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RELIGIOUS SECTS
GANJ BAKHSHÍS. Of this division of the śikhs no particulars, except the name, have been ascertained. This is said to have been derived from that of the founder. They are not numerous nor of any note.
RÁMRÁYÍS. These derive their appellation from that of RÁMA Ráya, the son or grandson of Hari Raya, and their distinction from the other Sikhs is more of a political than religious complexion. Ráma Ráva disputed the succession to the Pontificate with Hari KKishŃA, the son of Hari Raya, and was unsuccessful. His followers, however, maintain the superiority of his pretensions, and record many miracles wrought by him in proof of his sanctity. He flourished about A. D. 1660. The Rámráyís are not common in Hindustan.
SUTHRÁ SHÁHİS. These are more often met with than either of the two preceding, and the priests are recognisable by distinguishing marks. They make a perpendicular black streak down the forehead, and carry two small black sticks about half a yard in length, which they clash together when they solicit alms. They lead a vagabond life, begging and singing songs in the Panjábí and other dialects, mostly of a moral or mystic tendency. They are held in great disrepute, however, and are not unfrequently gamblers, drunkards, and
