The Mamassanis and the
Qashqais
The
average Mamassani is of medium height spare ― except for those persons on whom
the sedentary life is having its effect-with dark hair and eyes and in some
cases an almost delicate complexion. Refined features are not uncommon. Despite
settlement the Mamassani retain their tribal costume to a great extent. This
consists of round, often black, felt hat (in shape like that of the Qashqai
without the brims) a light coloured robe and black trousers. The women wear
small nose ornaments and have their brows tattooed.
Settlement
has made the majority of the Mamassani mean and ungenerous; the khans are very
wealthy by tribal standards but their conception of hospitality in most cases
falls far below that of Qashqai. They are noted for sharp practices in
commercial activities.
General
living conditions in Mamassani are slightly lower than those found in Qashqai
but much better than those of Khamseh Arab. The khans are apparently miserly in
their treatment of the people who are poorly dressed and housed.
Polygamy
is common throughout Mamassani and the women do not enjoy the independent and
respected position of those in Qashqai. Opium-smoking is not uncommon. Health
has apparently become worse since the settlement and malaria in particular is
having a pronounced effect on the activities and appearance of the people. Of
late venereal disease has appeared in the tribe.
The
religion of the people is Shiah Islam. The Mamassani are reputedly devout and
harbour a great number of seyyeds and other “holy men”.
The
native language is Lori but Persian is spoken when required.
G. F. Magee, The Tribes of Fars, Simla, 1948, pp.
161―162.
No comments:
Post a Comment