- Source: Hakkipikki
The Hakkipikki is a major tribal community currently found mostly in Karnataka, India, in the Shivamogga, Davanagere and Mysuru districts. They are also known as Haranashikari, Pashi pardhi, Adavichencher and Shikari. The word Hakkipikki literally means In Kannada, the word "Hakki" means "bird," and "Pikki" refers to the verb "to catch." Thus, the community is traditionally known as the "bird catchers," reflecting their traditional occupation. The community speaks an indo-aryan language called 'Vaagri' or 'Vaagribooli', which is similar to the Gujarati language.
History
Research studies have found that they are kshatriyas, or warrior communities who share an ancestral relationship with the legendary Rana Pratap, King of Mewar. After the defeat of Rana Pratap, the community dispersed throughout India. The Hakkipikki community migrated from Northern India and are native to Gujarat and Rajasthan, having migrated south through Andhra Pradesh before settling in Karnataka long ago.
Social structure
The Hakkipikki follow a matriachical social structure and practice endogamy and monogamy. During marriages, the cost of weddings is borne by the groom and his family, and they also have to pay dowry to the bride's people.
