The Legacy of Muslim Rule in India c12.s3.15

c12.s3.15

Only one or two cases of *tablighi* endeavour may be discussed in some detail. We have spoken of the MolisIams of Gujarat. MolisIams or Maula-i-Salaam are so called as they bear the *Mohar* or stamp of Islam. Else they are Hindus and are known as Garasiyas. Originally Rajputs, they were converted in the time of Sultan Mahmud Beghara (1458-1511). They are about two lakhs in number and live mainly in Bharuch, Kheda and Ahmedabad. Many of the Garasiyas have both Hindu and Muslim names. They have retained their Hindu customs and traditions. In their marriages *mandap*-setting ceremony and *garba*-type dance are prominent. Their marriages are performed both by Maulvis and Brahmans. But recently efforts have been made to wean them away from their Hindu ways and turn them into confirmed Muslims.