Bazigars

Bazigars, a tribe of natives scattered over India, known also as Panchpiri, Kunjra, or Nats, most of whom lead a nomadic life. They do not intermix with the Hindus. It has been remarked that they have some features of resemblance to the Gipsies of Europe and Asia. They are of seven castes; the Bazigars proper are Mohammedans in religion and habit; the Panchpiri have no set system of religion, but with native flexi- bility adopt that of the village or place where they may be sojourning. The men collect medicinal herbs, exhibit wild beasts, or sell mats of their own manufacture, are adroit jugglers, and excel in feats of activity; some of the women sell trinkets, and excel in lascivious dances; others practise physic and cupping. They are short-lived, owing to their lives of systematic debauchery.