The Lori are a nomadic community found in the Balochistan region of Iran and Pakistan. Originally from Sindh, who migrated westward.[2] They must not be confused with the Lurs, who are an entirely distinct people also living in Iran.[3][4]
Present circumstances
Traditionally, the Lori along with Darzada, Nakib, Lundi, Lutti, Behari/Bahari and Wardili were the gypsies, tinkers, minstrels, carpenters, tailors and the blacksmiths.[5][6] Each occupational group is distinguished by a special appellation. For example, the carpenter is known as (Dar tarash Lori) and the blacksmith is known as (Asinkar Lori). While those groups involved in entertainment are known as (Dohli), or drummers, and are a strictly endogamous group. The dholi are also involved in jugglery, palmistry, and fortune telling. Historically, they were also the sellers of donkeys, but this occupation has declined with the growth in modern transportation.[4]
In the Kachhi region of Balochistan, the Lori live among both the Jamot and the Baloch and Brahui. Their traditional occupation was blacksmithing[7] with many of the women employed as midwives. Most Lori of Kacchi also speak Seraiki, in addition to Balochi.[8]
