| Karikala Bhaktulu | |
|---|---|
| Religions | Hinduism |
| Languages | Telugu |
| Populated states | Coastal Andhra andRayalaseema regions ofAndhra Pradesh,Tamilnadu,Pondicherry |
| Notable members | List of Sengunthars |
| Related groups | Senguntha Mudaliar of Tamilnadu |
Kaikalas also known as Karikala Bhaktulu is aTelugu-speaking community. They werewarriors by ancient heritage and traditionaltextilemerchants andweavers, by occupation. Kaikalas live in theCoastal Andhra andRayalaseema regions of theSouth Indian state ofAndhra Pradesh. They are also known as Karikala Bhaktulu, Kaikala, Kaikkolar,Sengundar.[1][2] InTamil Nadu, they are known asSenguntha Kaikola Mudaliar, one of the dominant communities during the rule ofImperial Cholas. During the rule ofChola dynasty, they formed major portion of theChola army and served as soldiers, commanders, chieftains and ministers to Chola emperors. They consider the Chola emperorKarikala Choludu as their hero who is said to have conquered Andhra region around 3rd century CE. After the fall of Chola empire, the community adopted textile businesses and Weaving as full time profession.
The community is divided into sects based onSampradaya asShaivas andVaishnavas. While the Shaivas give preference to worshippingShiva, the Vaishnavas give preference to worshippingThirumal.
The Kaikalas form a very important part of theThathayagunta Gangamma Jatara, the annual folk festival held atTirupati.[3]
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