Mali (phul)
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| Castes of India | |
| Mali | |
| Classification | Mali |
| Subdivisions | phul |
| Significant populations in | Maharashtra, Goa, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh |
| Languages | Marathi |
| Religions | Hinduism |
Mali, the functional caste of vegetable of flower gardeners, derives the name from the Sanskrt Mala, a garland. The caste has numerous endogamous groups, varying in different localities. The Phulmalis, who derive their name form their occupation of growing and selling flowers (phul), usually rank as the highest. The Jire Malis, are so named because they were formerly the only sub-caste who would grow cumin (Jire), but this distinction no longer exists as other Malis, except perhaps t he Phulmalis, now grow it. The caste has also exogamous septs or vargas, with designations taken from villages, titles or nicknames or inanimate objects. Marriage is forbidden between members of the same sept and between first and second cousins. Girls were once betrothed in childhood and married before maturity. The marriage ceremony follows the standard form prevalent in the locality. Widow-marriage is permitted. Like other castes practising intensive cultivation the Malis once married several wives where they could afford it. The dead may be either buried or burnt: in the former case the corpse is laid with the feet to the north. Devi is the principal deity of the Malis, weddings being celebrated in front of her temple.
The Mali combines the callings of a gardener and nusery man. In laying out a flower-garden and in arranging beds he is an expert. Many Malis live in the towns and keep vegetable or foler-garden just outside. Thy sell flowers, and the Mali girls are very good flower-sellers. The mali also prepares the Maur or marriage crown both for the bride and the bridegroom at marriages.
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