A History of the Mahrattas v1.c7.156.1

v1.c7.156.1

¹ The following are the twelve Balowtay, and twelve Alowtay, according to the general, but not universal opinion of the Mahrattas;—First, Balowtay.—The head of the twelve Balowtay is the carpenter [Sutār]. Second, the blacksmith [Lohār]. Third, the shoemaker and currier [Chamār.] Fourth, the Mhar, or Dher. This is a person of the very lowest order of Shunkerjatee, except the Mang; but on the village establishment his duties are very important. The Mhar acts as scout, as guide, frequently as watchman; he cleans travellers' horses, and is obliged, if required, to carry the travellers' baggage; he is a principal guardian of the village boundaries, and in Maharashtra, the Mhars are a very active, useful, and intelligent race of people. Fifth, the Mang, makes all leather ropes, thongs, whips, &c., used by the cultivators; he frequently acts as watchman; he is by profession a thief and executioner; he readily hires himself as an assassin, and when he commits a robbery, he also frequently murders. The Mangs are not so intelligent as the Mhars: both the one and the other eat the carcases of cattle that have died of disease, and are exceedingly filthy in many respects. Sixth, the potter [Kumbhār]. Seventh, the barber [Nhāvī]. Eighth, the washerman [Dhobī]. Ninth, the goorow [Gurav], who is a Shooder employed to wash, ornament, and attend the idol in the village temple; and on occasions of feasting, to prepare the patrowlee or leaves, which the Hindoos substitute for plates.