Kota tribe
Origins and Location
- The Kotas (also called Kothar or Kov) are one of the indigenous Dravidian-speaking peoples of the Nilgiri Mountains in Tamil Nadu.
- Their population has historically been small, around 1,500–2,000 individuals, spread across seven villages.
- They are recognized as a Scheduled Tribe in India, reflecting their status as original inhabitants (รยdivรยsi).
Language and Identity
- The Kota language, known as kร ยv mรยnt, is closely related to the language of the neighboring Toda tribe.
- Most Kotas also speak Tamil, another Dravidian language.
- In their own ethnonym, they call themselves Kov, while “Kota” is the English designation.
Religion and Beliefs
- The Kotas traditionally practiced their own Kota religion, though many also follow Hinduism today.
- Their rituals and festivals are deeply tied to their artisan and musical traditions.
Culture and Occupations
- Historically, the Kotas were artisans and musicians, serving as essential providers of tools, pottery, and wooden implements for neighboring tribes like the Toda and Badaga.
- Each Kota family was traditionally linked to Toda and Badaga families, creating a mutual exchange system of goods and services.
- Music and dance play a central role in their cultural identity, often performed during rituals and community gatherings.
