The Phenomenon of Ashrafization and De- Ashrafization Among Indian Muslim Society: A Study of Mallick Caste of Bihar

Abstract

The caste structure among Muslim society has been an ignored topic of discussion. However, many sociological writings have continuously attempted to reveal various aspects of the caste system in Muslim society of India. According to these studies, Muslim society is divided into three sections: Ashraf, Ajlaf and Arzal. Ashraf is a foreign-origin caste group, while Ajlaf and Arzal are indigenous occupational caste groups. Ashraf is a dignified category, whereas Ajlaf and Arzal are not considered dignified identities. That is why Ajlaf and Arzal caste people always try to elevate their social status by misidentifying themselves as Syed or Sheikh. Similar to Hindu society, where a phenomenon like Sanskritization occurred, the Muslim lower castes also attempted such a process called Ashrafization. This article aims to understand the caste structure within Muslim society. In addition, it will attempt to explore the phenomenon of Ashrafization, as well as a reverse process called De-Ashrafization, undertaken by the Mallick caste of Bihar.