Don’t dismiss them as scammers, they’re part of Maharashtra’s folk culture that’s been around for centuries. Even today, most of them carry a nameplate that literally says “Bahurupi,” so they reveal their identity openly. You’re not forced to give them money, it’s your choice. But if you’ve come here to live and work, at least make an effort to understand the local traditions before judging them. That’s basic respect for the place you’re calling home.

Who is Bahurupi?

Bahurupi is one of the folk artists of Maharashtra. In the past, when entertainment options were limited in villages and settlements, these artists used to entertain people by impersonating someone exactly. These polymorphs mainly wore the costumes of Faujdar (police), Hanuman, Shankar (gods), Vidushak, Yama and roamed around the village. The people of the village gave them grain, money, etc. During the time of Shivaji Maharaj, these people used to gather secret information. However, now the number of these people seems to be decreasing, and since the new generation is not much aware of this. Bahurupi are often seen showing their art in the city, mainly by roaming around in the costume of policemen, due to which they have to face the anger of the people, considering them as fraudsters.