In the caste system, after many transitions, several castes were formed—one of them being the Perki caste. When studying this caste, it appears closely related to several others. In fact, there is strong evidence to suggest that these castes originally belonged to one common group.
Although these communities split into different groups over time, the cultural links remain intact. Their customs, occupations, and practices show remarkable similarities. For example, the Kapu caste is a major caste in Andhra Pradesh and is comparable to the Kunbi caste in Maharashtra. Broadly speaking, most farmers in India live in villages. They were originally called Kulambi (tillers), later became known as Kunbi, and eventually split into many sub-castes. The Kapus too followed a similar path. In South India, most farmers are referred to as Kapu, from which many sub-castes also originated.
The word Kapu means “protector” or “watchman.” Kapus are also called Reddy, which literally means “king.” This signifies their dual role: protectors of the people as farmers and rulers protecting subjects as kings. Over time, many branches and sub-castes evolved from the Kapu-Reddy group. Each group created stories to establish its distinct identity, but the underlying similarities were never erased. The Perki caste is believed to have originated as one of these branches.
On the other hand, as kings, they protected their people. That is why the Kapu are also called Reddy, and the Reddy are called Kapu. However, in later times, many branches and sub-castes emerged from this Kapu-Reddy community. Each caste created its own legends to explain its origin and tried to assert its distinct identity. Yet, the underlying similarities between them were never completely erased. The Perki caste too seems to be connected with these groups in some way. Therefore, let us examine some castes closely related to the Perki: