Devadiga
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Devadiga are a Tulu speaking Hindu community from the region of Tulu Nadu in the south west of India, which comprises the districts of Udupi and Dakshina Kannada in the Indian state of Karnataka.
Origins
The name "Devadiga" is derived from archaic Kannada term "Deva Adiga". Devadigas are also called by the names Sherigar, Moily, Shriyan, Bhandary(in north Canara), Rao and many more with respect to the area they live and language they speak.
Language
Tulu is the main language spoken by Devadigas. In northern region of South Canara district, Devadigas speak Kundagannada Dialect. Devadigas live in temple surroundings.
Worship of Spirits
Tulu regions have Bhoota kola and Nema, a kind of spirit worship. Devadigas were an important part of this native worship. Dhoomavathi, Panjurli, Kalkudi, Varthe, Marl jumadi, Kodimanithaya, Maisandaya and Jarandaya are some of the most common Bhutas worshiped by the community.
Traditions of Devadigas
Aliya kattu
Aliya kattu or Aliya santana, was a matrilineal system of property inheritance practiced by some communities in coastal Karnataka. In Aliya kattu system, the mother's family takes control of the family and property matters. The family functions such as Bhootha Kola will be performed initiated from mother's family. As with Other Tulu Communities Devadigas Follow Aliyakattu in Relation with Bari System of mothers Lineage.
Yakshaganas
Yakshagana is a Tulu and Kannada classical folk art form in India mostly popular in Tulu Nadu areas of South India. Devadigas contributed to the development of this folk dance, which was taught in Yakshagana mandalis.