Note 138 — B (continued 3)

Bhangi.138—The sweeper tribe of Hindustân. About the derivation of the word there is some difference of opinion. It is usually derived from the Sanskrit bhanga, “hemp,” in allusion to the drunken habits of the tribe. Mr. Nesfield would derive it from the same word in the sense of “interruption,” as a Hindu must give up whatever he is doing when he is touched by a sweeper. The Benares sweepers say that the word is a corruption of sarbhanga (sârva-bhanga), in the sense that while part of the Hindu community they are isolated from it. There are various titles used to designate the tribe. Thus they are known in the Western districts of the province and in the Panjâb as Chûhra, Chûra, or Chûhara, which is by some derived from their business of collecting or sweeping up scraps (chûra-jhârna), while Mr. Nesfield, with perhaps less probability, connects it with chûha, “a rat,” which would make them eaters of rats and mice like the Musahars of the Eastern districts. They are also known as Mehtar or “prince,” which is a honorific title of various classes, such as Bhatiyâra, Mochi, Qasâi, etc., and seems to have been used ironically, as cooks, tailors, or barbers are called Khalîfa. In connection with this it is important to note that the Bediyas of Bengal call their leaders Bhangi or hemp-drinkers, as a title of honour.139 The name Mehtar was commonly applied to the servants of the Emperor Humâyun.140 Another title for them is Halâlkhor, “one who eats what is lawful, one whose earnings are legitimate.” This euphemistic title is said to have been introduced by the Emperor Akbar.141 They are also known as Khâkrob, or “sweepers of dust,” and Bâharwâla, “one who is not admitted into the house.” Another euphemistic name for them in the Punjâb is Musalli, “one who prays.” From their religion and patron saint they are sometimes known, collectively, as Lâlbegi, which is really the name for one of their sub-castes.