What is Devadiga Community

The Devadiga community, also known as Moily, Sherigar, Shriyan is a unique and ancient Hindu caste hailing from the southwestern regions of India. Their history and contributions are deeply rooted in the rich culture and traditions of the land. In this blog article, we will delve into the fascinating world of the Devadiga community, exploring their heritage, beliefs, and significant roles in Hindu temples.

Origins and Geography: The Devadiga people have their origins in the sacred land of Lord Parashurama, a region stretching from Karwar in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka to Kasaragod district in Kerala, along the west coast of India.

Temple Servants and Musicians: One of the most notable aspects of the Devadiga community’s history is their traditional role as temple servants and musicians in Hindu temples. Devadigas have played a pivotal role in maintaining the sanctity and operations of temples.

Spirit Players and Drummers: Devadigas are also renowned for their role as spirit players and drummers in ancient Hindu temples. Their primary duty involves performing as the official temple spirits, often wielding swords and engaging in spirited dances in front of the temple’s chief deity. This ritual, known as ”bali” or ”bali barpini,” marks the deity’s divine rounds within the temple precincts. Additionally, Devadigas perform a variety of other tasks within the temple, including cleaning, lighting oil lamps, and playing musical instruments.

Languages and Inheritance Systems: The primary language spoken by Devadigas is Tulu, which reflects their deep-rooted connection to the culture of the region. Devadigas adhere to the traditional Tulu system of matrilineal inheritance, known as ”Aliya Kattu.” In this system, inheritance is passed from an uncle to his nephew through the mother’s lineage. In some areas of Karnataka, particularly in Uttara Kannada, Shimoga, and Chikkamagaluru, Devadigas also speak Kannada and follow the Hindu system of patrilineal inheritance, known as ”Makkala Kattu.”

Religious Beliefs: The Devadiga community is known for its strong religious beliefs rooted in Hinduism. They worship a pantheon of Hindu deities, including Shiva, Vishnu, Surya, Durga, and Ganesh. Like many Hindus, they believe in appeasing spirits and divine beings that inhabit natural objects and phenomena. In some temples, Devadigas serve as mediums for spirit possession during rituals. Devadigas also practice Bhoota Kola, a native spirit worship tradition prevalent in the coastal districts of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi in Karnataka. They are known for their deep connection to this unique form of spiritual expression. The Devadiga community is a testament to the cultural diversity and richness of India. As temple servants, musicians, and spirit players, they have preserved and enriched the Hindu traditions of the region for generations. With their unique matrilineal and patrilineal inheritance systems and their deep connection to the Tulu language and culture, the Devadigas are a community that stands as a living embodiment of India’s cultural heritage. Their history and contributions serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving and celebrating the traditions that make India a land of diverse and vibrant cultures. The Devadiga community, with its unique role in Hindu temples and strong sense of identity, continues to be an essential part of the cultural mosaic of India.