There are several local derivations of the name Bhuria. The Bhulias hold a higher position among the weaver caste. Bhulia caste has no sub-castes. However, in Kalahandi a section is recognised as Sanpara Bhulias. The caste has two gotras, namely Nagas derived from the cobra and Kachhap from the tortoise. These gotras have no influence on marriage in their communities. Marriage in Bhulia caste is regulated by various exogamous groups called vansa. The names of these vansas are either derived from villages or are titles or some nicknames. For example, two of them, Bagh (tiger) and Kimir (crocodile), are totemistic, while two others namely Kumhar (potter) and Dhuba (washerman) are names of other castes. Some more examples of titular caste names are Bankra (crooked), Ranjujha (warrior), Kodjit (one who has conquered numerous people) and others. The territorial names of the sub-castes of Bhulias have been derived from those of villages where they reside presently. In Bhulia community, marriage within the same exogamous groups is forbidden. They have certain customs and rituals associated with wedding ceremonies. The bridegroom is supposed to carry the bride in a basket seven times round the sacrificial fire. And if he is unable to do so, the girl's grandfather carries both of them. After the wedding ceremony the couple return to the village of the bridegroom. Remarriage of widows is allowed in this caste. Divorce is also permitted. Bhulia people eat flesh and also drink liquor. The position of Bhulia caste corresponds to the position of Koshtas. |