Adi Karnataka The Adi Karnataka refers to group of people in Karnataka, India. Historically, they were known as âÂÂSamanthaâ and later âÂÂmoola kannadiga kulaâÂÂ, which translates to âÂÂoriginal Kannada clanâÂÂ.
Adi Karnataka is a social group in Karnataka Gazette.
In the mid-1830s, a British traveller named Kristopher Fellowman made considerable research on the community which is also called 'Samantha' and 'moola kannadiga kula'--once belonging to kshatriya Kula which were called has samanta or moolakanadiga kula.
The Samanthas divided their roles and responsibilities into 'Edgai' and 'Balgai' sub-groups, which translated into left and right hands, respectively. While the Balgais comprised monarchs and administrators, the Edgais (<artisan>)were made responsible for work like farming, hunting and state's security.
According to community narratives and emerging classifications, some groups identifying as Samantha Adi Karnataka also called as Right wing are associated with Kshatriya traditions, particularly in the context of historical âÂÂSamanthaâ (feudal or warrior) roles. There are also references to certain sub-groups being considered under Other Backward Classes (OBC) Category 2A in Karnataka.
The population is around 3 million, major settlement in south karnataka.
Adi Karnataka, Adi Andhra, Adi Dravida are similar terms used for section of people but they refer to distinct, separate communities, often confused as same.