Chamar

Chamar (from the Sanskrit Charmakara,Tanners ) is a prominent occupational Dalit caste in India. Also associated with the Madiga in South India.

Chamars in the Punjab

Chamars are among the biggest castes in India. The most politically and socially influential Chamars are from the state of Punjab with Dalits comprising 27% of the population. In the Punjab they are divided into various groups such as Ad-dharmis and Ravidasis. They are highly concentrated in the Doaba region of Punjab (India).

The Chamars of Doaba are rich and educated. Due the influence of Sikhism and the preference of the British for Sikh soldiers, many Chamar Sikhs, were able to serve in the military and thus improve their social and economic status.