Agaria (Muslim)
| Total population | |
|---|---|
| (15,000) | |
| Regions with significant populations | |
| • India • Pakistan | |
| Languages | |
| • Gujarati • Kutchi | |
| Religion | |
•  Islam 100% • | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| • Agri |
The Agaria are a Muslim community found in the state of Gujarat in India.[1]
Origin
The Agaria derive their name from the city of Agra in North India. According to their traditions, they were substantial landowners and came to the attention of the local Muslim governor, who demanded women from the community. The Agaria refused and were imprisoned by the governor. But Firsad, a grandson of the famous Sufi saint Moinuddin Chishti, helped the community escape, and as a gratitude converted to Islam. The community may be Muslim converts from the Hindu Agri caste. They are concentrated in the taluqas of Bhuj, Matra, Mandvi[Dhrub] [mundra] and Lohario.[1]
Present circumstances
The Agaria speak Kutchi, with many members of the community also speaking Gujarati. They are an endogamous community and consist of a number of clans, the main ones being the Lulatar, Bayotmona, Gadyatar, Agiotar, Makatar, Admotor, Pilatar, Buburia, Dadoria, and Taravia. All these clans are of equal status, and intermarry. The Agaria are one of the few Gujarati Muslim communities that practice clan exogamy. They are Sunni Muslims but practice many folk beliefs.[1]
The Agaria are traditionally cultivators, and most families own a good amount of land. A small number of Agaria are landless agricultural labourers. The Agaria normally grow two crops in a year, where irrigation is available, they grow three crops. Crops grown include wheat, chilli, tomatoes, cotton, groundnuts, and sugarcane.