Agaria (Muslim)

The Agaria are a Muslim community found in the state of Gujarat in India.[1]

Agaria Aagariya
Total population
15,000
Regions with significant populations
  • India
  • Pakistan
Languages
Religion
Islam
Related ethnic groups
Agri

Origin

The Agaria (Aagariya) 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 tehsils of Bhuj, Matra, Mandvi, [Dhrub], [Mundra], and Rajkot.[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, Uthamana, 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]

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gollark: OH NO ANOTHER ONE
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gollark: You're wrong, I checked.
gollark: This does happen occasionally.

References
  1. People of India: Gujarat, Volume XXII Part One, edited by R.B Lal, S.V Padmanabham & A Mohideen page 35 to 38 Popular Prakashan


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