The Samagara are a hard working people. They have followed the Hindu religion for ages, never having embraced other religions.

They live mainly in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra.

Their main occupation is the working of leather and manufacture of footwear popularly called Kolhapuri chappals. Presently a large number have switched over to other professions. Education among the present generation is on the rise.

A certain cluster of families is are highly educated and well settled.

Women join in the labor of the community and also wield power in making decisions.

In addition to Malayalam they also speak Kannada and Tula.

They have an unflinching faith in Hinduism. They are mostly devotees of Shiva and Durga. They worship in all types of temples. They conduct regular satsang on Sundays in Hyderabad.

They need financial help to rise out of poverty. Once given an opportunity, they will probably advance quickly.

* Scripture Prayers for the Samagara in India.

Sing, K. S., ed. India's Communities, Vol. VI, Oxford University Press, USA (June 3, 1999). pg. 3112