Introduction / History

The Sumra is a Muslim community of Gujarat named after Samara, a place in Iran, where their ancestor Mohamed Haneef Ali had settled. They had converted from the Parmar Rajputs of Mallani and Rajaputana communities. It is also believed that they are descendants of Samri Ameer Dinar and were called Samro before it was changed to Sumra. They had migrated to Kutch and then to Saureshtra in Sindh. Stories of their migration are recalled in their folk lore and oral traditions.

They speak Kachchi and Gujarati. Traditionally they were warriors but at present they are involved in business, agriculture, government and private service. Their staple diets are Bairi, roti, rice and dal.

Marriages between first cousins are preferred. Widow remarriage is allowed. The marriage rituals start with betrothal ceremony followed by Takneer by Maulvis and Nikah at the bride's residence as per the Islamic traditions. The dead are buried and Ziarat is performed for three days.

The Sumra belong to the Sunni sect. Their community is affiliated to the local Jamat. Although they have cordial relations with the Lohana community, they usually do not accept food or water from them.

State: Gujarat

Prayer Points

* For the salvation of the Sumra people.
* For the Sumra people to develop and have proper facilities such as electricity, roads and literacy programs.