The Siddi Community in India

The Siddi (also known as Sheedi, Sidi, Siddhi, Habshi, or Badsha) are an ethnic group in India and Pakistan with African roots tracing back to the Bantu community of East Africa. • They are one of the most distinct Afro-Indian communities.

Historical Background

• 7th Century: First came to India with Arab merchants.

• 16th Century onwards: Arrived with Portuguese and British, mainly as slaves, soldiers, and servants.

• Over centuries, they assimilated into local cultures while preserving African elements.

Geographic Distribution

• Found across Karnataka, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Goa, and Tamil Nadu.

• Often live in isolated villages, forest interiors, and coastal belts.

• Major concentrations: Uttara Kannada (Karnataka), Junagadh (Gujarat), Yellapur & Haliyal (Karnataka.

Legal & Social Status

• 2003: Recognized as a Scheduled Tribe (ST) by the Union Government.

• Included in the list of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), acknowledging their social and economic vulnerability.

Culture

• Music & Dance: • Known for Dhamal (energetic dance performed by men) and Rasda. • Percussion instruments like dammam, duf, gumte widely used. • Blend of African heritage with Indian traditions.

Religion

• Practise Christianity, Hinduism, and Islam, depending on region. • Despite religious differences, share common cultural practices. • Strong devotion to Yellamma deity, worshipped in temples and homes.

Language

• Speak Konkani, Urdu, or Marathi, depending on the region of settlement. • No single distinct Siddi language; they assimilated linguistically into local communities.

Significance

• Represents Afro-Indian heritage and diversity within India. • Their traditions contribute uniquely to Indian folk culture, music, and dance.