Family Structure:

The family structure is patriarchal, where males hold dominant roles. Typically, the eldest male serves as the head of the family, shouldering responsibility and commanding respect. He plays pivotal roles in events such as marriages and childbirth. Upon his passing, leadership is typically passed on to his eldest son.

Religion:

All Siddis residing in Kutch adhere to Sunni Islam, following its principles closely. However, Siddis in Karnataka predominantly identify as Catholics, potentially influenced by their Portuguese and Goan connections.

Marriage Customs:

Siddis marry within their community and follow rules regarding which groups . They can marry into alliances, preferring cross-cousin marriages but prohibiting parallel-cousin unions. They typically marry after puberty, with negotiations between parents determining partners. A bride price, set by the traditional council (jamat), is paid to the bride. Divorce is permitted for reasons such as adultery and cruelty, initiated solely by husbands, with no compensation to wives. Remarriage is allowed for widows, widowers, and divorcees.

Unique Tradition:

Dhamaal is a vibrant cultural expression rooted in the spiritual practices of the Siddis of Gujarat. It combines elements of Sufi and African musical and dance traditions, particularly those from East Africa. This unique art form serves as a medium for spiritual connection and expression within the Siddi community. The rhythmic beats and energetic movements of Dhamaal create an atmosphere of joy and transcendence, allowing participants to enter into a state of heightened spirituality. Through Dhamaal, Siddis celebrate their heritage and connect with their ancestral roots.

Economy:

In urban settings, Siddis are involved in a variety of occupations including pulling hand-carts, working as casual labourers, and holding positions as drivers or cleaners in private trucks. Additionally, they undertake roles such as wiremen, masonry workers, laundry attendants, waiters, and assistants in

private clinics. In Bhuj town, Siddi women primarily perform household tasks, and their daughters often assist with similar duties. Some women also

participate in casual labour, particularly in masonry work.

Current Population:

50,000

Culture & Traditions:

Monarchy:

During menstruation, Siddi women traditionally refrain from certain activities such as cooking, fetching water, visiting religious sites like dargahs, and handling food grains for about 4 to 5 days until they have bathed and resumed their normal duties.

Pregnancy:

During the seventh month of pregnancy, a pre-birth celebration is held, where rituals like applying a tilak, offering coconut and sugar cubes, and inviting relatives are observed. The first childbirth often takes place at the woman's parents' home, with subsequent births occurring there or in hospitals in urban areas. For the first 11 days post-delivery, the woman avoids touching holy places. On the 6th day after birth, a "Chhatthi" celebration is held, where the father's sister names the child, often giving them a Muslim name like Mustak or Sale Mahmad.

Circumcision (Sunhat):

Circumcision is a mandatory practice within the Siddi community, conducted either by a doctor or a trained individual using a hair-removing technique. Relatives and other villagers are invited to witness the procedure and are entertained during the event.

Death:

At the time of death, passages from the Quran are recited. The deceased body is treated with fragrant substances and then taken to the cemetery. All relatives, along with other villagers, accompany the procession and witness the burial. On the third day after death, a gathering called "Jalas" is held where alms are distributed, Quranic verses are recited, and prayers are offered. Post-death ceremonies are also conducted on the 10th and 40th days after death, with relatives providing consolation to the grieving families. The cemetery is shared by both Muslims and Siddis, and other ceremonies are similar for both communities.