HAKKI PIKKIS – GEOGRAPHY

News: 108 from Hunsur, H.D. Kote ‘stranded’ in Sudan

 

What's in the news?

       As many as 108 ‘Hakki-Pikki’ tribals from Hunsur and H.D. Kote taluks in Mysuru district are learnt to be stranded in violence-hit Sudan.

 

Hakki Pikki:

       The Hakki Pikki is a tribe that lives in several states in west and south India, especially near forest areas.

       According to the 2011 census, the Hakki Pikki population in Karnataka is 11,892, and they live majorly in Davangere, Mysuru, Kolar, Hassan and Shivamogga districts. In different regions, they are known by different names, such as Mel-Shikari in northern Karnataka and Maharashtra.

       Hakki Pikkis (Hakki in Kannada means ‘bird’ and Pikki means ‘catchers’) are a semi-nomadic tribe, traditionally of bird catchers and hunters.

       The society is matriarchal, where the groom gives dowry to the bride’s family.

 

How do they get caught in Africa?

       They are learnt to possess some traditional medicinal knowledge and are therefore said to be in demand in some African countries.

 

Further Reference - Conflict in Sudan - 19.04.2023