Question

Which community among the following was treated as untouchables in the Bombay presidency?
A. Koli
B. Mahar
C. Nayar
D. Munda

Answer 1

Hint: This community was also known as Dalit. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar belonged to this community. Later, this community was designated as Scheduled Caste.

Complete answer:
The Bombay Presidency was also called Bombay and Sind from 1843 to 1936. The Bombay Province was an official subdivision called the presidency of British India, headquartered in the city of Bombay.

In the early 20th century, the Mahar community was also known as ‘Maha’ and ‘Mara’ was treated as untouchables in the Bombay Presidency. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar belonged to this community. Most of the Mahar community followed B. R. Ambedkar converted to Buddhism. These people were also known as Dalit.
Mahar is an Indian community, people belonging to this community are largely found in the states of Maharashtra and other neighbouring areas. People belonging to the Mahar community usually live in the village outskirts by doing the work as a watchman and to track the thieves. Later, many land owners gave a few parts of their land to the Mahar community for cultivation purposes. Earlier, the Mahar community people are known to be the Shudra community.
The Mahar were led to degradation during the rule of the Peshwas, who treated them as untouchables. The Mahar caste was designated as a Scheduled Caste in the different states of India by 2017.
In the 14th century, Mahar Bhakti saint Chokhamela, and many of his family members became popular for their religious poetry called “abhang".

Hence, the correct answer is option B.

Note:
Mahar is an Indian community. They were treated as untouchables during the Peshwa rule. The Mahar community was also known for their religious beliefs. The Mahar community worked as a watchman and was also involved in cultivation.