The Kodava community appears to be in a dilemma over how to record their identity in the ongoing Social and Educational Survey being conducted by the government of Karnataka. At the heart of the debate is whether Kodavas should be registered as followers of the Hindu religion or as adherents of a separate ‘Kodava’ faith.A section of community leaders have been urging Kodavas to declare ‘Kodava’ in the caste, language, and religion columns, while another section has been appealing to people to continue identifying themselves as ‘Hindu’ in religion column.Paradanda Subramani Kaverappa, president of the Akhila Kodava Samaja, maintained that the community should be recorded as ‘Kodava’ across all three categories.“Before the 1941 census, Kodavas were classified as a rare and distinct tribal group. Kodavas do not follow caste divisions, sects, or a formalised religion,” he argued.The small population of Kodavas, which has been shrinking in recent decades, risks losing its unique cultural essence if subsumed within larger communities, he added.
“This survey could help establish a record for the future, especially when the Central Government carries out its census. We are encouraging people to document their identity as Kodava, but it is entirely voluntary”Paradanda Subramani KaverappaPresident, Akhila Kodava SamajaDiffering viewsMr. Kaverappa acknowledged that there are differing viewpoints within the community. A recent meeting convened by the Samaja failed to arrive at a consensus. He said that the choice ultimately rests with individuals.“There is no compulsion. Each family can decide for themselves. This survey is only meant to reflect the current social and economic situation of communities to the government,” Mr. Kaverappa said.He clarified that documenting Kodavas under a separate religion would not alter existing practices. “Even if people mention Kodava as their religion, traditional rituals, temple worship, and the influence of Hindu practices will continue as they always have. Our customs have drawn inspiration from Hinduism for generations,” he explained.Mr Kaverappa highlighted concerns among Kodava youth regarding shrinking opportunities. He said recognising Kodava as a distinct category could eventually open doors to benefits, such as reservations.“This survey could also help establish a record for the future, especially when the Central Government carries out its census. We are encouraging people to document their identity as Kodava, but it is entirely voluntary,” he added.
