Anantapur: Jogappas' unending hunt for their daily bread

Anantapur: A traditional sect of Shaivite devotees called Jogappa in west and southern parts of Anantapur, Kurnool and the adjacent Karnataka areas is still holding to its roots by following the dual culture of seeking offerings through traditional singing and hunting.

Jogappas occupy a respected, priestly position in the society: people seek their blessings to appease Lord Shiva. The community has a tradition to visit houses singing 'padas' (songs) on Lord Shiva and seeking offerings. There is a strong belief among the people in rural parts that offerings to Jogappas would keep their houses safe from scorpions and poisonous insects.

Interestingly, the other aspect of the Jogappa community is totally different. The community, which has no permanent settlement and opts for a temporary stay on village outskirts, still follows the tradition of hunting down small animals in the forest and hillock areas using crude weapons made of sticks and trained dogs.

Historian Mr Appireddy Harinath Reddy observed the Jogappa community still follows its hunting practices similar of olden days either for entertainment or for livelihood.

Normally, hunting is a tradition in Tribals and a few backward sections during special occasions like Dasara and Ugadi festivals, but in case of Jogappas, it is no need of any occasion.