Romani, Domari in Afghanistan

Introduction / History

Romani or Domari, are made up of two groups: the Ghorbati and the Nawari. Both groups speak a dialect of the language called Romany, which is related to the North Indo-Aryan language of India. Their dialect, Domari, contains many Arabic words.

Romani call themselves Rom, which in their language means "men." Rom is derived from the Indian word Dom, meaning "a man of low caste who gains his livelihood by singing and dancing." The Ghorbati are named from the Arabic word, gurbet, which means "stranger." In the Arab world, Romani are called Nauar, hence the Nawari Romani.

Dark skin and dark eyes are typical of most Romani. Their almost "mystical" lifestyle has made them the objects of curiosity, distrust, and even fear, from their beginnings until now. However, they are a proud and dignified people often not deserving a negative reputation.

Romani originated in India where they worked as musicians, entertainers and metal workers. There they were discriminated against and excluded from the temples. Later, they were sent to Persia as minstrels. From there they were separated into two groups. One traveled northward and became the Romany-speaking European Romani. The other traveled southward and became known as the Domari, or Middle Eastern Romani. A small number of these live in Afghanistan.

What Are Their Lives Like?

It is common for Domari Romani to have two or more specialized occupations. This makes it easier for them to adapt to a changing society's needs. When a region's people no longer need a Romani's particular skill, they move on to one that will.

Romani have long been known for their abilities as musicians, singers and dancers. They also hold a wide variety of other occupations. The men are skilled makers of sieves, drums, bird cages, and reed mats. They also entertain with animals, work as tinkers or play music. The women sometimes sell such things as cloth, shoes, kitchen utensils or other products made by Romani men. Many also sing and dance. Both men and women shear sheep, spin wool, and tell fortunes. Sadly, some of the women and children are forced to beg for food as a means of survival.

Today, there are some Romani villages and communities in Afghanistan. Other Romani are nomadic and either travel in caravans of wagons or carts, or they ride on camels, donkeys or horses. The settled Romani usually live in houses that are typical to those of the region in which they settle.

Romani marriages usually take place between couples in their teens. The Romani family unit is highly valued and each member is depended on for his financial contribution.

Values such as justice, fidelity and morality are very significant in Romani society. Such things as courtesy and friendliness are also very important. The control of deviants is strictly enforced. If a Romani becomes impure by some immoral or unlawful act, he is considered an outcast. Also, sexual purity is considered a must for young women. In fact, it must be proven before marriage that she has never before been with a man.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Domari Romani are Muslim and they follow the practices and beliefs of the Islamic faith. The traditional beliefs of the Romani such as that ghosts, lizards and snakes are capable of harming humans, that men have the power to curse others by giving them the "evil eye," and that some people have the power to heal the sick are no longer held by some Romani.

What Are Their Needs?

Most Romani feel marginalized in Afghanistan. The quality of health care, nutrition, housing and education is poor, especially for a marginalized community.

Prayer Points

Pray that those Romani who know Christ will boldly disciple others in the faith.
Ask God to strengthen, encourage and protect the small number of Romani Christ followers, and use them to win others.
Pray for the Lord to raise up and thrust out workers to the Domari.

Text Source:   Joshua Project