Powerful caste in tulunadu

Powerful caste in Tulunadu- Billava

The Billava community is considered one of the powerful and influential castes in Tulu Nadu (Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Kasaragod).

After a WhatsApp status went viral in Karnataka, Google search shows a powerful caste in Tulunadu. The First Result in Google search is Billava. 

The Billava, Poojary, Billoru, and Biruveru people are an ethnic group of India. 

But the modern Billavas are more powerful in showing their Hinduism. Caste is only for unity, not for discrimination

As Narayana Guru says. One God, One Dharma, and One Caste.

As per Billavas, all castes are equal and all are humans.

Why Billavas are powerful in Tulu Nadu

  1. Numerical Strength

    • Billavas are one of the largest communities in coastal Karnataka. Their population gives them a significant social and political presence.

  2. Historical Role

    • Traditionally, toddy tappers (Iruvaththaya), farmers, temple servants (Poojary), and warriors.

    • They were closely connected with the worship of Daivas (spirit deities) and local shrines, giving them strong cultural influence.

  3. Religious & Cultural Contribution

    • Billavas are known as guardians of Bhoota/Daiva traditions (spirit worship).

    • Many famous Daivasthanas (like Kukkinje, Ullal, Mulki) are historically linked to Billava service and leadership.

  4. Social Reform

    • The great social reformer Sri Narayana Guru (1856–1928) uplifted the Billavas by preaching “One Caste, One Religion, One God” and establishing temples (e.g., the famous Shree Gokarnanatha Temple in Mangalore was built by Billavas under his guidance).

  5. Political Power

    • Due to their numbers, Billavas hold considerable weight in local politics. Many MLAs, MPs, ministers, and leaders from coastal Karnataka come from the Billava community.

    • They are often seen as a deciding force in elections in Tulu Nadu.

  6. Economic Progress

    • From traditional occupations, many Billavas have moved into business, education, government jobs, entrepreneurship, and Gulf migration, boosting their financial power.

Billava Identity Today

  • The Billavas are no longer just seen by their traditional occupation, but as a progressive, united, and politically strong community in Tulu Nadu.

  • They are respected for their cultural heritage, Daiva traditions, and contributions to society.

👉 Would you like me to also give you a list of famous Billava leaders and reformers who made the community powerful in Tulu Nadu?

TO KNOW ABOUT BILLAVA BARIS (SURNAMES) CLICK HERE

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