Castes and Tribes of Southern India. Vol. 3 of 7

A scientific publication written in the early 20th century. The book provides an extensive ethnographic survey of various castes and tribes in Southern India, delving into their customs, occupations, social structures, and religious practices. This volume specifically focuses on the Kabberas and Kadirs, detailing their way of life, social hierarchy, and unique traditions, providing a rich tapestry of cultural insights. The opening of the work introduces the Kabberas, a caste of Canarese fishermen and cultivators, describing their divisions and social practices, such as marriage customs and religious rites. It goes on to reveal vibrant details about their lifestyles, including the use of coracles for fishing and the various occupational sub-divisions that exist among them. Following this, a detailed account of the Kadirs is provided, illustrating their nomadic habits, forest-based livelihoods, and intriguing cultural traditions, including distinctive methods of climbing and honey gathering, alongside their unique culinary preferences and burial practices. The beginning serves as a comprehensive introduction to the considerable diversity and complexity of castes and tribes in Southern India, offering a wealth of information for the reader interested in anthropology or Indian culture.