ABSTRACT
The Khwánd-kár is a teacher, or reader, in the Persian language, but in Eastern Bengal he performs for the lower classes divers abnormal duties, originating in the corrupt and Hinduized Muhammadanism of India. He is often styled the Murshíd, or religious guide, and Akhund, or tutor. As a rule he is very illiterate and only able to read Arabic with difficulty, but he makes much of this smattering of knowledge. Thirty years ago they were important individuals, their services being in great demand, but the reformed teaching of modern times has been gradually undermining this influence, and they are now little respected, and seldom consulted. During the early years of this century, when Islám in Bengal was still paralysed by the revolution that had occurred, the Khwánd-kárs educated boys, instructing them in the rudiments of their religion. At the present day, however, Munshís generally teach children, although a Khwándkár is often preferred by strict Muhammadans to instruct their children in the doctrines of the faith, and teach them the ‘Kalma’, or confession of faith.
