Traditionally, members of the Namadhari Naik community have been engaged in agriculture, military service, and priesthood, though toddy tapping once formed an important source of income.

They are presumed to have been part of the Hindu kingdom of the Vijayanagara Empire, possibly serving as soldiers within its formidable military forces.

This is supported by Malabar traditions that speak of some Dravidian tribes migrating to Sri Lanka and then spreading along the northern coastal regions upon their return.

[1] The Bali names were often derived from nature, indicating a deep connection to the environment and possibly the occupations or social status within the community.

The hill territories of the Halepaikas were segmented into: 1) Yellapur 2) Sonda 3) Karwar 4) Sirsi 5) Hulekal 6) Banavasi 7) Isloor 8) Bilgi Each sector was composed of numerous villages, bound together by a shared identity and common traditions.

[1] The Halepaikas traditionally consume a variety of meats as part of their diet, including poultry, mutton and several types of fish.