Saiqalgar
The Shikalgar are a Muslim community found in the state of Maharashtra in India.[1]
Origin
The term Saiqalgar is derived from the
Sangli. They are an extremely small community, with their settlements containing only a few families.[1]
Present circumstances
The Saiqalgar are now divided into groups, those who are now mainly small to medium-sized farmers, and a smaller groups who are still involved with the polishing and furbishing of metals. Among the latter groups, a small number have taken to the manufacture of fireworks.[1]
The Saiqalgar generally marry within the community, but there are instances of marriage with neighbouring
Sunni, but incorporate some folk beliefs.[citation needed
]