Katodis

Katodis, aborigines of North Konkan, northern extremity of the Western Ghats, west coast of India; probably a branch of the Varalis, and like them are low-castes, regarded as impure by the Hindus, who nevertheless fear them for their reputed magic power. The Katodis are one of the most degraded people in India, feeding on rats, reptiles, and even carrion, and worshipping the Acacia catechu, the tree from which they extract the Mt (terra japonica), which is their chief occupation.