Introduction / HistoryTheir name comes from a word meaning "pole." Most work as mendicants, dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara, god of Tirupathi. Others work increasingly in agriculture and as wage laborers. They speak Kannada and write in the Kannada script. Where are they located? The Chenna Dasar live primarily in Karnataka. Many also live in Maharashtra. In Karnataka they primarily live in Dharwad and Belgaum. What are their lives like? They are not vegetarians, but do avoid eating beef and pork. They also drink alcoholic beverages on special occasions. Marriages are arranged and take place between two separate clans. The couple marry at adulthood in a ceremony that is celebrated at the home of the man. The subsequent marriage feast is celebrated at the home of the bride's family. A cash bride price is paid for the girl. What are their beliefs? They are Hindus who worship Hanuman and Yellamma as their main deities. They also worship their ancestors. Their religious practitioners are Jogis. Text source: Joshua Project