Dhobi, known in some places as Dhoba, [1] Rajaka, is a scheduled caste in India and the greater Indian subcontinent whose traditional occupations are washing, ironing, and agricultural labour. [2][3][4]
The Dhoba caste, also known as the Dhobi, is a distinct community in India traditionally associated with laundry work. The origin of Dhoba caste is very vague; however it appears that they are an offshoot of one of the Dravidian tribes.
The meaning of DHOBI is a member of a low caste of India employed as washermen : washerman.
The Dhobi, deriving their name from the Hindi verb dhona meaning "to wash," constitute a caste community primarily in India and Pakistan whose traditional occupation involves the manual laundering, beating on stones, and ironing of clothes, often in communal open-air setups called dhobi ghats.
The history of the Dhobi caste highlights that every caste in India’s social structure has had its unique role. The Dhobi caste, associated with washing clothes and maintaining cleanliness, is mentioned in historical and religious contexts.
dhobi, n. meanings, etymology, pronunciation and more in the Oxford English Dictionary
Many religiously follow Sant Gadge (Gadge Maharaj), whose jayanti (birth anniversary) they celebrate every 23 February. The word dhobi is derived from the Hindi word dhona, which means 'to wash'.
Dhobi Ghats, also known as washermen's ghats, are open-air laundromats that may be found throughout India. They are often found on the banks of rivers or lakes and are used to wash clothes by ...
All You Need To Know About Dhobi Ghats In India - Asia