Bunt (community)

Bunt refers to a specific endogamous community primarily found in the coastal regions of Karnataka and Kerala, India. They are traditionally a landowning agricultural community with historical connections to military service. The term "Bunt" is believed to be derived from the Kannada word "bhunta," meaning "soldier" or "warrior."

Historically, the Bunt community held considerable social and political influence in the region, controlling land and resources. They developed a distinct social structure, including a system of matrilineal inheritance known as aliya santana, where property and lineage are traced through the female line. This system has been largely replaced by patrilineal inheritance in modern times.

Bunt society is organized into various clans or gotras, with members typically practicing Hinduism and revering deities like Naga (serpent deity), various forms of Shakti, and ancestral spirits. Tulu, Kannada and Konkani are commonly spoken by the community depending on the specific region.

The Bunt community has seen significant socio-economic changes in recent decades. Many members have migrated to urban areas and pursued diverse professions, leading to a decline in their traditional agricultural dominance. Despite these changes, the Bunt community continues to maintain its cultural identity and traditions through various social organizations, cultural events, and community gatherings. They are known for their distinct cuisine, traditional dances like Yakshagana, and unique rituals.