Madhya Pradesh: 35 Madari families convert to Hinduism; want to connect to their ancient traditions

Ramasav Das Shastri from Nemavar and Anandagiri Maharaj from Ratlam were the saints who preceded over a ceremony on the banks of the Narmada river wherein 190 people from 35 families converted to Hinduism from Islam. Yagnopaveetham (thread wearing ceremony), Homa (communal prayer) and Mundan (shaving) were performed. 

The community came in contact with Anandagiri Maharaj 4 years ago. They expressed the desire to re convert to Hinduism stating that 4 generations ago, their ancestors were under duress to change their way of life. They still revered the Chamundi Mata. Chamundi Mata was their Kul Devi (clan deity). Chamundi Mata played an integral role in many of their customs and traditions. They trace their roots to the Amba village in the Ratlam district of Madhya Pradesh. 

Madari is a nomadic community. Their livelihood involves showcasing bears and monkeys in demonstrations. 

It is being reported that 200 years, which is at the time, the conversions occurred, the zamindars in the region of Madhya Pradesh were largely from the Muslim community. This is in stark contrast to trends elsewhere in the Nation wherein even though the rule was of the Mughal empire, they had a functional relationship with Hindu zamindars for the purposes of tax collection.