Parivara

Parivara is a term used in parts of India to refer to a kinship group, subcaste, or lineage within Hindu social organization. In Kannada-speaking regions, Parivara commonly denotes a subdivision within a larger caste, though the precise meaning and status vary by community and location. The word is derived from local terms for family or lineage.

In social practice, Parivara groups tend to be endogamous, with marriages often arranged within the group in many locales, and they maintain distinct surnames, rituals, and deities associated with their lineage. Customs, occupations, and degrees of ritual difference differ across regions, reflecting the diverse nature of Indian caste families.

Geographically, Parivara variants have been reported primarily in Karnataka and adjacent areas, with parallel terminologies or related groups in neighboring states. Because caste labels shift with time and policy, the identification and classification of Parivara can differ in census data and scholarly studies.

In contemporary debates, Parivara identities interact with state reservation policies, social reform movements, and migration, often influencing local social networks and genealogical research. Some communities identify Parivara as a historic lineage, while others recognize it as a practical category for kinship and social organization. While the term is not confined to a single, uniform group, it serves as a lens for understanding how lineage and social ties shape community life in various regional contexts.