Bidri (tribe)

The Bidri are an indigenous tribal community primarily found in the state of Karnataka, India. They are classified as a Scheduled Tribe by the Indian government. Historically, the Bidri have been associated with traditional occupations such as hunting, gathering, and agriculture. Their distinct cultural identity is characterized by unique customs, traditions, and social structures. The Bidri language, a dialect or variant of Kannada, is spoken within the community, though many also speak standard Kannada. While the Bidri primarily reside in rural areas, increasing exposure to mainstream society has led to changes in their traditional lifestyle and cultural practices. Government initiatives and non-governmental organizations often work to improve the socio-economic conditions of the Bidri and preserve their cultural heritage. Information regarding the specific population numbers and sub-groups within the Bidri community can vary across sources and regions.