Kuruba Community: Origins and History

The Kuruba community is one of the oldest and most prominent groups in South India, particularly concentrated in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. They are the third-largest caste group in Karnataka, with a population of nearly 8 million in the state.

Etymology and Traditional Occupation

• The word Kuruba comes from kuri (sheep in Kannada), directly linking them to shepherding.

• Traditionally, Kurubas were shepherds and pastoralists, raising mixed herds of sheep, goats, and cattle.

• Many Kurubas also practiced agriculture, often combining farming with animal husbandry.

• Even today, pastoralism remains a central occupation for many, with some groups maintaining a semi-nomadic lifestyle.

Historical Roots

• Oral traditions trace Kuruba ancestry back to Neolithic farming villages in South India, where cattle-keeping and agriculture were practiced.

• Over time, some groups shifted toward sheep pastoralism, absorbing influences from Mesolithic hunter-gatherers.

• The Kurubas are considered among the oldest existing communities in India, with deep cultural ties to Kannada language and traditions.

Political and Cultural Influence

• Kurubas have a long history of rulership in South India.

  • They are linked to the Pallava Kingdom (Tamil Nadu) and the Hoysala Kingdom (Karnataka).

  • Their greatest prominence came under the Vijayanagara Empire (13th–15th century), where Kuruba rulers and warriors played a significant role in governance and military expansion.

• The community is often associated with valor, trustworthiness, and knowledge-seeking, as reflected in interpretations of the word Kuruba (from Sanskrit Kuru – “seek” and Kannada Kuruhu – “trust”).

Social and Cultural Identity

• Kurubas are known for their strong attachment to Kannada language and culture.

• Dietary practices vary, but many are non-vegetarian, reflecting their pastoral lifestyle.

• They have historically been a community of warriors, shepherds, and agriculturists, embodying resilience and adaptability.