dhobi

They have never been separately classified at the census but always amalgamated with the Dhobi or washerman caste.

Before washing his clothes the Dhobi steams them,2 hanging them in a bundle for a time over a cauldron of boiling water.

Like the Teli the Dhobi is unlucky, and it is a bad omen to see him when starting on a journey or going out in the morning.

It is also currently believed that the Dhobi wears the clothes of his customers himself.

On the other hand, one or two of the village menials, such as the Dhobi or washerman, are considered to some extent impure.