Muslim Halwai
Introduction The '''Muslim Halwai''' are a Muslim community found in various parts of India and Pakistan, mainly in Uttar Pradesh. They have their ancestral backgrounds from Hakwai tribes. Halva means ''sweets'' in Hindi and ''Halvai'' or ''Halwai'' are sweet makers. Their preferred self-designation is Shaikh. They are also known as Mohammadi Halwai, Faridi, Adnani, Siddiqui.Present circumstancesThe Halwai are a Sunni Muslim community. They also visit the shrines of various Sufi saints found in North India, such as Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti.They are a landless community, involved in the selling of sweetmeats, tobacco, and as well as the occupation of dyeing clothes. Members of the community members have taken up jobs in government and private service. They are largely an urban community, living in their residential quarters. Almost all older cities in North India and Pakistan have a Halwai Mohalla The Muslim Halwai have their own registered committee with name of All India Muslim Halwai biradari committee to deal with matters relating to the community. Haji Mahmood Ahmad is a founder and President of all India Muslim halwai biradari committee.
See also * Shaikhs in South Asia
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