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Chamar ( from the Sanskrit Charmakara) is a prominent Dalit caste in India.
Background
It is not clear whether the term Chamar is actually an occupational term or a name of a race of people indigenous to the Indian Subcontinent.
Chamars were traditionally engaged in profession such as Leatherworking and Shoemaking. However, many Chamars living in rural areas have branched out into other occupations such as Weaving. Because of their Dalit status, which was considered to be the lowest in the Indian Caste System, over the centuries, the Chamars have been subjected to discrimination, as a result of which many of them remain poor and backward to this day.
Chamars in the Punjab
Chamars are among the biggest castes in India. In the Punjab, they are divided into various groups such as Ad-dharmis, Ramdasias and Ravidasis. They are highly concentrated in the Doaba region of Punjab (India).
The Chamars of Doaba are rich and educated. Due the influence of Sikhism and the preference of the British for Sikh soldiers, many Chamar Sikhs, were able to serve in the military and thus improve their social and economic status. A lot of Chamars from Doaba have been migrating to the USA, the UK, Canada, the Middle East and other countries and send a lot of money back.
One of the most decorated regiments of the Indian Army is the Sikh Light Infantary, which is composed mostly of Chamar and Mazhabi Sikhs.
The Dalit political party, the BSP is a powerful force in the Indian political environment.
Famous Chamars
See also
- Karmabhoomi by Premchand
External Links
Chamar | Social groups of India | Caste | Dalit | Punjab
"Chamar"