naik and Nayaks (Pattanayak) in Orissa.And it is considered one of the upper caste in south india which they claim kshatriya according to the varna system The term Naidu is the caste name and the title of the Kapu caste(Telaga/Balija Naidu)of Andhra Pradesh which accounts for about 28% of the population of Andhra Pradesh. Nayaka (Naidu) was an honorary title that was used by the people belonging to the other Telugu castes of Ekari (Pala Ekari) Boyar(warrior), Kamma, Mudi Raju, Koppula/Polinati Velama,Ayyaraka,gangavar(Boyar) etc in Andhra Pradesh and other states. It was used as a title denoting a village or lineage headman. Medieval Andhra dynasties like the Vishnukundins and Chalukyas and the recent ones like the Vijayanagara Empire conferred the title Nayaka / Nayakudu to a commander or Danda-nayaka (Army Commander) or a leader of a band of soldiers. The Nayaka title was originally conferred upon Telugu communities. In medieval times, the Kakatiya and Vijayanagara Kingdoms had many prominent nayakas from various castes. During the expansion of Vijayanagar Empire, the Nayak title was conferred upon non-Telugu speaking communities who served in the same function in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. This title is also used by other communities in Andhra Pradesh, Orissa, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The Nayaka title was conferred upon warriors who received land along with the title Nayaka as a part of the Nayankarapuvaram system for services rendered to the court during the Kakatiya dynasty. Nayaka was one among approximately 25 titles used by the Kakatiyas to create a new political infrastructure to undercut the authority of heredity regional elites.[1] The Nayankara system was also used by the Vijayanagar empire [2] wherein land was granted to a Nayaka or Palayakarrar (Polygar) on condition that they would place their military service at the disposal of the king.[3] Many communities later began using the Naick or Naidu surname. Edgar Thurston (Castes and Tribes of Southern India Vol. 5; p. 138) noted that "Naidu" or "Nayudu" title was in use by several Telugu castes in colonial India (in alphabetical order): Balija, Bestha, Boyar(warrior) caste, Ekari, gangawar(Boyar), Gavara,Kalingi, Kamma, Kapu, Mudirajus, Velama, Odde, Tottiyan, Reddy, Telaga, Uppiliyan, Idiga and Valmiki.
Origins The Nayaka / Danda Nayaka term started being used during the Vishnukundina dynasty which ruled from the Krishna and Godavari deltas during the 3rd Century A.D. Little is known about the title usage prior to that. A more widespread usage of the term Nayaka can be traced to the expansion of the Western Chalukyas into Andhra country during the 7th Century. However, the most widespread usage of the term Nayak happened during the Vijayanagar rule. The word Naidu is used by the older writers in southern India in several senses, of which the following example given by Yule and Burnell may be cited: • It denoted a Commander or a Governor. • Native captain or headman. • Title of honor among Hindus in the Deccan. "The kings of deccan also have a custom when they will honor a man or recompence their service done, and raise him to dignity and honor. They give him the title of Nayak." -Linschoten • The general name of the Kings of Vijayanagar. Though originally not meant to be a heredity title, by modern times, the Naidu title had been inherited by many, although they no longer were governors, army commanders or tax collectors. Andhra Pradesh In Andhra Pradesh, the title is predominantly used by the Kapu caste (Balija Naidu/Gavara Naidu/Telaga Naidu/Kapu Naidu) though other castes like the kamma, pala ekari, Boyars,Koppula/Polinati Velamas, Kammas and Kalingas have begun using it of late. Tamil Nadu Many Telugu-speaking communities like Boyar, Gangawar Naidu, kamma Naidu, Baljia Naidu, Gavara naidu, vadugar, kapu, Gajulu use the title Naidu, whereas the title Naicker is used by both Tamils and Telugus. Boyar is the telugu-speaking warrior class, later involved in the construction work of forts, administratative buildings and palaces. There are sub-communities in the Boyar community, 'oddar/oddisa', or people who migrated from Orissa to give assistance in these professions, who are included in these castes. In these days, in Tamil Nadu, Kamma, Gavara, Balija, Boyars and Vadugars are called Naidu or Nayakars. In the Vijanagar Dynasty, Kammas, kapus, boyars and Balijas were warriors, landlords, administrators and governors for the Emperor or King. During the British period, they were called Palayakarargal. The Government of India and of Tamil Nadu includes many Naidu main and subcastes as either 'other backward class' or 'backward class'. Kerala In Kerala there are just about 5000 Naidu families spread all over the state. Their ancestors migrated around 200 years back from the Madurai region. Some families came from Tirunelveli region. They belong to Balija caste group. Diasporas Notable diasporic communities are found in South Africa [spelled Naidoo: Xavier Naidoo], Polynesia, mainly the South-western arc and eastern island chains. Notable Naidus • Sarojini Naidu - first Indian woman President of the Indian National Congress • Sri Krishna Devaraya - Maharajah • Leela Naidu, Savitri - Indian actress • C. K. Nayudu - Indian Cricketer • Janakiraman Naidu. The first person to develop acetoxy silicone sealant in Middle East, Africa, Indian sub continent, Central Asia and CIS Countries. • Vangaveeti Mohana Ranga -- Politician of Naidu • Konidela Chiranjeevi(Siva Shankara Vara Prasad)-Indian Actor • N Chandrababu Naidu - Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh • Pradesh Naidu - Architect of Many temples well known in the indian subcontinent • Gayathri Naidu - Heiress of over 10.5 bil. • Sunitha Santhanagopal Naidu - Opening of two schools, SRV and Nest for lower class and helpless children References 1. The political economy of craft production: crafting empire in South India, c. 1350-1650, by Carla Sinopoli, p.73 2. History of Tamil Nadu, 1565-1982, by K. Rajayyan, p.20-23. 3. Local government in the Vijayanagara Empire, by Venkata Ratnam, p.14.
History The Chitradurga Palaegar (Polygar) family was of the Beda, or Boya, caste and belonged to one of the hunting hill tribes. According to one tradition, three Boya families emigrated from Jadikal-durga, in the neighbourhood of Tirupati, and settled at Nirutadi, near Bramhasagara, at about 1475 AD. They are said to have belonged to the Kamageti family. The son and the grandson of one of these was named Hire Hanummappa Nayaka and Timmanna Nayaka, respectively. There were many battles in the reign of this Nayaka between Chitradurga, Harapanahalli, Rayadurga, and Bijapur, in all of which the Nayaka had splendid success.[2] Rayadurg and Kalyandurg are two important forts which were ruled by Boya Palaegars. The name Kalyandurg came from Boya Kalyanappa, who was a Palaegar in the 16th century. Rayadurg was originally a stronghold of Boya Palaegar, which was very turbulent during the Vijayanagar rule. Kalyandurg was under the rule of Sri Krishnadevaraya and was a part of Vijayanagar Empire.[citation needed] In about 1517, Chitradurga Fort was given by Vijayanagar ruler to a Boya chief. It became a tributary to Bijapur after fall of Vijayanagar. There were portraits of ‘A Boya of Rank’, a member of the royal caste (related to royal family) of Chitradurga Nayaks who was documented by Colin Mackenzie.[3] Other references
Statue of Lord Shiva in 'Boya' Attire Boya Temples 1. ' Vijay eswara Swami ' Temple - The Vijayeswara temple is set on the Indrakiladri hill near Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh. The installation of Vijayeswara is said to have been done by Arjuna to commemorate his victory with Lord Shiva in the form of 'Kirata' (hunter).[4] Boyas often appear in kakatiya-period inscriptions as the people who are entrusted with livestock endowed to temples, donating perpetual lamp Nanda deepa and as military chieftains. The meaning of Boya has changed considerably with the passage of time.[5] During the 7th century, various inscriptions from Southern India mention Boya-Brahmans in the Kondanaaru grant of Vishnuvardhana-II, dated 673 AD. The boyas organized themselves into a massive social entity by sanskritising themselves and calling a few members boya-brahmans. This is indicative of not only the attempt of the boyas to organise into a sociological and political unit but also attempting to extend further into the plains and come into contact with neighbouring groups. As result of this interaction they claimed some of the Brahmanical values in neighbouring society to have superimposed in their community.[6] Present day Boya / Boyar caste comes under OBC in Central List. In Tamil Nadu & Kerala as BC, Andhra Pradesh as BC ( Group 'A') and Karnataka as BC ( Category I ).[7] References 1. ^ Medieval Indian culture and political geography - K. Satyamurthy - Google Books 2. ^ Mysore: a gazetteer compiled for ... - B. L. Rice - Google Books 3. ^ Castes of mind: colonialism and the ... - Nicholas B. Dirks - Google Books 4. ^ Great Temples vijayawada,Draksharamam, tirupathi, Annavaram, Badrachalam, Srisailam, Shiridi,srikalahasthi,thousand pillar,kanipakam,basara,chilukuru balaji,mantralayam,birla ... 5. ^ South Indian Inscriptions - Volume 10 - Kakatiya Dynasty Inscriptions @ whatisindia.com 6. ^ Medieval Indian culture and ... - K. Satyamurthy - Google Books 7. ^ http://72.14.235.132/search?q=cache:VPWSQXYeOHcJ:www.du.ac.in/OBC-CENTER-LIST.pdf+boyar+coimbatore&cd=98&hl=en&ct=clnk&client=opera
Talari is a boyar caste title Talwar-Boya / Talari Boya / Taliari Boya are some of the boyar caste titles in use. Talari is also a surname among Boyar / Valmiki Nayakas who are a subsect of Mudiraja community of South India. Goddess Ankalamma or Ankamma is a popular diety of Cholas, Mudiraj, Erukalas, Valmiki Nayakas, etc.
Boya, Nayak, Naidu, Boya Talwar, Talari in Telugu country are Warriors / Hunters. Boya, Boyan, Boyar, Boya Naidu, Nayakar, Nayaka, Boya Palegar, Palaiyakkarar, Palegara, Talwar-Boya, Talari Boya, Taliari Boya are various boyar caste titles, which are in use. Boya Palaiyakkarar (Polygar) - who was to administrate their Palaiyams (territories) from their fortified centers. Their chief function was to collect taxes, maintain law and order, run the local judiciary, and maintain
The Chitradurga Paleyagar family was of the Beda or Boya caste and belonged to one of the hill tribes family who subsisted by hunting and tending cattle. The Chitradurga Fort, defined by walls of huge granite blocks, rises above the town. A series of three gates leads into the irregular inner zone, strewn with striking granite boulders. There are several small temples here, as well as a number of ceremonial gateways erected by the Bedas. The platforms and pavilions within the compound of the Sampige Siddheshvara Temple mark the spot where the Bedas were crowned. The remains of rubble and mudbuilt granaries and residences, and a large circular well can be seen nearby.
The Bedas are the Bedars and the Bedars are Vedars. While Vedars are a subcaste of Tamil Muthuraja community, the same people who are known as Valmikis are a subcaste of Telugu Mudiraj community today.
Vetans = Vedars = the people of Kannappa Kula. Beda = Bedar = Vedar = Valmiki = Nayaka
It is well known fact that the Mudiraj people worship Goddess Ankamma. There is one Ankali mutt near Chitradurga. Nestling amongst a group of rugged hills, west of Chitradurga, this mutt is known for its subterranean chambers. Near the Panchalinga cave (Wonder cave) entrance, is an inscription dated 1286 A.D. executed in the reign of the Hoysala King Narasimha III. This stronly proves that these Valmiki Nayakas and Mudiraj are one and the same. This region of Tirupati and Srikalahasti is known to be the home land of Kalabhras ( the ancestors of Muthurajas ) who inveded Chola, Chera, and Pandya kingdoms. These valmikis could be the descendants of kalabhras who are in turn are known as branch of Kalachuris of Central India.
In Karnataka, the Valmiki community is also called as Nayaka, ,Beda,Talavara. All these sections belong to VALMIKI community only. The Valmiki people in Karnataka are in ST category. From history of Karnataka, it can be seen that the Valmiki people were rulers of some places such as Chitradurga, Surpur, Keladi, etc. Chitradurga Nayaka kingdom and Keladi Nayaka kingdom were well known in Deccan India.
The Valmiki community is also called as NAYAKA in Karnataka. There are two sub-castes of Nayaka :
1). Ura Nayaka : The valmiki people living in cities are called as Ura Nayaka in Chitradurg dist. 2). Myasa Nayaka : The valmiki people living in villages and forests are called as Myasa Nayaka. The term Nayaka means leader. The Nayaka community has three sub-castes namely Valmiki, Beda and Talavara. Valmiki claim direct descent from Valmiki, the author of Ramayana. Bedas practice hunting. Talavars function as messengers as well as village watchmen.NAIKADA, NAYAKA Popularly known as Palegar, Beda, Valmiki, Ramoshi Parivara etc., they are concentrated in the Chitradurga, Shimoga, Bellary and Tumkur.
Ganga were Muttarasas. Some of them used Talavara & Nayaka titles. Savanadurga and Magadi were ruled by the representative (Viceroy) of the Penukonda kings. The last viceroy was Samji Raya, who died without any successor. After his death, Talavara Ganga Nayaka of Gudemaranahalli took over the forts of Savanadurga and Magadi. At the request of the Penukonda Emperor, Kempe Gowda II conquered Savanadurga and Magadi and added them to the territories of Bengalooru. Ganga Naik / Gangawaru - was the title given for Nayaks of Ganga Dynasty.
In Andhra region, it is observed that Talavar or Talari used to issue coins. It was only in the Andhra region that coins came to be issued by high officials of the ruling dynasty, such as Senapathi, Talavara, Maharathi and Mahagramika, which raises an important question whether the authority to issue coins was decentralized or delegated in those times.
Talwar / Taliari / Talari - was name of Soldiers , Guards and Revenue collectors. For village policing, carrying the land revenue to treasury headquarters, the workers had to bear arms, so called 'Talwar' meaning sword.
Boya "Throughout the hills," Buchanan writes, "northward from Capaladurga, are many cultivated spots, in which, during Tippoo's government, were settled many Baydaru or hunters, who received twelve pagodas a year, and served as irregular troops whenever required. Being accustomed to pursue tigers and deer in the woods, they were excellent marksmen with their match-locks, and indefatigable in following their prey; which, in the time of war, was the life and property of every helpless creature that came in their way. During the wars of Hyder and his son, these men were chief instruments in the terrible depredations committed in the lower Carnatic. They were also frequently employed with success against the Poligars (feudal chiefs), whose followers were of a similar description.
In the Madras Census Report, 1901, it is stated that the two main divisions of Boyas are called also Pedda (big) and Chainna (small) respectively, and, according to another account, the caste has four endogamous sections, Pedda, Chinna, and Myasa. Sadaru is the name of a subdivision of Lingayats, found mainly in the Bellary and Anantapur districts, where they are largely engaged in cultivation. Some Bedars who live amidst those Lingayats call themselves Sadaru. According to the Manual of the North Arcot district, the Boyas are a "Telugu hunting caste, chiefly found above the ghats. Many of the Poligars of that part of the country used to belong to the caste, and proved themselves so lawless that they were dispossessed. Now they are usually cultivators. They have several divisions, the chief of which are the Mulki Boyas and the Pala Boyas, who cannot intermarry. ,br> " According to the Mysore Census Reports, 1891 and 1901, "the Bedas have two distinct divisions, the Kannada and Telugu, and own some twenty sub-divisions, of which the following are the chief: Halu, Machi or Myasa, Nayaka, Pallegar, Barika, Kannaiyyanajati, and Kirataka. The Machi or Myasa Bedas comprise a distinct sub-division, also called the Chunchus. They live mostly in hills, and outside inhabited places in temporary huts.
Rayadurg and Kalyandurg are the two important forts which were ruled by Boya Palegars. The name Kalyandurg came from Boya Kalyanappa, who was a Polygar in the 16th Century. Rayadurg was originally a stronghold of Boyar palegar who were very turbulent during the Vijayanagar rule. Kalyandurg was under the rule of Sri Krishnadevaraya and was a part of Vijayanagara Empire. NAYAKWADI Nayakwadi is one of the surnames that belongs to Telugu Mudiraj community. It seems that Nayakwai is a village and also a surname of the people from Karnataka.
The Boya titles was split into Berad, Bedar, Nayak, Talwar, Nayakwadi, Nayakar, Valmiki nayak, Palegar etc. each having distinctive meaning. Nayakwadi - was the title of 'Killedar'. Those protecting outer walls of forts were called 'Nayakvadi. While Valmikis are a susect of Telugu Mudirajas, the Vetans / Vettuvas ( Bedars ) are a subsect of Tamil Muthurajas. For more details about Nayaka Kingdoms, see for Web Page "KINGDOMS" in this website.
Naikwadi surname is seen prevelent among Maharastrian - Hindu - kolis also. Some sections of Mudiraj people are known as the people of kolis migrated into South India. This surname Nayakawadi stands as a testimony to this fact of link between kolis amd Mudiraj.
Nayakwadi surname also exists among Indian Muslims. The Naikwadis were probably Hindus from Mysore, once upon a time chose to call themselves Pathans. These Naikwadis are believed to be descendants of the soldiers of Tipu who during the disturbances that followed his overthrow settled in the northern districts (Karnatak). Originally Hindus, they are said to have been converted and named by Haider Nai and hence they are called Nayakwadis.Some of them have leanings towards the Wahabi faith. Tadvis are Bhils converted by Aurangzeb. Bhangis are both descendants of converts and others who have lately come from North India. <
Nayakwadi seems to be one of the surnames of Mali community of Maharahtra also . Malis are well known as specialist cultivators.
Boyar : A boyar, also spelled boya (meaning Hunter) is the name of a caste. A leader of a group or Head of Territory. Boya is called as Naidu. The Boyar community constitute the Non-orthodox Kshatriya or Warrior class of India. They are all believed to have originated from an ancient people called Kirata. Boyas or Bedars were none other than Vanaras of Kishkinta kingdom of Ramayana times in South India. These were the vanara warriors who were controlled by Sri Rama in the war against Demon Ravana of Srilanka to rescue Sita. Boya and Valmiki are the names in vogue. Boya consider themselves as descendents of 'Valmiki' a Sanskrit writer.The most famous Kiratas in Hinduism are the Kiratra avatar of Shiva, Lord Buddha and sage Valmiki, writer of the Ramayana.
Boya caste corresponds to Kiratas of Sanskrit writers, the Warriors, Hunters and Mountaineers. As the names indicate, they belonged to one of the hill tribes who subsisted by hunting and tending cattle. Gaikwads, Kurubas and Yadavas too originally belonged to this group. In Manu's Dharmashastra they are mentioned as Vratya (Non-Orthodox) Kshatriyas, which meant that they were considered to be advanced in civilization and warfare, but outside the ambit of Brahminical influence. It is speculated that the term is a Sanskritization of a Sino-Tibetan tribal name, like that of Kirant or Kiranti of eastern Nepal. Mythology gives an indication of their geographical position of Kirata kingdom near Nepal and Bhutan. In the Mahabharata, Bhima meets the Kiratas to the east of Videha, where his son Ghatotkacha is born; and in general the dwellers of the Himalayas, especially the eastern Himalayas, were called Kiratas. Ghatotkacha of Mahabharata fame (Son of Bhima) was a Kirata Chieftain.
The Boya warriors migrated from Indus valley after saraswathi river dried up and invaded several mountainous regions in south-eastern peninsula. The original population of Boyas was mixed with various linguistic groups. These Boya warriors served as military regiment and chiefs between 10th century to 15th century in Chalukya, Chola, Vijayanagar and Hoysala empires. In India Boyas were mainly found in South India as Hindu Telugu speaking community as non-orthodox Kshatriyas. Their population concentrated mainly in the Andhra-Orissa region and later in all southern states. Eastern Chalukyan empire's court was essentially a Republic of Badami, and the administrative subdivisions were known as 'Boya-Kottams'. Boya-kottams existed across southern states right from 5th century according to Kakatiya inscriptions. Boya-kottams held assignments of land or revenue in different villages. Chola-Chalukyas used titles 'Udayar' or 'Odeyar' for chieftains at certain periods of time which included Boya Chieftains.
King Pratapa Rudra's Kakatiya kingdom was ably served by seventy five chieftains called Nayaks. The Nayaks who belonged to various agrarian castes such as Boyar, Velama, Kamma, Reddy, Telaga, Balija, etc. were divided by mutual jealousy and rivalry but they are valiant cousins. Boyar Gudi at Aihole-Pattadakal (South East of the Village) was built in 14th Century for the Boyar community worship. Many more temples were constructed in Andhra-Orissa region by Boya Chieftains.
The Chitradurga Paleyagar family was of the Beda or Boya caste and belonged to one of the hill tribes family who subsisted by hunting. According to one tradition, it appears that three Boya families emigrated from Jadikal-durga, in the neighbourhood of Tirupati, and settled at Nirutadi near Bramhasagara about 1475. They are said to have belonged to the Kamageti family and Valmiki gotra. The son and the grand�son of one of these, named Hire Hanummappa Nayaka and Timmanna Nayaka respectively. There were many battles in the reign of this Nayaka between Chitradurga and Harapanahalli, Rayadurga and Bijapur in all of which the Nayaka had splendid success.
Boyas or Bedars were none other than Vanaras of Kishkinta kingdom of Ramayana in South India. They were the Vanara warriors who were controlled by Sri Rama in the war against Demon Ravana of Srilanka to rescue Sita. Boya and Valmiki are the names in vogue. Boya consider themselves as sons of sardars and descendents of Valmiki.
Boyars migrated from Indo-Iran around 5th century BCE to Indian sub-continent and later 9th century to Turkey and Romania. Having Dravidian roots came from indus valley invaded south region .Boyars are mainly found in South India as Hindu Telugu speaking community and non-orthodox kshatriyas. Boyars arrived to Andhra - Orissa region during Indo-Aryan migration around 5th century BCE.
Boyar warriors served as military regiment between 10th century to 15th century in Chalukya, Chola, Vijayanagar and Hoysala empires. The Musunuri Nayaks were Boyars and Kamma warrior chieftains in the Kakatiya army, who regained Andhra in 1326 from the Delhi Sultanate in the aftermath of the Kakatiya defeat. King Pratapa Rudra's Kakatiya kingdom was ably served by seventy five chieftains called Nayaks. The Nayaks who belonged to various agrarian castes such as Boyar, Velama, Kamma, Reddy, Telaga, Balija, etc. were divided by mutual jealousy and rivalry but they are valiant cousins.
Rayadurg and Kalyandurg are the two important forts which were ruled by Boya Palegars. The name Kalyandurg came from Kalyanappa, who was a Polygar in the 16th Century. Rayadurg was originally a stronghold of Boyar palegar who were very turbulent during the Vijayanagar rule. Kalyandurg was under the rule of Sri Krishnadevaraya and was a part of Vijayanagara Empire.
Boya Palaiyakkarar (Polygar) who was to administrate their Palaiyams (territories) from their Fortified centers. Their chief function was to collect taxes, maintain law and order, run the local judiciary, and maintain a battalion of troops for the Nayak.
Boya is considered as oldest caste and origin among many castes in India . Boyars are non-pure Kshatriyas they are called as ' Boya ' in Andhra Pradesh ' Boyar ' in Tamil nadu and in Karnataka as ' Bhovi '. Boya, Boyar, Boyi, Bhovi are the hereditary and clan title. Boyar caste consists many gotras. Boyas worship Tirupati Lord Venkat Ramana, Mariamman, Shiva, Subramanya, etc. A lost link between Boyars of India and Europe. There was a great migration in Indus valley in 5th BCE boyar warrior caste a Kshatriya community was split into many groups took different direction and invaded many regions. By and large there are more similarities in culture and origin . Temple inscription and Religious texts also denotes about boyar caste and origin. so we conclude that Boyars are distant cousins of East asia and Russia.
A lost link between Boyars of India and Europe. There was a great migration in Indus valley in 5th BCE boyar warrior caste a Kshatriya community was split into many groups took different direction and invaded many regions. By and large there are more similarities in culture and origin . Temple inscription and Religious texts also denotes about boyar caste and origin. so we conclude that Boyars are distant cousins of East asia and Russia.
BHAKTA KANNAPPA & VETTUVAS & BEDARS :
Kannappa Kula is a subcaste of Muthurajas in Tamilnadu and the tribal people of Boya Kannappa of Srikalahasti region of Andhra Pradesh. These people are also known as Vettuva Goundan or Vettuva Gounder in Tamilnadu.
Vettuva Goundan or Vettuva Gounder is an endogamous social group or caste of indigenous tribal origin and are a Tamil speaking people in the Erode area of West Tamil Nadu state.
Vettuva Gounders are from agricultural family backround like other gounders. Vettuva gounder's ancestors from the devotional legend of Siva bhakta Kannappan. They are from Khalhasti and moved from there to south. The most pocket of people are located in Erode, Madurai, Coimbatore, Bhavanishakar and also near Thirunelveli.
In Tamil language the word Vettuvan or Vetan means a hunter. The word is derived from the noun Vettu or to cut. Many hunter gatherer tribes across Tamil nadu and neighboring Kerala are still referred to as Vetan or Vetar. Vettuva Pulayar is a name of a significant caste in Kerala. This term is etymologically related to Sinhalese Vedda and Telugu Bedda for primitive tribes.
Vettuvas are of Telugu origin from Srikalahasti region of Andhra Pradesh. In Telugu Veta means hunting. The word Vetan and Vetar in Tamil are derived from Veta.
Veta = Hunting Veta => Veta Gaadu = Hunter (singular) Veta => Veta Vaaru => Veta Vaandru = Hunters (Plural) Veta => Vetan => Vedan = Hunter Veta => Vetar => Vedar => Bedar = Hunter Veta Vaandru => Vetavaanru => Vetavaan => Vettuvan = Hunter Veta Vaandru => Vetavaanru => Vetavaar => Vettuvar = Hunter Vettuvan => Vettuvar => Vettuva = Hunter
Although they are historically considered to be native to the region some consider them to be Vadugans or northerners meaning immigrants from further north in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. Today they are found in all walks of life and rarely engaged in hunter gatherer activities.
Apparently the clan divisions between a settled group commonly known as Vellala Gounder and Vettuva Gounder show similarities showing an assimilation of hunting groups into settled agricultural groups[citation needed]. The historical war between Vellala Gounder and Vettuvas is mentioned in the mythical local Annamar-Appachimar story where the latter were defeated.
Karnataka : The Bedars of Karnataka and Maharastra are an extended branch of Valmikis ( Kannappa kula = Vettuvas) of Andhra Pradesh. The word Bedar is derived from telugu word Veta.
Veta (Telugu) = Hunting Veta => Vetan => Vedan => Vedar => Bedar => Bedara = Hunter
Boya Kannapa is known as Bedara Kannappa in Karnataka. The Bedars were mostly Boya poligars who looked after village / palayam administration under Vijayanager empire in South India. This system of village level administration was a well established one deep rooted Rayalaseema, parts of Karnataka,and Tamilnadu which formed a major part of Vijayanagar kingdom.
Palayam was a group of villages which was under administrative control of Palayakar / palayakarar / poligar. Palayam administration is just parallel to that of Mutha system of administration.
Mutha => Palayam
Muthas were administered by Mutharachas who inherit their rights of administration by hirarchy of the family tree. In case of Palayam system of administration, the palayakars were appointed by the king at his sweet will but generally they too continue on hirachy basis as long as king was pleased with them.
Palayakars <=> bedars <=> mutharachas
The Nayakas were also called Bedars. The bedars were also known as Beydurs. Some times they are also known as Berads.
The bedars might be a gradual corrupted form for �Boya Doras�. The Bhills of North India are known as Boyas in Telugu speaking areas Andhra Pradesh. It is widely accepted that Bhils are of Telugu origin due to the fact bhil means villu and villu means bow used by archers.
Dora = Lord = Chief (singular) Doras = Lords = Chiefs (plural) Boya Doras=> Boydoras => Beydoras => Beydurs => bedars
The fall of Vijayanagara empire caused the emergence of splinter states in South India and Deccan. These states were collectively known as Poligars (Palegars). They dominated the political scenario of the South India. These Poligar states were founded by the warrior tribes of South India.
One such Poligar state known as Surapura Samsthana was founded by the Bedars and ruled between 1650 and 1858 AD in Sagara-nadu or Shorapur Doab (Gulbarga Dist. Karnataka).
Raidurga was originally a stronghold of 'Bedars' ('Boya Palegars') who were very turbulent during the Vijayanagar rule. The emperor deputed an officer driving them out and ruled place himself and the hill was thus called "Bhupatirayakonda".
After the battle of 'Rakshasa Tangadi', the Bedars regained the place, but were again driven out after some time by 'Koneti Nayak'. His son 'Venkatapathi Nayak' who had differences with the 'Palegar' of Chittaldurg greatly strengthened the fortifications. Tipu captured the fort and made it a part of his Gooty province.
The Berads of Sagar
The region between between the Krishna and Bhima Rivers is hilly and forested and is called Malnad. From Mysore north through the Malnad region and all the way to Bijapur were lands colonized by the Berads�a race of aboriginal Kanarese belonging to the lowest Dhed caste on account of their life style.
Many of them were Lingayets or Vaishnavs and they had no dietary restrictions. They eat mutton, beef, pork, and fowl with gusto and drank to excess. Their race name means �hunter� in Kanarese and they also indulged in cattle-lifting and other crimes. Alternatively called Bedars/Beydurs these people were dark, muscular, and of middle height; with round faces, thin lips, and frizzled hair. A popular story ran that the Mughal historians were so impressed by their fighting qualities that they changed the name Berad to Be-dar, meaning fearless.
Dar = fear Be-dar = fearless
For the purpose of hunting and war the Bedars had adopted the matchlock and had become adept in the use of firearm. Their tribal organization�where headmen controlled different bands of younger fighters�ensured discipline and unity in their ranks. Not surprisingly they had become the steadiest and most accurate musketeers in 17th century South India. Another singular name used for them was kala-piadas or black foot-musketeers. Later on these same Berads formed the bulk of Tipu Sultan�s French-led infantry. The Bedar King of Sagar used the title Nayak and is known in Persian histories as Pam Nayak.
Kala = black Paidal= > paidas = foot
Bedras were known as a thieving caste that assisted in the plundering of Vijayanagar after the battle of Talikota. These Naikdas or Nayakas are to be found not only in the districts of Mysore but also in Maharashtra and Rajasthan.
Ramoshis :
Today's Ramoshi was called Boya, Berad and Vedan. In Andhra it was called Boya and in Karnataka and Tamilnadu it was called Berad and Bedar. Ramoshis of Maharashtra have come from mostly Karnataka and their surnames are same as Berad-Ramoshi of Karnataka. Their original language is sothern. They first got settled in Karnataka and later migrated to Maharashtra. Word 'Bhuyal' in Berad's language seems to have originated from Boya. though it is known in Maharashtra as Ramoshi-Berad, the name 'Ramoshi' is not older than 100-200 years.
The British declared the Berad-Ramoshis of Maharastra a criminal tribe. Almost every fort of Shivaji had a settlement of Berad-Ramoshi warriors at its foothills? And that 50 Ramoshis captured Fort Purandhar near Pune defeating the Mughals?
The Berad-Ramoshis, who live mostly in south Maharashtra and in Karnataka where they are known as Beydurs.
One of the most interesting stories in the book concerns the disarming of the Berads of Halgali, near Mudhol in Karnataka, in November 1857.
During the first war of Independence, the British made it mandatory for people to surrender their arms. Lt-Col. G.B. Settunkar was entrusted with the task of implementing the order in south Maharashtra and north Karnataka. The Berads from Halgali village in Mudhol refused to surrender their arms.
Settunkar and his colleagues marched to Halgali. For almost two days the entire village fought along with the Berads and stopped the army from entering the village. As a last resort, the army set ablaze the village by throwing in fireballs but the Berads did not give up. In the end, 19 of them were captured by the British and killed.
The Berad-Ramoshi king of Shorapur in Gulburga district of Karnatak - Shorapur kingdom was founded in 1636 by Gaddipida Nayak. The British annexed it in 1858, after king Venkatappa Nayak was found dead in mysterious circumstances. The British said that it was a suicide, but is widely believed that he was shot dead by British.
The story of the Battle of Wagengere (Wakinkheda), as it is known now in Maharashtra) in February 1705 - It was the last battle of Aurangzeb and it is believed that the families of Maratha generals, who were fighting the Mughals since the death of Shivaji in 1680, were sheltered by the king of Beydur, Venkatappa Naik IV.
The brave Naiks surrendered only after they learnt that the families of the Marathas were given a safe passage out of the Wakinkheda fort. The royal family still preserves a letter written by Aurangzeb to the king of Shorapur in 1658 when he took over the reins of the Mughal empire.
The inhabitants in the South of the River Krishna �whether Telegus, Berads, or Purbias�did impact the evolution of infantry warfare. The leaders were mostly regional landowners and military commanders.
A very widespread conspiracy was attempted in the Southern Mahratta districts of the Bombay presidency. The young Rajah of Shorapoor was deeply implicated in this treason and Captain Campbell's life being threatened. A portion of the contingent force stationed at Lingsoogoor, under Captain Wyndham , went to his assistance. This was treacherously attacked on February 7, 1858, by the rajah's tribe of Beydurs, with some Arabs and Rohillas.
History of Ramoshis
In 1871 the British Government declared some tribes as "Criminal". The established society did ot oppose this, contrararily they seem to have liked it. Some clauses were:
Narveer Umaji Naik, in a letter of 1828, mentions as Ranvasi addressed to Ramoshis. Those days they were staying in hills and doing the job of protection of villages and crops in fields.
Ramoshi might be a gradual corrupted form of the word Ram Vasi. Ram = Sri Rama of Valmiky Ramayana Vasi = controlled Rama + vasi => Ramvasi => Ramosi => Ramoshi = Vanara warriors controlled Sri Rama
Boyas or Bedars were non other than Vanaras of Kishkinda kingdom of Ramayana times in South India. These were the vanara warriors who were controlled by Sri Rama in the war against Demon Ravana of Srilanka to recue Sita
2. Andhra Pradesh -- Boya, Dorabiddu and Valmiki are the names in vogue. Dorabiddu means sons of sardars. Boya consider themselves as sons of sardars and descendents of Valmiki.
Dorabiddu = Dora + Biddu Dora = Lord = Chief =head of tribe Biddu = son Biddadu => Bidda => Biddu =son Dorabiddu = sons of chief = sons of sardar
Valmiki was a bhill. Bhills are known as Boyas in Andhra Pradesh. Bhill stans for Villu. Villu meand Bow. The bhill means great archer. Ekalavya who proved to be superior in the skills of archery was also a bhill . Sri Krishna killed Ekalavya when the later attacked Dwaraka.
3. Tamilnadu -- Name in vogue is 'Vedan'.
4. Karnataka -- Names Berad and Bedar are in vogue. Bedar was word used by Muslims either to show the dauntless quality or may be inability to pronounce properly. Muslim books use word Bedar.
The names are Berad, Bedar, Nayak, Talwar, Nayavadi, Naykar, Valmiki, Palegar etc. each having distinctive meaning.
1. Nayak and Nayakar -- During Kakatiya and Vijayanagar rules in Andhra, a head of a region was called Nayak, and traditional 'vatandars' were called Naykar. Akin to Deshmukh and Desais in Maharashtra, were Palegar and Naykars. Many Berads became Palegar on their own bravery. Nayak in Teugu means Ownner or Head or leader. May be this is origin of word.
2. Naykvadi was the title of Killedar. Those protecting outer walls of fortes were called Nayakvadi.
3. Talwar was name one doing work of village watchman or revenue work. For villege policing, carrying the land revenue to treasury headquarters, the workers had to bear arms, so called Talwar meaning sword.
Religious customs of Berad-Ramoshis
1. Devata and kulswami -- Ramoshis of Maharashtra worship Khandoba as 'kulswami'. Also worship Mariaai, kalubai, janaai, firanjaai, tukaai, bhairoba etc., and also Yellamma.
Berads of Karnataka worship Mallikarjuna, Mauti, Vekatesh as main deities and also worship Yellamma.
Boyas worship Tirupati Venkat Ramana, Mariamma, Kanathrathan etc. Most of Berads are Shaivaites. They worship Shiva and engage Jangam or Lingayat Swami for religious functions.
2. Devak (Totems) -- Every kula has separate totem. No marriages take place within same totem though surnames may be different. They include pan-kanis, vasan-vel, surya-ful, umbar, jambhul etc.
3. Caste Panchayat of Berad Ramoshis -- The head is called Naik in Maharashtra and well respected. Previously they dealt with all disputes. In Karnataka he is called Nayak or Kahimani and Head of Boyas is called Naidu, Doraa or Sinhasan Boya. Their word is final and punishments differed, fine, feast to excommunication.
4. Wedding / Barase / Marmik -- Lingayat or Jangam is required. Sometimes Brahmin does it. Remarriages and widow marriages are allowed. Groom pays to bride's father some teej/dej/tyaj. There WAS no dowry system.
5. Barase and pachavi -- Child is named on 13th day. 'ghugarya' are distributed. On 5th day 'pachava chi puja' is performed. This time 'satwai' is worshiped. Child is named on twelth or twentyfirst day.
6. Funeral rites -- Burial was in vogue. Somewhere they cremate. On 3rd or 7th or 12th day they do 'mati lotne'. 'uttar karya vidhi' is performed that time.
At the burial place, the stones are aranged, gulal is sprinkled. On 3rd day flowers and 'naivadya' is offered.
History of Berads
The original man was Guh. According to Rajguru of Shorapur princely state, Berads come from Tamilnadu migrating to Karnatake during Vijaynagar rule. Names of 14 ancestors are known to him but not whereabouts. The last was 'goshti pid nayaka', a contemporary of Shivaji Maharaj. This means the history dates back to 800 years from Shivaji's known date of 1630. Epigraphs of 8th to 11th century mention 'Bed-Beda', are they for the community?
During Vijaynagar rule, these Nayak kings were assigned duty of protecting province of Tungabhadra. After of fall of Vijaynagar, the kings of Shorpur became independant. They only came under Bijapur court for name sake. But the Bijapur court was always afraid of Berad Nayak Kings.
Later, during Maratha - Moghul conflict, Nayak kings played important role. After fall of Sambhaji and migration of Rajaram to Jinji, Moghu-Maratha conflict spread from Narmada to Tamilnadu and from east to west coast. Moghul Emperors realized they were fighting with a hurt identity in 1695. But it was not possible to turn back. During this conflict, Berad Nayaks played a delicate and important role. The families of all important Maratha sardars and their treasury was in Vagana-gera (or Wakin-kheda), the capital of these Nayak kings. Therefore, Aurangjeb had to fight his last battle of his life against Berad Nayaks of Vagana-gera during 1705 - 06.
Struggle against the British
Inumerable Berads sacrificed their lives in uprisings against the British. History knows very few names. The important are:
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BOYA KANNAPPA Aliases: Kannappa Nayanar is also known as Boya Tinnadu, Thinnappan, Tinnappan, Thinnan, Kannappan, Kannappa Nayanar or Nayanmar, Kannan, Bhakta Kannappan, Boya Kannappa, Bedara Kannappa, Dheeran, Kannabeswara
• Shaivam.org: Kannappa Nayanar • Srividya.org: Kannappa Nayanar
Backward Castes in India Some castes are classified as backward (although some are considered as higher castes according to Hindu varna system) due to their financial, educational and/or political depression. They have government reservations to help uplift their status. They are predominantly artisans, small scale farmers and traders. Backward castes make up about 50% of the population. Now this article discussed about boya / boyar / Gangawaru (Gangavaru) / naidu / nayaka (origin was Andhara Pradesh and sifted to Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Other states in India or abroad) Warrior / Hunters
Boyar caste / Boya Boya / Nayak / Naidu Boya Talwar/ TalariReferences: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Telugu_castes http://www.vepachedu.org/caste.htm http://ncbc.nic.in/backward-classes/ap.html http://ncbc.nic.in/backward-classes/ap.html%7CNI
Nayak (title) Nayak, Nayaka, Nayakar, Nayakkar, Naik, Naiker, Naicker, Naickan, Naiken, Nayakkan, Naidu, Nayudu or Naidoo is a common title used by various caste and ethnic groups across India. They are all derivatives of the original Sanskrit Nayaka, meaning a leader. The community history of various groups that use this title differs from place to place.
Nayak or Nayaka [in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh]: is a title used by the Bedaru, Cheptegara, Charodi, Kannadiyan, Valmiki, Servegara, Siviyar, Toreya, Boyar (caste), gangawar, Palegar, Ramoshi, Vedan and Vokkaliga. Nayak and Naik [in Karnataka and Goa]: is a surname used by the Konkani speaking GSB and RSB community people. It is a title used by the Tulu speaking Nadavas or Bunts and their kannada speaking counterparts in adjoining Uttara Kannada district. Mogers in some parts of South Canara prefer the title Naiker instead of the caste title of Marakaleru. The title is also used by Kannada speaking people settled in the Malnad region of Karnataka. Naicker [in Tamil Nadu]: used by various castes such as Vanniyar Naicker, Tholuva Naicker (Tulava Naicker), boya naicker, gangawar naicker, Vettalakara Naicker, Thottai Naicker. It is also a title used by the Telugu speaking people who settled in the Tanjore Madura regions [9]. Thottia Naickers such as Rajakambalam Nayakar, Gollavar, Sillayar, Thokalavar and Tholuva Naicker use the title Naicker. Rajakambalam or Gollavar are found in Tiruppur District, Sathyamangalam and Gopichettipalayam of Erode District and in the Southern States of Tamil Nadu. It is also used by the Pallis, Irulas and Vedans. Naidu [in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu]: According to Edgar Thurston (Castes and Tribes of Southern India Vol. 5; p. 138) "Naidu" or "Nayudu" is a title used by several Telugu castes (in alphabetical order): Balija, Bestha, Boyar caste, Ekari, gangawar(boyar), Gavara, Golla, Kalingi, Kamma, Kapu, Mudirajus, and Velama. It is also used as a caste title by other communities such as the Odde, Tottiyan, Reddy, Telaga, Uppiliyan, Idiga and Valmiki. Nair [in Kerala]: is said to be the corruption of the word Nayak in Malayalam.[1][2][3] Naicker [in Kerala]: is a title used by the Jen Kurumbas (jungle folk) in Wynad. Naik [in Maharashtra and Goa]: is a kul (clan) of the Gabits who call themselves Konkani Marathas [4]. Naik or Naik-Gond [in Maharashtra]: They are agriculturists and agricultural labourers. Naik [in Goa and Konkan]: Satarkars and Naik castes performed rituals in hamlets. After the arrival of the Maratha tribe, they named both of them as Naiks and some of them formed a separate caste named Bhandari with toddy tapping as profession. Mundaris in some villages in Goa were also named Naik References
P. V. Balakrishnan (1981). Matrilineal System in Malabar. p. 27.Madras (Presidency) (1885). Manual of the Administration of the Madras Presidency. p. 100.
The cyclopædia of India and of Eastern and Southern Asia, Edward Balfour, 1885, p249
http://books.google.co.in/books?id=cqAlHNTOWJgC&pg=PA107&lpg=PA107&dq=Sati+was+formerly+very+common+in+this+caste+and+two+caste+goddess+,+Jakkamma+and+Bommayya+are+deifications&source=bl&ots=OVzZjLDMXO&sig=ZtVk6Lpyr-Q3OR-13_9lHGkFO4k&hl=en&sa=X&ei=BLj8TonLL8rMrQelmJzWDw&ved=0CB0Q6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=tottiyan&f=false http://nfwa-kerala.com/ABOUT.HTM
[1] P. V. Balakrishnan (1981). Matrilineal System in Malabar, 27. [2] Madras (Presidency) (1885). Manual of the Administration of the Madras Presidency. [3] Jains in the World (John E Cort) [4] The Tribes and Castes of Bombay (Reginald Edward Enthoven) [5] Rethinking India's Oral and Classical Epics (Alf Hiltebeitel) [6][8] The Tribes and Castes of the Central Provinces of India (R V Russell and R.B.H. Lai) [7] Removal of Untouchability (Vimal P. Shah) [9] A Study of the Political, Administrative, and Social Structure of the Kandyan Kingdom of Ceylon (Lorna Srimathie Dewaraja) [10] The Tribes and Castes of the Central Provinces of India (R.V.Russell) [11] At the Feet of the Goddess (Lynn Foulston) [12] Castes and Tribes of Southern India, Vol. 5; p. 138 (Edgar Thurston) [13] The Castes and Tribes of Southern India (Edgar Thurston) [14] Balijakula Charithra(Kante Narayana Desai) [15] Hindus (Julius Lipner) [16] The Cultural History of Goa from 10000 B.C.-1352 A.D (Anant Ramkrishna Sinai Dhume)
Naidu Naidu (also spelt Nayudu or Naidoo) is a title used by various social groups of the Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu states of India. It is also used in Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Orissa and Chattisgarh. It is a Telugu derivation of the Sanskrit Nayaka, meaning "protector" or "leader". The word Naidu is etymologically related to the Tamil Naicker, the Nair of Kerala, Marathi Naik and Nayaks (Pattanayak) in Orissa.And it is considered one of the upper caste in south india which they claim kshatriya according to the varna system The term Naidu is the caste name and the title of the Kapu caste(Telaga/Balija Naidu)of Andhra Pradesh which accounts for about 28% of the population of Andhra Pradesh. Nayaka (Naidu) was an honorary title that was used by the people belonging to the other Telugu castes of Ekari (Pala Ekari) Boyar(warrior), Kamma, Mudi Raju, Koppula/Polinati Velama,Ayyaraka,gangavar(Boyar) etc in Andhra Pradesh and other states. It was used as a title denoting a village or lineage headman. Medieval Andhra dynasties like the Vishnukundins and Chalukyas and the recent ones like the Vijayanagara Empire conferred the title Nayaka / Nayakudu to a commander or Danda-nayaka (Army Commander) or a leader of a band of soldiers. The Nayaka title was originally conferred upon Telugu communities. In medieval times, the Kakatiya and Vijayanagara Kingdoms had many prominent nayakas from various castes. During the expansion of Vijayanagar Empire, the Nayak title was conferred upon non-Telugu speaking communities who served in the same function in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. This title is also used by other communities in Andhra Pradesh, Orissa, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The Nayaka title was conferred upon warriors who received land along with the title Nayaka as a part of the Nayankarapuvaram system for services rendered to the court during the Kakatiya dynasty. Nayaka was one among approximately 25 titles used by the Kakatiyas to create a new political infrastructure to undercut the authority of heredity regional elites.[1] The Nayankara system was also used by the Vijayanagar empire [2] wherein land was granted to a Nayaka or Palayakarrar (Polygar) on condition that they would place their military service at the disposal of the king.[3] Many communities later began using the Naick or Naidu surname. Edgar Thurston (Castes and Tribes of Southern India Vol. 5; p. 138) noted that "Naidu" or "Nayudu" title was in use by several Telugu castes in colonial India (in alphabetical order): Balija, Bestha, Boyar(warrior) caste, Ekari, gangawar(Boyar), Gavara,Kalingi, Kamma, Kapu, Mudirajus, Velama, Odde, Tottiyan, Reddy, Telaga, Uppiliyan, Idiga and Valmiki.
Origins The Nayaka / Danda Nayaka term started being used during the Vishnukundina dynasty which ruled from the Krishna and Godavari deltas during the 3rd Century A.D. Little is known about the title usage prior to that. A more widespread usage of the term Nayaka can be traced to the expansion of the Western Chalukyas into Andhra country during the 7th Century. However, the most widespread usage of the term Nayak happened during the Vijayanagar rule. The word Naidu is used by the older writers in southern India in several senses, of which the following example given by Yule and Burnell may be cited: • It denoted a Commander or a Governor. • Native captain or headman. • Title of honor among Hindus in the Deccan. "The kings of deccan also have a custom when they will honor a man or recompence their service done, and raise him to dignity and honor. They give him the title of Nayak." -Linschoten • The general name of the Kings of Vijayanagar. Though originally not meant to be a heredity title, by modern times, the Naidu title had been inherited by many, although they no longer were governors, army commanders or tax collectors. Andhra Pradesh In Andhra Pradesh, the title is predominantly used by the Kapu caste (Balija Naidu/Gavara Naidu/Telaga Naidu/Kapu Naidu) though other castes like the kamma, pala ekari, Boyars,Koppula/Polinati Velamas, Kammas and Kalingas have begun using it of late. Tamil Nadu Many Telugu-speaking communities like Boyar, Gangawar Naidu, kamma Naidu, Baljia Naidu, Gavara naidu, vadugar, kapu, Gajulu use the title Naidu, whereas the title Naicker is used by both Tamils and Telugus. Boyar is the telugu-speaking warrior class, later involved in the construction work of forts, administratative buildings and palaces. There are sub-communities in the Boyar community, 'oddar/oddisa', or people who migrated from Orissa to give assistance in these professions, who are included in these castes. In these days, in Tamil Nadu, Kamma, Gavara, Balija, Boyars and Vadugars are called Naidu or Nayakars. In the Vijanagar Dynasty, Kammas, kapus, boyars and Balijas were warriors, landlords, administrators and governors for the Emperor or King. During the British period, they were called Palayakarargal. The Government of India and of Tamil Nadu includes many Naidu main and subcastes as either 'other backward class' or 'backward class'. Kerala In Kerala there are just about 5000 Naidu families spread all over the state. Their ancestors migrated around 200 years back from the Madurai region. Some families came from Tirunelveli region. They belong to Balija caste group. Diasporas Notable diasporic communities are found in South Africa [spelled Naidoo: Xavier Naidoo], Polynesia, mainly the South-western arc and eastern island chains. Notable Naidus • Sarojini Naidu - first Indian woman President of the Indian National Congress • Sri Krishna Devaraya - Maharajah • Leela Naidu, Savitri - Indian actress • C. K. Nayudu - Indian Cricketer • Janakiraman Naidu. The first person to develop acetoxy silicone sealant in Middle East, Africa, Indian sub continent, Central Asia and CIS Countries. • Vangaveeti Mohana Ranga -- Politician of Naidu • Konidela Chiranjeevi(Siva Shankara Vara Prasad)-Indian Actor • N Chandrababu Naidu - Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh • Pradesh Naidu - Architect of Many temples well known in the indian subcontinent • Gayathri Naidu - Heiress of over 10.5 bil. • Sunitha Santhanagopal Naidu - Opening of two schools, SRV and Nest for lower class and helpless children References 1. The political economy of craft production: crafting empire in South India, c. 1350-1650, by Carla Sinopoli, p.73 2. History of Tamil Nadu, 1565-1982, by K. Rajayyan, p.20-23. 3. Local government in the Vijayanagara Empire, by Venkata Ratnam, p.14.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naidu
History The Chitradurga Palaegar (Polygar) family was of the Beda, or Boya, caste and belonged to one of the hunting hill tribes. According to one tradition, three Boya families emigrated from Jadikal-durga, in the neighbourhood of Tirupati, and settled at Nirutadi, near Bramhasagara, at about 1475 AD. They are said to have belonged to the Kamageti family. The son and the grandson of one of these was named Hire Hanummappa Nayaka and Timmanna Nayaka, respectively. There were many battles in the reign of this Nayaka between Chitradurga, Harapanahalli, Rayadurga, and Bijapur, in all of which the Nayaka had splendid success.[2] Rayadurg and Kalyandurg are two important forts which were ruled by Boya Palaegars. The name Kalyandurg came from Boya Kalyanappa, who was a Palaegar in the 16th century. Rayadurg was originally a stronghold of Boya Palaegar, which was very turbulent during the Vijayanagar rule. Kalyandurg was under the rule of Sri Krishnadevaraya and was a part of Vijayanagar Empire.[citation needed] In about 1517, Chitradurga Fort was given by Vijayanagar ruler to a Boya chief. It became a tributary to Bijapur after fall of Vijayanagar. There were portraits of ‘A Boya of Rank’, a member of the royal caste (related to royal family) of Chitradurga Nayaks who was documented by Colin Mackenzie.[3] Other references
Statue of Lord Shiva in 'Boya' Attire Boya Temples 1. ' Vijay eswara Swami ' Temple - The Vijayeswara temple is set on the Indrakiladri hill near Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh. The installation of Vijayeswara is said to have been done by Arjuna to commemorate his victory with Lord Shiva in the form of 'Kirata' (hunter).[4] Boyas often appear in kakatiya-period inscriptions as the people who are entrusted with livestock endowed to temples, donating perpetual lamp Nanda deepa and as military chieftains. The meaning of Boya has changed considerably with the passage of time.[5] During the 7th century, various inscriptions from Southern India mention Boya-Brahmans in the Kondanaaru grant of Vishnuvardhana-II, dated 673 AD. The boyas organized themselves into a massive social entity by sanskritising themselves and calling a few members boya-brahmans. This is indicative of not only the attempt of the boyas to organise into a sociological and political unit but also attempting to extend further into the plains and come into contact with neighbouring groups. As result of this interaction they claimed some of the Brahmanical values in neighbouring society to have superimposed in their community.[6] Present day Boya / Boyar caste comes under OBC in Central List. In Tamil Nadu & Kerala as BC, Andhra Pradesh as BC ( Group 'A') and Karnataka as BC ( Category I ).[7] References 1. ^ Medieval Indian culture and political geography - K. Satyamurthy - Google Books 2. ^ Mysore: a gazetteer compiled for ... - B. L. Rice - Google Books 3. ^ Castes of mind: colonialism and the ... - Nicholas B. Dirks - Google Books 4. ^ Great Temples vijayawada,Draksharamam, tirupathi, Annavaram, Badrachalam, Srisailam, Shiridi,srikalahasthi,thousand pillar,kanipakam,basara,chilukuru balaji,mantralayam,birla ... 5. ^ South Indian Inscriptions - Volume 10 - Kakatiya Dynasty Inscriptions @ whatisindia.com 6. ^ Medieval Indian culture and ... - K. Satyamurthy - Google Books 7. ^ http://72.14.235.132/search?q=cache:VPWSQXYeOHcJ:www.du.ac.in/OBC-CENTER-LIST.pdf+boyar+coimbatore&cd=98&hl=en&ct=clnk&client=opera
Talari is a boyar caste title Talwar-Boya / Talari Boya / Taliari Boya are some of the boyar caste titles in use. Talari is also a surname among Boyar / Valmiki Nayakas who are a subsect of Mudiraja community of South India. Goddess Ankalamma or Ankamma is a popular diety of Cholas, Mudiraj, Erukalas, Valmiki Nayakas, etc.
Boya, Nayak, Naidu, Boya Talwar, Talari in Telugu country are Warriors / Hunters. Boya, Boyan, Boyar, Boya Naidu, Nayakar, Nayaka, Boya Palegar, Palaiyakkarar, Palegara, Talwar-Boya, Talari Boya, Taliari Boya are various boyar caste titles, which are in use. Boya Palaiyakkarar (Polygar) - who was to administrate their Palaiyams (territories) from their fortified centers. Their chief function was to collect taxes, maintain law and order, run the local judiciary, and maintain
The Chitradurga Paleyagar family was of the Beda or Boya caste and belonged to one of the hill tribes family who subsisted by hunting and tending cattle. The Chitradurga Fort, defined by walls of huge granite blocks, rises above the town. A series of three gates leads into the irregular inner zone, strewn with striking granite boulders. There are several small temples here, as well as a number of ceremonial gateways erected by the Bedas. The platforms and pavilions within the compound of the Sampige Siddheshvara Temple mark the spot where the Bedas were crowned. The remains of rubble and mudbuilt granaries and residences, and a large circular well can be seen nearby.
The Bedas are the Bedars and the Bedars are Vedars. While Vedars are a subcaste of Tamil Muthuraja community, the same people who are known as Valmikis are a subcaste of Telugu Mudiraj community today.
Vetans = Vedars = the people of Kannappa Kula. Beda = Bedar = Vedar = Valmiki = Nayaka
It is well known fact that the Mudiraj people worship Goddess Ankamma. There is one Ankali mutt near Chitradurga. Nestling amongst a group of rugged hills, west of Chitradurga, this mutt is known for its subterranean chambers. Near the Panchalinga cave (Wonder cave) entrance, is an inscription dated 1286 A.D. executed in the reign of the Hoysala King Narasimha III. This stronly proves that these Valmiki Nayakas and Mudiraj are one and the same. This region of Tirupati and Srikalahasti is known to be the home land of Kalabhras ( the ancestors of Muthurajas ) who inveded Chola, Chera, and Pandya kingdoms. These valmikis could be the descendants of kalabhras who are in turn are known as branch of Kalachuris of Central India.
In Karnataka, the Valmiki community is also called as Nayaka, ,Beda,Talavara. All these sections belong to VALMIKI community only. The Valmiki people in Karnataka are in ST category. From history of Karnataka, it can be seen that the Valmiki people were rulers of some places such as Chitradurga, Surpur, Keladi, etc. Chitradurga Nayaka kingdom and Keladi Nayaka kingdom were well known in Deccan India.
The Valmiki community is also called as NAYAKA in Karnataka. There are two sub-castes of Nayaka :
1). Ura Nayaka : The valmiki people living in cities are called as Ura Nayaka in Chitradurg dist. 2). Myasa Nayaka : The valmiki people living in villages and forests are called as Myasa Nayaka. The term Nayaka means leader. The Nayaka community has three sub-castes namely Valmiki, Beda and Talavara. Valmiki claim direct descent from Valmiki, the author of Ramayana. Bedas practice hunting. Talavars function as messengers as well as village watchmen.NAIKADA, NAYAKA Popularly known as Palegar, Beda, Valmiki, Ramoshi Parivara etc., they are concentrated in the Chitradurga, Shimoga, Bellary and Tumkur.
Ganga were Muttarasas. Some of them used Talavara & Nayaka titles. Savanadurga and Magadi were ruled by the representative (Viceroy) of the Penukonda kings. The last viceroy was Samji Raya, who died without any successor. After his death, Talavara Ganga Nayaka of Gudemaranahalli took over the forts of Savanadurga and Magadi. At the request of the Penukonda Emperor, Kempe Gowda II conquered Savanadurga and Magadi and added them to the territories of Bengalooru. Ganga Naik / Gangawaru - was the title given for Nayaks of Ganga Dynasty.
In Andhra region, it is observed that Talavar or Talari used to issue coins. It was only in the Andhra region that coins came to be issued by high officials of the ruling dynasty, such as Senapathi, Talavara, Maharathi and Mahagramika, which raises an important question whether the authority to issue coins was decentralized or delegated in those times.
Talwar / Taliari / Talari - was name of Soldiers , Guards and Revenue collectors. For village policing, carrying the land revenue to treasury headquarters, the workers had to bear arms, so called 'Talwar' meaning sword.
Boya "Throughout the hills," Buchanan writes, "northward from Capaladurga, are many cultivated spots, in which, during Tippoo's government, were settled many Baydaru or hunters, who received twelve pagodas a year, and served as irregular troops whenever required. Being accustomed to pursue tigers and deer in the woods, they were excellent marksmen with their match-locks, and indefatigable in following their prey; which, in the time of war, was the life and property of every helpless creature that came in their way. During the wars of Hyder and his son, these men were chief instruments in the terrible depredations committed in the lower Carnatic. They were also frequently employed with success against the Poligars (feudal chiefs), whose followers were of a similar description.
In the Madras Census Report, 1901, it is stated that the two main divisions of Boyas are called also Pedda (big) and Chainna (small) respectively, and, according to another account, the caste has four endogamous sections, Pedda, Chinna, and Myasa. Sadaru is the name of a subdivision of Lingayats, found mainly in the Bellary and Anantapur districts, where they are largely engaged in cultivation. Some Bedars who live amidst those Lingayats call themselves Sadaru. According to the Manual of the North Arcot district, the Boyas are a "Telugu hunting caste, chiefly found above the ghats. Many of the Poligars of that part of the country used to belong to the caste, and proved themselves so lawless that they were dispossessed. Now they are usually cultivators. They have several divisions, the chief of which are the Mulki Boyas and the Pala Boyas, who cannot intermarry. ,br> " According to the Mysore Census Reports, 1891 and 1901, "the Bedas have two distinct divisions, the Kannada and Telugu, and own some twenty sub-divisions, of which the following are the chief: Halu, Machi or Myasa, Nayaka, Pallegar, Barika, Kannaiyyanajati, and Kirataka. The Machi or Myasa Bedas comprise a distinct sub-division, also called the Chunchus. They live mostly in hills, and outside inhabited places in temporary huts.
Rayadurg and Kalyandurg are the two important forts which were ruled by Boya Palegars. The name Kalyandurg came from Boya Kalyanappa, who was a Polygar in the 16th Century. Rayadurg was originally a stronghold of Boyar palegar who were very turbulent during the Vijayanagar rule. Kalyandurg was under the rule of Sri Krishnadevaraya and was a part of Vijayanagara Empire. NAYAKWADI Nayakwadi is one of the surnames that belongs to Telugu Mudiraj community. It seems that Nayakwai is a village and also a surname of the people from Karnataka.
The Boya titles was split into Berad, Bedar, Nayak, Talwar, Nayakwadi, Nayakar, Valmiki nayak, Palegar etc. each having distinctive meaning. Nayakwadi - was the title of 'Killedar'. Those protecting outer walls of forts were called 'Nayakvadi. While Valmikis are a susect of Telugu Mudirajas, the Vetans / Vettuvas ( Bedars ) are a subsect of Tamil Muthurajas. For more details about Nayaka Kingdoms, see for Web Page "KINGDOMS" in this website.
Naikwadi surname is seen prevelent among Maharastrian - Hindu - kolis also. Some sections of Mudiraj people are known as the people of kolis migrated into South India. This surname Nayakawadi stands as a testimony to this fact of link between kolis amd Mudiraj.
Nayakwadi surname also exists among Indian Muslims. The Naikwadis were probably Hindus from Mysore, once upon a time chose to call themselves Pathans. These Naikwadis are believed to be descendants of the soldiers of Tipu who during the disturbances that followed his overthrow settled in the northern districts (Karnatak). Originally Hindus, they are said to have been converted and named by Haider Nai and hence they are called Nayakwadis.Some of them have leanings towards the Wahabi faith. Tadvis are Bhils converted by Aurangzeb. Bhangis are both descendants of converts and others who have lately come from North India. <
Nayakwadi seems to be one of the surnames of Mali community of Maharahtra also . Malis are well known as specialist cultivators.
Boyar : A boyar, also spelled boya (meaning Hunter) is the name of a caste. A leader of a group or Head of Territory. Boya is called as Naidu. The Boyar community constitute the Non-orthodox Kshatriya or Warrior class of India. They are all believed to have originated from an ancient people called Kirata. Boyas or Bedars were none other than Vanaras of Kishkinta kingdom of Ramayana times in South India. These were the vanara warriors who were controlled by Sri Rama in the war against Demon Ravana of Srilanka to rescue Sita. Boya and Valmiki are the names in vogue. Boya consider themselves as descendents of 'Valmiki' a Sanskrit writer.The most famous Kiratas in Hinduism are the Kiratra avatar of Shiva, Lord Buddha and sage Valmiki, writer of the Ramayana.
Boya caste corresponds to Kiratas of Sanskrit writers, the Warriors, Hunters and Mountaineers. As the names indicate, they belonged to one of the hill tribes who subsisted by hunting and tending cattle. Gaikwads, Kurubas and Yadavas too originally belonged to this group. In Manu's Dharmashastra they are mentioned as Vratya (Non-Orthodox) Kshatriyas, which meant that they were considered to be advanced in civilization and warfare, but outside the ambit of Brahminical influence. It is speculated that the term is a Sanskritization of a Sino-Tibetan tribal name, like that of Kirant or Kiranti of eastern Nepal. Mythology gives an indication of their geographical position of Kirata kingdom near Nepal and Bhutan. In the Mahabharata, Bhima meets the Kiratas to the east of Videha, where his son Ghatotkacha is born; and in general the dwellers of the Himalayas, especially the eastern Himalayas, were called Kiratas. Ghatotkacha of Mahabharata fame (Son of Bhima) was a Kirata Chieftain.
The Boya warriors migrated from Indus valley after saraswathi river dried up and invaded several mountainous regions in south-eastern peninsula. The original population of Boyas was mixed with various linguistic groups. These Boya warriors served as military regiment and chiefs between 10th century to 15th century in Chalukya, Chola, Vijayanagar and Hoysala empires. In India Boyas were mainly found in South India as Hindu Telugu speaking community as non-orthodox Kshatriyas. Their population concentrated mainly in the Andhra-Orissa region and later in all southern states. Eastern Chalukyan empire's court was essentially a Republic of Badami, and the administrative subdivisions were known as 'Boya-Kottams'. Boya-kottams existed across southern states right from 5th century according to Kakatiya inscriptions. Boya-kottams held assignments of land or revenue in different villages. Chola-Chalukyas used titles 'Udayar' or 'Odeyar' for chieftains at certain periods of time which included Boya Chieftains.
King Pratapa Rudra's Kakatiya kingdom was ably served by seventy five chieftains called Nayaks. The Nayaks who belonged to various agrarian castes such as Boyar, Velama, Kamma, Reddy, Telaga, Balija, etc. were divided by mutual jealousy and rivalry but they are valiant cousins. Boyar Gudi at Aihole-Pattadakal (South East of the Village) was built in 14th Century for the Boyar community worship. Many more temples were constructed in Andhra-Orissa region by Boya Chieftains.
The Chitradurga Paleyagar family was of the Beda or Boya caste and belonged to one of the hill tribes family who subsisted by hunting. According to one tradition, it appears that three Boya families emigrated from Jadikal-durga, in the neighbourhood of Tirupati, and settled at Nirutadi near Bramhasagara about 1475. They are said to have belonged to the Kamageti family and Valmiki gotra. The son and the grand�son of one of these, named Hire Hanummappa Nayaka and Timmanna Nayaka respectively. There were many battles in the reign of this Nayaka between Chitradurga and Harapanahalli, Rayadurga and Bijapur in all of which the Nayaka had splendid success.
Boyas or Bedars were none other than Vanaras of Kishkinta kingdom of Ramayana in South India. They were the Vanara warriors who were controlled by Sri Rama in the war against Demon Ravana of Srilanka to rescue Sita. Boya and Valmiki are the names in vogue. Boya consider themselves as sons of sardars and descendents of Valmiki.
Boyars migrated from Indo-Iran around 5th century BCE to Indian sub-continent and later 9th century to Turkey and Romania. Having Dravidian roots came from indus valley invaded south region .Boyars are mainly found in South India as Hindu Telugu speaking community and non-orthodox kshatriyas. Boyars arrived to Andhra - Orissa region during Indo-Aryan migration around 5th century BCE.
Boyar warriors served as military regiment between 10th century to 15th century in Chalukya, Chola, Vijayanagar and Hoysala empires. The Musunuri Nayaks were Boyars and Kamma warrior chieftains in the Kakatiya army, who regained Andhra in 1326 from the Delhi Sultanate in the aftermath of the Kakatiya defeat. King Pratapa Rudra's Kakatiya kingdom was ably served by seventy five chieftains called Nayaks. The Nayaks who belonged to various agrarian castes such as Boyar, Velama, Kamma, Reddy, Telaga, Balija, etc. were divided by mutual jealousy and rivalry but they are valiant cousins.
Rayadurg and Kalyandurg are the two important forts which were ruled by Boya Palegars. The name Kalyandurg came from Kalyanappa, who was a Polygar in the 16th Century. Rayadurg was originally a stronghold of Boyar palegar who were very turbulent during the Vijayanagar rule. Kalyandurg was under the rule of Sri Krishnadevaraya and was a part of Vijayanagara Empire.
Boya Palaiyakkarar (Polygar) who was to administrate their Palaiyams (territories) from their Fortified centers. Their chief function was to collect taxes, maintain law and order, run the local judiciary, and maintain a battalion of troops for the Nayak.
Boya is considered as oldest caste and origin among many castes in India . Boyars are non-pure Kshatriyas they are called as ' Boya ' in Andhra Pradesh ' Boyar ' in Tamil nadu and in Karnataka as ' Bhovi '. Boya, Boyar, Boyi, Bhovi are the hereditary and clan title. Boyar caste consists many gotras. Boyas worship Tirupati Lord Venkat Ramana, Mariamman, Shiva, Subramanya, etc. A lost link between Boyars of India and Europe. There was a great migration in Indus valley in 5th BCE boyar warrior caste a Kshatriya community was split into many groups took different direction and invaded many regions. By and large there are more similarities in culture and origin . Temple inscription and Religious texts also denotes about boyar caste and origin. so we conclude that Boyars are distant cousins of East asia and Russia.
A lost link between Boyars of India and Europe. There was a great migration in Indus valley in 5th BCE boyar warrior caste a Kshatriya community was split into many groups took different direction and invaded many regions. By and large there are more similarities in culture and origin . Temple inscription and Religious texts also denotes about boyar caste and origin. so we conclude that Boyars are distant cousins of East asia and Russia.
BHAKTA KANNAPPA & VETTUVAS & BEDARS :
Kannappa Kula is a subcaste of Muthurajas in Tamilnadu and the tribal people of Boya Kannappa of Srikalahasti region of Andhra Pradesh. These people are also known as Vettuva Goundan or Vettuva Gounder in Tamilnadu.
Vettuva Goundan or Vettuva Gounder is an endogamous social group or caste of indigenous tribal origin and are a Tamil speaking people in the Erode area of West Tamil Nadu state.
Vettuva Gounders are from agricultural family backround like other gounders. Vettuva gounder's ancestors from the devotional legend of Siva bhakta Kannappan. They are from Khalhasti and moved from there to south. The most pocket of people are located in Erode, Madurai, Coimbatore, Bhavanishakar and also near Thirunelveli.
In Tamil language the word Vettuvan or Vetan means a hunter. The word is derived from the noun Vettu or to cut. Many hunter gatherer tribes across Tamil nadu and neighboring Kerala are still referred to as Vetan or Vetar. Vettuva Pulayar is a name of a significant caste in Kerala. This term is etymologically related to Sinhalese Vedda and Telugu Bedda for primitive tribes.
Vettuvas are of Telugu origin from Srikalahasti region of Andhra Pradesh. In Telugu Veta means hunting. The word Vetan and Vetar in Tamil are derived from Veta.
Veta = Hunting Veta => Veta Gaadu = Hunter (singular) Veta => Veta Vaaru => Veta Vaandru = Hunters (Plural) Veta => Vetan => Vedan = Hunter Veta => Vetar => Vedar => Bedar = Hunter Veta Vaandru => Vetavaanru => Vetavaan => Vettuvan = Hunter Veta Vaandru => Vetavaanru => Vetavaar => Vettuvar = Hunter Vettuvan => Vettuvar => Vettuva = Hunter
Although they are historically considered to be native to the region some consider them to be Vadugans or northerners meaning immigrants from further north in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. Today they are found in all walks of life and rarely engaged in hunter gatherer activities.
Apparently the clan divisions between a settled group commonly known as Vellala Gounder and Vettuva Gounder show similarities showing an assimilation of hunting groups into settled agricultural groups[citation needed]. The historical war between Vellala Gounder and Vettuvas is mentioned in the mythical local Annamar-Appachimar story where the latter were defeated.
Karnataka : The Bedars of Karnataka and Maharastra are an extended branch of Valmikis ( Kannappa kula = Vettuvas) of Andhra Pradesh. The word Bedar is derived from telugu word Veta.
Veta (Telugu) = Hunting Veta => Vetan => Vedan => Vedar => Bedar => Bedara = Hunter
Boya Kannapa is known as Bedara Kannappa in Karnataka. The Bedars were mostly Boya poligars who looked after village / palayam administration under Vijayanager empire in South India. This system of village level administration was a well established one deep rooted Rayalaseema, parts of Karnataka,and Tamilnadu which formed a major part of Vijayanagar kingdom.
Palayam was a group of villages which was under administrative control of Palayakar / palayakarar / poligar. Palayam administration is just parallel to that of Mutha system of administration.
Mutha => Palayam
Muthas were administered by Mutharachas who inherit their rights of administration by hirarchy of the family tree. In case of Palayam system of administration, the palayakars were appointed by the king at his sweet will but generally they too continue on hirachy basis as long as king was pleased with them.
Palayakars <=> bedars <=> mutharachas
The Nayakas were also called Bedars. The bedars were also known as Beydurs. Some times they are also known as Berads.
The bedars might be a gradual corrupted form for �Boya Doras�. The Bhills of North India are known as Boyas in Telugu speaking areas Andhra Pradesh. It is widely accepted that Bhils are of Telugu origin due to the fact bhil means villu and villu means bow used by archers.
Dora = Lord = Chief (singular) Doras = Lords = Chiefs (plural) Boya Doras=> Boydoras => Beydoras => Beydurs => bedars
The fall of Vijayanagara empire caused the emergence of splinter states in South India and Deccan. These states were collectively known as Poligars (Palegars). They dominated the political scenario of the South India. These Poligar states were founded by the warrior tribes of South India.
One such Poligar state known as Surapura Samsthana was founded by the Bedars and ruled between 1650 and 1858 AD in Sagara-nadu or Shorapur Doab (Gulbarga Dist. Karnataka).
Raidurga was originally a stronghold of 'Bedars' ('Boya Palegars') who were very turbulent during the Vijayanagar rule. The emperor deputed an officer driving them out and ruled place himself and the hill was thus called "Bhupatirayakonda".
After the battle of 'Rakshasa Tangadi', the Bedars regained the place, but were again driven out after some time by 'Koneti Nayak'. His son 'Venkatapathi Nayak' who had differences with the 'Palegar' of Chittaldurg greatly strengthened the fortifications. Tipu captured the fort and made it a part of his Gooty province.
The Berads of Sagar
The region between between the Krishna and Bhima Rivers is hilly and forested and is called Malnad. From Mysore north through the Malnad region and all the way to Bijapur were lands colonized by the Berads�a race of aboriginal Kanarese belonging to the lowest Dhed caste on account of their life style.
Many of them were Lingayets or Vaishnavs and they had no dietary restrictions. They eat mutton, beef, pork, and fowl with gusto and drank to excess. Their race name means �hunter� in Kanarese and they also indulged in cattle-lifting and other crimes. Alternatively called Bedars/Beydurs these people were dark, muscular, and of middle height; with round faces, thin lips, and frizzled hair. A popular story ran that the Mughal historians were so impressed by their fighting qualities that they changed the name Berad to Be-dar, meaning fearless.
Dar = fear Be-dar = fearless
For the purpose of hunting and war the Bedars had adopted the matchlock and had become adept in the use of firearm. Their tribal organization�where headmen controlled different bands of younger fighters�ensured discipline and unity in their ranks. Not surprisingly they had become the steadiest and most accurate musketeers in 17th century South India. Another singular name used for them was kala-piadas or black foot-musketeers. Later on these same Berads formed the bulk of Tipu Sultan�s French-led infantry. The Bedar King of Sagar used the title Nayak and is known in Persian histories as Pam Nayak.
Kala = black Paidal= > paidas = foot
Bedras were known as a thieving caste that assisted in the plundering of Vijayanagar after the battle of Talikota. These Naikdas or Nayakas are to be found not only in the districts of Mysore but also in Maharashtra and Rajasthan.
Ramoshis :
Today's Ramoshi was called Boya, Berad and Vedan. In Andhra it was called Boya and in Karnataka and Tamilnadu it was called Berad and Bedar. Ramoshis of Maharashtra have come from mostly Karnataka and their surnames are same as Berad-Ramoshi of Karnataka. Their original language is sothern. They first got settled in Karnataka and later migrated to Maharashtra. Word 'Bhuyal' in Berad's language seems to have originated from Boya. though it is known in Maharashtra as Ramoshi-Berad, the name 'Ramoshi' is not older than 100-200 years.
The British declared the Berad-Ramoshis of Maharastra a criminal tribe. Almost every fort of Shivaji had a settlement of Berad-Ramoshi warriors at its foothills? And that 50 Ramoshis captured Fort Purandhar near Pune defeating the Mughals?
The Berad-Ramoshis, who live mostly in south Maharashtra and in Karnataka where they are known as Beydurs.
One of the most interesting stories in the book concerns the disarming of the Berads of Halgali, near Mudhol in Karnataka, in November 1857.
During the first war of Independence, the British made it mandatory for people to surrender their arms. Lt-Col. G.B. Settunkar was entrusted with the task of implementing the order in south Maharashtra and north Karnataka. The Berads from Halgali village in Mudhol refused to surrender their arms.
Settunkar and his colleagues marched to Halgali. For almost two days the entire village fought along with the Berads and stopped the army from entering the village. As a last resort, the army set ablaze the village by throwing in fireballs but the Berads did not give up. In the end, 19 of them were captured by the British and killed.
The Berad-Ramoshi king of Shorapur in Gulburga district of Karnatak - Shorapur kingdom was founded in 1636 by Gaddipida Nayak. The British annexed it in 1858, after king Venkatappa Nayak was found dead in mysterious circumstances. The British said that it was a suicide, but is widely believed that he was shot dead by British.
The story of the Battle of Wagengere (Wakinkheda), as it is known now in Maharashtra) in February 1705 - It was the last battle of Aurangzeb and it is believed that the families of Maratha generals, who were fighting the Mughals since the death of Shivaji in 1680, were sheltered by the king of Beydur, Venkatappa Naik IV.
The brave Naiks surrendered only after they learnt that the families of the Marathas were given a safe passage out of the Wakinkheda fort. The royal family still preserves a letter written by Aurangzeb to the king of Shorapur in 1658 when he took over the reins of the Mughal empire.
The inhabitants in the South of the River Krishna �whether Telegus, Berads, or Purbias�did impact the evolution of infantry warfare. The leaders were mostly regional landowners and military commanders.
A very widespread conspiracy was attempted in the Southern Mahratta districts of the Bombay presidency. The young Rajah of Shorapoor was deeply implicated in this treason and Captain Campbell's life being threatened. A portion of the contingent force stationed at Lingsoogoor, under Captain Wyndham , went to his assistance. This was treacherously attacked on February 7, 1858, by the rajah's tribe of Beydurs, with some Arabs and Rohillas.
History of Ramoshis
In 1871 the British Government declared some tribes as "Criminal". The established society did ot oppose this, contrararily they seem to have liked it. Some clauses were:
1 Permission should be obtained from police while shifting from one location to other. 2 Govt. could send the group of people outside the bounds of a certain area. 3 Govt. got the right to form a 'settlement' and keep the groups of people there.1. Maharashtra -- Ramoshis are Berads or Boyas. Ramoshi did not originate from 'Ram vamshi'. It is in use only for hundred to hundred and fifty years. Before that, they were called Berad or Bedar, as mentioned during rule of Peshavas.
Narveer Umaji Naik, in a letter of 1828, mentions as Ranvasi addressed to Ramoshis. Those days they were staying in hills and doing the job of protection of villages and crops in fields.
Ramoshi might be a gradual corrupted form of the word Ram Vasi. Ram = Sri Rama of Valmiky Ramayana Vasi = controlled Rama + vasi => Ramvasi => Ramosi => Ramoshi = Vanara warriors controlled Sri Rama
Boyas or Bedars were non other than Vanaras of Kishkinda kingdom of Ramayana times in South India. These were the vanara warriors who were controlled by Sri Rama in the war against Demon Ravana of Srilanka to recue Sita
2. Andhra Pradesh -- Boya, Dorabiddu and Valmiki are the names in vogue. Dorabiddu means sons of sardars. Boya consider themselves as sons of sardars and descendents of Valmiki.
Dorabiddu = Dora + Biddu Dora = Lord = Chief =head of tribe Biddu = son Biddadu => Bidda => Biddu =son Dorabiddu = sons of chief = sons of sardar
Valmiki was a bhill. Bhills are known as Boyas in Andhra Pradesh. Bhill stans for Villu. Villu meand Bow. The bhill means great archer. Ekalavya who proved to be superior in the skills of archery was also a bhill . Sri Krishna killed Ekalavya when the later attacked Dwaraka.
3. Tamilnadu -- Name in vogue is 'Vedan'.
4. Karnataka -- Names Berad and Bedar are in vogue. Bedar was word used by Muslims either to show the dauntless quality or may be inability to pronounce properly. Muslim books use word Bedar.
The names are Berad, Bedar, Nayak, Talwar, Nayavadi, Naykar, Valmiki, Palegar etc. each having distinctive meaning.
1. Nayak and Nayakar -- During Kakatiya and Vijayanagar rules in Andhra, a head of a region was called Nayak, and traditional 'vatandars' were called Naykar. Akin to Deshmukh and Desais in Maharashtra, were Palegar and Naykars. Many Berads became Palegar on their own bravery. Nayak in Teugu means Ownner or Head or leader. May be this is origin of word.
2. Naykvadi was the title of Killedar. Those protecting outer walls of fortes were called Nayakvadi.
3. Talwar was name one doing work of village watchman or revenue work. For villege policing, carrying the land revenue to treasury headquarters, the workers had to bear arms, so called Talwar meaning sword.
Religious customs of Berad-Ramoshis
1. Devata and kulswami -- Ramoshis of Maharashtra worship Khandoba as 'kulswami'. Also worship Mariaai, kalubai, janaai, firanjaai, tukaai, bhairoba etc., and also Yellamma.
Berads of Karnataka worship Mallikarjuna, Mauti, Vekatesh as main deities and also worship Yellamma.
Boyas worship Tirupati Venkat Ramana, Mariamma, Kanathrathan etc. Most of Berads are Shaivaites. They worship Shiva and engage Jangam or Lingayat Swami for religious functions.
2. Devak (Totems) -- Every kula has separate totem. No marriages take place within same totem though surnames may be different. They include pan-kanis, vasan-vel, surya-ful, umbar, jambhul etc.
3. Caste Panchayat of Berad Ramoshis -- The head is called Naik in Maharashtra and well respected. Previously they dealt with all disputes. In Karnataka he is called Nayak or Kahimani and Head of Boyas is called Naidu, Doraa or Sinhasan Boya. Their word is final and punishments differed, fine, feast to excommunication.
4. Wedding / Barase / Marmik -- Lingayat or Jangam is required. Sometimes Brahmin does it. Remarriages and widow marriages are allowed. Groom pays to bride's father some teej/dej/tyaj. There WAS no dowry system.
5. Barase and pachavi -- Child is named on 13th day. 'ghugarya' are distributed. On 5th day 'pachava chi puja' is performed. This time 'satwai' is worshiped. Child is named on twelth or twentyfirst day.
6. Funeral rites -- Burial was in vogue. Somewhere they cremate. On 3rd or 7th or 12th day they do 'mati lotne'. 'uttar karya vidhi' is performed that time.
At the burial place, the stones are aranged, gulal is sprinkled. On 3rd day flowers and 'naivadya' is offered.
History of Berads
The original man was Guh. According to Rajguru of Shorapur princely state, Berads come from Tamilnadu migrating to Karnatake during Vijaynagar rule. Names of 14 ancestors are known to him but not whereabouts. The last was 'goshti pid nayaka', a contemporary of Shivaji Maharaj. This means the history dates back to 800 years from Shivaji's known date of 1630. Epigraphs of 8th to 11th century mention 'Bed-Beda', are they for the community?
During Vijaynagar rule, these Nayak kings were assigned duty of protecting province of Tungabhadra. After of fall of Vijaynagar, the kings of Shorpur became independant. They only came under Bijapur court for name sake. But the Bijapur court was always afraid of Berad Nayak Kings.
Later, during Maratha - Moghul conflict, Nayak kings played important role. After fall of Sambhaji and migration of Rajaram to Jinji, Moghu-Maratha conflict spread from Narmada to Tamilnadu and from east to west coast. Moghul Emperors realized they were fighting with a hurt identity in 1695. But it was not possible to turn back. During this conflict, Berad Nayaks played a delicate and important role. The families of all important Maratha sardars and their treasury was in Vagana-gera (or Wakin-kheda), the capital of these Nayak kings. Therefore, Aurangjeb had to fight his last battle of his life against Berad Nayaks of Vagana-gera during 1705 - 06.
Struggle against the British
Inumerable Berads sacrificed their lives in uprisings against the British. History knows very few names. The important are:
1820 -1831 -- Umaji Naik, Bhulaji, Pandu Naik -- they rovolted in Pune, Nagar, Nasik, Satara, Solapur, Kokan. Most of participants in these rebelions were Ramoshis. 1817 -- Gokak, Pachapur regions in Karnataka, Nayaks organized and rebelled. They were mostly Berads. Revolt of Kittur Channamma and Sangoli Rayanna in Karnataka had mostly Berads, 1817 -- Trimbak Dengale's revolt in Pune by sardars in Peshaai - mostly had Ramoshi, Bhil, Koli etc. 1857 - Uprising of Rango Bapuji in Satara, rebelled in name of Chatrapati of Satara. Centres established for recruitment where Ramoshi Koli and Mangs were in majority. Two Madane Brothers of Ramoshi wadi (Koregaon Satara) and Nana Ramoshi of Kundal were blown by cannon. Many Ramoshis from Tasgaon in Bijapur Taluka participated. 1844-50 -- Tukaram and Mahankal, two sons of Umaji Naik revolted. 1857 - Berads of Village Halgali Dist. Bijapur Karnataka revolted against disarming act. 19 Berads were hanged at Mudhol. 1857 -- Raja Venkappa Nayak of Shurpur Dist Gulbarga rebelled. He died in struggle, 1870 -- 1880 Rebellion of Vasudev Balwant Phadake was participated by most of Ramoshis. Head was Daulati Naik, who died in fight against Capt. Daniel in Tisubai Hills. Hari Ramoshi was hanged at Jejuri and Berads at Mudhol. 1910 -- Veer Sindhur Laxman rebelled against Sansthanik at Jat ant British, was killed by treachery. Vajya - Baijya - fought against Saranjamdar at Kukudwad Dist Satara. 1942 - 'Quit India' movement and formed 'prati sarkar' - parellel Government. Most Ramoshis of Satara Sangali Pune Districts participated.In olden days the boya chiefs were known as Bedars and hence Kannappa was also known as BEDARA KANNAPPA in kannada as bedara is a well known terminlogy in Kannada due to Vijayanagar empire in Hampi.
Webmaster Kokolu Ankarao Date : Nagpur, Maharastra, India
Webmaster Kokolu Anka Rao Date : 08/08/08 Nagpur, Maharastra, India
BOYA KANNAPPA Aliases: Kannappa Nayanar is also known as Boya Tinnadu, Thinnappan, Tinnappan, Thinnan, Kannappan, Kannappa Nayanar or Nayanmar, Kannan, Bhakta Kannappan, Boya Kannappa, Bedara Kannappa, Dheeran, Kannabeswara
• Shaivam.org: Kannappa Nayanar • Srividya.org: Kannappa Nayanar
