Loyola Educational Institutions, Mundgod

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The Siddhis, who are classified at are descendants of African slaves and have a long history of marginalization in India. They were brought to the subcontinent as slaves during the Portuguese colonial era and later integrated into Indian society. They struggle to maintain their cultural identity. Their African heritage is often overlooked, and they face pressure to assimilate into mainstream Indian culture. Land ownership and rights are contentious issues. Siddhis have faced displacement due to development projects or land grabs. Stereotypes about their African origins persist, leading to prejudice and discrimination. 

The Siddhis were originally a nomadic group who sustained themselves through hunting, fishing, and gathering activities. Over time, they have transitioned from their traditional forest-based economy to other livelihoods such as agricultural labor, watchmen, truck drivers, teachers, social workers, and craftsmen.  Factors like limited land ownership, unfavorable employer-employee relationships, indebtedness, and scarce resources contribute to their economic hardships. 

The Golla and Gowlies are a pastoral community primarily living in the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana with smaller numbers in Karnataka. They are classified as Other Backward Castes(OBC) by the Indian government.  

They are traditionally cowherds, but they engage in both sheep/goat and cattle pastoralism, in that they either herd exclusively sheep, a mixed herd of sheep and goats, or cattle. Originating from a background of tending livestock, they have established a distinctive social structure and set of customs over time. Within their community, various sub-castes exist, often designated by occupation and geographical location.