the name of a class of Hindu ascetics, beggars of the Brahminic order, who have vowed eternal silence. Wholly naked, with only a sacred string, generally a snake's skin, over their shoulders, they make their home under large shade-trees. When they enter a house they manifest their presence by the clapping of their hands, and generally share with the inmates the best of their dainties, for a Brahmin considers himself highly honored by such a visit.-Vollmer, Worterb. d. Mythol. p. 1020.