Twashta Kasar

MahaKalika idol at Twashta Kasar Kalika Devi Mandir, Kasba Peth, Pune.

The Twashta Kasar (त्वष्टा कासार) is a caste of coppersmiths (tamrakar), predominantly in the Indian state of Maharashtra. They are also known as Tambat or Twashta Brahman.

Etymology

The word Tambat comes from "tamba" or copper in Marathi. The community claims descent from Twashta, third son of Vishwakarma, divine architect of universe.

Traditions

To make water pots of copper and brass is the hereditary business of this community. Over time the artisans refocused their business on making fancy designer showpieces of copper and brass.

The primary religion of Twashta Kasar is Hindu. The community worships Kalika as a guardian deity (Palak Devta). They have established "Twashta Kasar Samaj Samstha Kalika Mandir" in every city wherever they have a sizable population. The Samaj Samstha is a community center where they organize events. In Pune, the community has been celebrating Ganeshotsav since 1893.[1][2]

Twashta Kasar follow the Brahmins rituals, they have a custom of Upanayana, a threading ceremony as a Sanskar. They possess Brahminisitic gotras. They also have customs like Gondhal, a religious practice of the Maratha community in Maharashtra. Gondhal is performed in the house during auspicious occasions like weddings and thread ceremonies.

Geography

The Twastha Kasars are found predominantly in the Konkan region of Maharashtra. They have a sizable population in Mumbai, Thane, Pune, Nasik and Kolhapur and Goa.

The Colonies of this community are named Tambat Ali. They are an interconnected maze of streets where the coppersmiths have their workshops.

Notable people

S. S. Samel, Art Director of Bollywood films

References

  1. ↑ "These coppersmiths' faith glow in tradition". DNA. 2012-09-27. Retrieved 2013-05-10.
  2. ↑ Supriya Shelar (15 September 2010). "Twashta Kasar: ruling devotees' hearts". Sakaal.
  3. ↑ "Once Hindu, now christian: the early life of Baba ... . - Full View | HathiTrust Digital Library | HathiTrust Digital Library". Babel.hathitrust.org. 2010-09-25. Retrieved 2013-05-10.
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