The Antiquities of Orissa v1.c10.61

v1.c10.61

It is not to be denied that in Bengal, with the exception of the *Ācāryas* who are employed in making dresses for idols, and noted for their expertness in darning, tailoring is now the special profession of Musalmans; but elsewhere the case is not so. Mr. Sherring observes: "In addition to the Mahommedans engaged in this calling, there is a considerable number of Hindus of **[ 84 ]** an inferior caste, who pursue it likewise. They are a separate tribe, and are divided into seven sub-castes or clans, as follows:—1. Śrī Bāstab; 2. Nām Deo; 3. Tāñcāra; 4. Dhaneś; 5. Panjābī; 6. Gour; 7. Kantak". An eighth is also found in Benares named Tākseri.³⁹