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| Regions with significant populations | |
|---|---|
| • India • Pakistan | |
| Languages | |
| •Urdu •Hindi •Marwari •Marathi | |
| Religion | |
| Islam | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| •Behna •Mansoori |
ThePinjara (mansoori) are a Muslim community found in the states ofMaharashtra,Gujarat,Rajasthan and some parts ofMadhya Pradesh in India.[1] The Pinjara Muslims form a distinctive community of Indian Muslims primarily concentrated in the western state of Maharashtra, particularly inMumbai. Where large communities termed asJama'at Khanas were formed in the 1800s.
Originally the Pinjaras also called mansoori are the traditional cotton carders ofCentral India and the community is believed to have migrated to India fromCentral Asia, particularly during the medieval period when many skilled artisans fromIran moved into the Indian subcontinent. Some members of Pinjara community have migrated toPakistan and settled inKarachi,Larkana,Umerkot and other regions ofSindh.[citation needed]
They are known asShaikh Mansoori or Rangadis especially inGujarat andMaharashtra, where the name Pinjara is no longer used.[2] The name Mansoori is derived from aSufi saint,Khwaja Mansoor Al Hallaj who belongs to al mansur familyAl-Hallaj (c. 858-922). as they are claimed to be the decedents of him. Pinjara Muslims often speak the local languages of the regions they inhabit, such asMarathi,Gujarati, orUrdu, and their cultural practices are deeply influenced by their regional environments. The community is known for its strict adherence to Islamic practices and maintains a strong sense of social cohesion.
Renowned for their traditional involvement in textile weaving, their name, "Pinjara," derived fromMarathi, translates to "cage," a reference to the enclosures once used for theirweaving equipment. This community boasts a diverse cultural heritage shaped by influences from their Islamic faith, Marathi language and culture, as well as their unique history and traditions.
When it comes to food habits, Pinjara Muslims have a rich culinary heritage that reflects the diverse influences of their history, culture and places they are settled in. InMaharashtra Their cuisine is a blend of Marathi and Muslim cooking styles and incorporates a range of spices and flavors that are unique to the region. Fish is also a popular food item among Pinjara Muslims, particularly in coastal areas of Maharashtra.Pomfret,Surmai, andBangda are some of the common varieties of fish that are consumed in the community. Sweets and desserts also hold a special place in Pinjara Muslim cuisine. They have a range of traditional sweets such asPhirni,Sheer Khurma, andLadoo, which are often served during festivals and special occasions.
Their traditional occupation of cotton carding was eliminated byindustrialization. Few continued to work as cotton carders or traders. Many turned towards manufacturing or other sectors. Marriages with members of other castes of the same status are occasionally permitted. Mansoori's are mostly active in business or in engineering or accounting.[citation needed]
Celebrating Islamic festivals such asEid al-Fitr,Eid al-Adha, andMuharram, their cultural practices are deeply intertwined with their religious beliefs.