The Doms of Varanasi: Guardians of Funeral Pyres Despite Their Untouchable Status
In Varanasi, only the doms, members of the untouchable caste, are permitted to manage funeral pyres on the Ganges ghats.
On the ghats of Varanasi, those stone steps leading down to the sacred waters of the Ganges, only the doms oversee the funeral pyres. Although historically classified among the untouchables under India's caste system, they hold a ritual role considered essential.
These funeral specialists are viewed as chosen intermediaries between the earthly world and the afterlife, occupying thus a paradoxical position: marginalized by their status as a lower caste, yet indispensable to Hindu funeral ceremonies.
Sources
- Les doms de Bénarès, impurs gardiens des bûchers mortuaires indiens — Le Monde — Une
EGazette summarizes reporting from multiple sources; follow the links for the originals.
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