History:
The KODAVA surname is derived from the Kodava community of South India. The Kodavas are an ethnic group native to the Coorg district of Karnataka.
The Kodavas are believed to have descended from the Kodagu kingdom which was established in the 16th century. The Kodagu kingdom was ruled by the Haleri dynasty and later by the Mysore rulers. The Kodavas were known for their martial skills and were often recruited into the armies of the various rulers.
Description:
The Kodavas have a distinct culture and traditions which are similar to those of the other South Indian communities. They are known for their hospitality and respect for elders. The Kodavas are also known for their traditional dress, which includes a turban, a dhoti and a shawl.
The Kodavas follow a number of customs which are unique to the community. These include the celebration of festivals such as Puthari, which is celebrated in honour of the goddess Bhagavati. Another important custom is the practice of ancestor worship.
The Kodava surname is found in various forms in different parts of South India. In Karnataka, it is usually spelled as Kodava, while in Kerala it is spelled as Kodavar or Kodavarayar.
