Kapu (caste)

Kapu is a Hindu caste mainly found in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. They are classified as a Forward caste. They are a community of land-owning agriculturists. Historically, they have also been warriors and military generals (Nayakas) in Hindu armies. They are a dominant caste of Andhra Pradesh. Kapus commonly carry the title Naidu. They are primarily present in Coastal Andhra with major concentration in the Godavari-Krishna delta region.

Telaga and Ontari are the Kapu subcastes. Traditionally, both were warrior communities known for their honour and bravery. The terms Kapu and Telaga are often used synonymously. The origins of Telagas have been linked to Telugu Choda dynasties like Durjayas of Velanadu (1076–1216 CE) who ruled Coastal Andhra and later came to be called Telagas over a period of time.

Kapu, Telaga and Ontari are all referred to as Kapu across Coastal Andhra except for the erstwhile Srikakulam and Vizianagaram districts where they are known as Telaga. Balija community of Rayalaseema is closely related to Kapu caste and both are often enumerated together in government, sociological and psephological contexts.

Kapus of Coastal Andhra are distinct from communities like the Munnuru Kapus of Telangana, the Turpu Kapus of Uttarandhra and Reddys of Rayalaseema and Telangana.