Kasgar

The Kasgar are a Muslim community, found in the state of Uttar Pradesh in India .[1] After independence of Pakistan in 1947, many Kasgar migrated and resettled in Pakistan. They are now found mainly in Sindh province and have become part of Muhajir community. Some people say that they are of Arab origin.

History and present circumstances

The Kasgar (from Persian کاسگر meaning goblet-makers) are an occupational group who are makers of the kas kuza (Persian: کاسه کوزه) goblets and other earthen pots. They are concentrated in the Awadh region of Uttar Pradesh. Information regarding the origin of the community is obscure. The Kasgar are an endogamous community, and they practice both parallel and cross cousin marriages.

Among the Kasgar, the caste council known as a panchayat, plays an important role in resolving disputes among the community. They perceive themselves to be of Shaikh status. The community is split by sectarian affiliation, with some members belonging to the Shia sects, while others are Sunni.[2]

References

  1. People of India Uttar Pradesh Volume XLII Part Two edited by A Hasan & J C Das pages 747 to 750
  2. People of India Uttar Pradesh Volume XLII edited by A Hasan & J C Das page 746
This article is issued from Wikipedia - version of the Saturday, May 09, 2015. The text is available under the Creative Commons Attribution/Share Alike but additional terms may apply for the media files.