Kota

The name “Kota” is derived from the Dravidian root word “Ko” meaning “the
mountain”. The Kotas are known by several names like Koter, Kotas and Kove.
Kotas whose population is stood at 2544 in 2011 and found to be living in all
the four taluks, in Nilgiris. They call their village “Kokkal”. They are also
known for their traditional pottery and carpentry. They claim to be blacksmith by
profession and they make agricultural equipment and war weapons. The Kotas
worship fire, the moon, and the nature, and perform their Pujas in front of the
peepal tree. Kotas traditional garment is known as "varad," a white bedspread
cloth is thrown around the body by men and women. Kotas consider themselves to
be Hindus. The major Kota deities are Aynor (Lord Shiva) Kamatraya and Amnor
(Lord Parvathi) Kamatiswari.