[468] The Lingayets are members of the Vira Saiva sect, or worshippers of Siva as the Linga, a representation of which they carry round their necks. The sect is numerous in the central and southern parts of the peninsula. It is of modern origin, having been founded by a Brahmin of Kalyan in the middle of the 12th century. Its members deny the sanctity of the Brahmins and the authority of the Vedas, recognize various divinities, and virtually abolish the distinction of castes and the inferiority of women. They are divided into Aradhyas, by birth Brahmins, and often well versed in Sanscrit literature; Jangamas, who have a literature of their own, written in Karnata and Telugu; and Bhaktas.—Wilson's Indian Glossary, p. 311.
[469] The whole population of Coorg is about 119,160.
[470] Namely, the Amma Kodagas or Cauvery Brahmins; the Kodagas or chief tribe; the Himbokulu or herdsmen; the Heggade or cultivators; the Ari or carpenters; the Badige or smiths; the Kuruba or honey gatherers; the Kavati or jungle cultivators; the Budiya or drawers of toddy from the Caryota urens palm; the Meda or basket-makers; the Kaleya or farm-labourers; the Holeya or slaves; and the Yerawa or slaves from Malabar, cheaper than cattle.
[471] Coorg, by Rev. H. Moegling. (Mangalore, 1855.)
[472] Observations by Dr. R. Baikie. Madras Journal, 1837, vi. p. 342.
1860-61.
| Revenue of Coorg. | Expenditure. | ||
| Land revenue | £14,727 | General expenditure | £10,211 |
| Excise and stamps | 3,611 | Public works | 1,153 |
| Income tax | 98 | ||
| Miscellaneous | 8,300 | ||
| £26,736 | £11,364 | ||
[474] Seemann's Popular History of the Palms, p. 134.
[475] Moegling's Coorg, pp. 74-77; also Buchanan's Travels, ii. p. 511, and Drury's Useful Plants of India.