Impact of Education and Economic Status of Malis of Greater Hajo, Kamrup District of Assam

Abstract

Among the sixteen Scheduled Castes of Assam, Malis are also ones who are dependent on floriculture for their livelihood. Traditionally, individuals associated with the occupation of crafting flower garden, flower trading, takes the responsibility for the maintenance of flower gardens are known as Malis. They are also known as Bhui Mali. According to the census 2011, the total population of Malis was 69,535 . The Malis are found in many of the states in India. However, they are recognized as Scheduled Castes only in six states, namely, West Bengal, Tripura, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, and Assam. Hajo, which is located in Hajo revenue circle of Kamrup District of Assam is known as Panchatirtha because of five famous shrines located here. Traditionally, Malis are associated with these temples and their responsibility is to prepare garlands to be offered to the deities. With the passage of time, they take up the profession of making garlands and selling them to the devotees. This paper is an attempt to study the economic status of the Malis doing business of flowers and garlands in temple premises of greater Hajo area.