Introduction / History

Their name means "hunter" since this was what they did traditionally. Some became farmers during the 1920s when they were forced to give up hunting, while others now live in Delhi where they sell flowers and garlands. Those who live in Delhi have access to modern medicine. Rajasthan is Aheria's original homeland.

Parents arrange marriages for their children when they are between 16-25. Like many Hindu communities, they pay the bride price in jewelry. The wedding rituals are performed at the bride's house, usually by a Brahmin.

Though the Hindu peoples have given the Aheria a "scheduled caste" status, the Aherias would still consider themselves to be Hindus. They cremate their dead and worship Hindu deities such as Jhind, Tejaji, Goraji, Hamadevji, and Hanumanji.

Aheria communities want their children to achieve a better education than previous generations. Though most don't get past secondary education, there are some Aherias who are college educated. For a scheduled caste group, the Aherias have a high literacy rate.