Adi Karnataka
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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' referring them as "once belonging to Kshatriya Kula which were called has Samanta or Moolakanadiga Kula (original people of Karnataka)".[4][5] They have been described as service-oriented group, with women wearing Sari and blouse and men wearing headgear with towel.[6][7]
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 (or artisans) were made responsible for work like farming, hunting and state's security.[8]