Tanti

The Tanti, originally a Pan caste, are a Hindu caste found in the state of Bihar in India. The group was classified as a Most Backward Class by the Government of Bihar but has been delisted on the recommendation of various commissions.

The word tanti is derived from the Hindi word tant', which means a loom. They were traditionally weavers, and are one of the many communities found in South Asia, traditionally associated with this craft. According to their traditions, they were created by the Hindu god Shiva from his tears. The community is found in south Bihar, and Ranchi district in Jharkhand.

The Tanti are endogamous and consist of a number of totemistic clans, the main ones being the Nag, Sal and Kachchap. They are further divided into uncha or pure Tanti, and the nicha or impure Tanti. These two sub-divisions do not intermarry. They use Pan, Pantanti and Tanti as their surnames. The Tanti speak Panchpargania dialect of Hindi. Their traditions are similar to other Hindu weaving castes, such as the Koshta and Tattama.

The Tanti were victims of mechanisation, as their traditional occupation is no longer viable. They have now joined other mainstream occupations like but not limited to business,agriculture and other major industries. The community is Hindu, but incorporate many folk beliefs. They are a fairly successful community, and many have taken to modern education.

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