Introduction / History

They are proud Kshatriya people from Maharastra mainly speaking Marathi. They are considered to be one among the marital races of India like the Rajputs and Sikhs. They usually worship Shiva as their family gods, and consider Shivaji as their leader, and fiercely defend their culture, language and history.

Where Are they Located?

They are located across Marathwaada, some are also found along borders with Karnataka.

What Are Their Lives Like?

They mostly belong to the upper echelons of a rural society. Mainly 'kunbi(farmer)' by class, almost all rural Maratha families own land and cultivate crops. The lands are usually big enough to support both cash crops and food crops.

What Are Their Beliefs?

They are liberal compared to other Indian groups. Arranged marriage is not strictly enforced, and a boy can marry a girl of his choice as long as she is a Brahmin or a Maratha. Marathas, like all other Hindus worship many deities, and usually rever their land and Earth as their mother. Marathas are a little tolerant towards other cultures. But as they consider themselves as upper caste, they usually look down upon people they consider as not their equal.