Introduction : caste fictions -- Cast of characters : setting the Rajasthani stage -- Obscene jesters : Bhambhi "Little Kings" in the economy of Bhat praise-singing -- Venture funambulists : composing kings in old and new Rajasthan -- The enduring power of praise-abuse : Bhat Admen in modern times -- Conclusion : making history
Summary
Based on anthropological fieldwork in the Indian state of Rajasthan, the author explores the manner in which semi-nomadic performers known as Bhats understand caste hierarchies. He demonstrates how the ability to cleverly rework and sabotage lingering caste inequalities forms the basis for Bhat claims to status in contemporary India
Bibliography
Includes bibliographical references (pages 201-213) and index
