Various sociological and anthropological accounts have divided Muslim castes into three distinct categories: Ashraf, Ajlaf and Arzal. Two of these three categories are assessed based on whether such castes are associated with any occupations and whether they have been included in the other backward class (OBC) category. These two grounds have raised many questions about the classification of Muslim society. Sociologists believe that three categories are not enough to see a clear picture of the dynamics of the Muslim caste structure. The Kulhaiya Biradari, one of the most significant populace in Seemanchal in Bihar, with which this article deals, is a community grappling with similar issues. Kulhaiya, a non-occupational caste, claims to be a Sheikh but is also included in the OBC category. The main objective of this study is to find an answer to whether the categorisation of caste among Muslims is sufficient and appropriate.
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