Dhami are considered as guardians of the two sacred clusters Ramshila and Pretashila hills. Here shraddha sacrificers are escorted by the acharyas to make offerings to lord Yama, several gods and goddesses and ghosts and spirits. The rituals are conducted at these places by the Dhami. Dhami priests call themselves as `Pretiya Brahman` as they are associated with worship of ghosts and spirits. It is believed by the Ghayawal and locals that Dhamis are non Brahmanical priests.
Some consider them as the florist caste who resides in a locality of Gaya named after the Dhami. The Dhami however still continues to raise jajmans, maintain khata as well as carry on an independent priestly profession. As per traditions the Dhami should be revered and given gifts at the hill-shrines. They remain inseparable part of the same ritual complex. Dhami are remnants of ancient tribal priesthood.
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