(Musahar Scheduled Caste in Social Transition Phase: An Anthropological Study)

The objective of the study was to understand the changing nature of the social and cultural life prevalent among the Musahar community members. The term ‘Musahar ’means ‘rat-eater ’, which gives an idea of the people's status. Originally Musahars were forest dwellers and used to depend upon forest produce and agriculture. But eventually they have become landless agricultural labourers. Musahar is one of the Dalit/Scheduled caste communities perceived as lowest rank in the social status. Socially they are considered as lowest among the Dalits. They were given Maha-Dalit status by the Bihar government, testament to the abject penury in which most live. Educational status of this community is very low. Illiteracy and poverty are the features of this community. In the present ethnographic study of Musahar change in cultural practices, social life and organizational setup is definitely observed in Musahar society and the impact is more on people living in Musahar Tolas of studies area.