Suthreh Shahis

Suthreh Shahis a division of the Sikhs in Hindustan whose priests may be known by particular marks. Thus they make a perpendicular black streak down the forehead, and carry two small black sticks, each about half a yard in length, with which they make a noise when they solicit alms. They lead a wandering life, begging and singing songs in the Punjabi and other dialects, mostly of a moral and mystic tendency. They are held in great contempt, and are frequently disreputable in character. They consider Tegh Bahader, the father of Guru Govind, as their father.