![]() History of Mahar Community It has been claimed that the Mahars were the earliest settlers in Maharashtra but were pushed out by the invading Aryans. They belong to the early marital race of the country. Mahars claim that they are the descendents of ‘Mahamuni’, an orphan picked up by Goddess Parvati from the banks of Ganga River. ![]() Mahars have a well-organised society. Mahar community has several sub-divisions basically of a territorial or local type such as Daharia, residents of Dahar, Baonia of Berar, Khandeshi from Khandesh and Nemadya from Nimar. The highest division in their society are the Somvanshis. Further, there are certain exogamous groups in Mahar community, whose names are derived from animals, plants and other natural objects. Some of the interesting names are Darpan, Khanda Phari, Aglavi, Andhare, Khobragade, Bhajikhai and so on. A man is not allowed to marry within his own clan. Regarding funeral rites, Mahars either bury or burn the dead. A new born baby is named either on the 7th or the 12th day. They celebrate various festivals like Nagpanchami, Dussehra, Holi and more. Profession of Mahar Community The main occupation of the people belonging to Mahar community is weaving. However, in the present times, they have also started working in mills. In the 14th century, a Mahar poet named Chokhamela joined the ranks of the cult's pantheon of saints. His poems and those of his wife and son are sung even today by devout bhaktas. In appearance the Mahars look much like the agriculturists of Maharashtra, the Marathas. Mahar Regiment was one of the prominent infantry of the national army of independent India. In many ways, the long struggle for a self respecting identity has finally led the Mahars into the mainstream of Indian life. |
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Mahar Community