Chuhra
Chuhra, also known as Bhanghi and Balmiki, is a Dalit caste in India and Pakistan. Populated regions include the Punjab region of India and Pakistan, as well as Uttar Pradesh in India, among other parts of the Indian subcontinent such as southern India. Their traditional occupation is sweeping, a "polluting" occupation that caused them to be considered untouchables in the caste system.
Chuhra | |
---|---|
चूहड़ा چُوہْڑا | |
Jāti | Harijan |
Gotra | N/A |
Religions | Hinduism, Islam, Christianity and Sikhism |
Country | India, Pakistan and Nepal |
Lineage | Valmiki and Satakarni |
Status | Scheduled Caste category |
Reservation (Education) | Yes |
Originally following the Balmiki sect of Hinduism, many Chuhras converted to Sikhism, Islam and Christianity during the colonial era in India. Today, Chuhras in Indian Punjab are largely followers of Sikhism. A minority continue to follow Hinduism, which incorporates elements of Sikhism in its practices, as well as Christianity. In Pakistani Punjab 90-95% of its Christian population are Dalit Christians of the Chuhra caste; other Chuhras practice Islam or continue to follow Hinduism.