Merchants, craftsperson, artisans, blacksmith etc. lived in the black towns

Introduction:
In cities such as Madras, there were black towns where specific communities resided. These black towns were predominantly inhabited by people of African descent who had arrived in India either as slaves or as free individuals. They formed a distinct community within the larger urban landscape and had their own social and economic networks.

Who lived in the black towns?
The black towns in cities like Madras were primarily inhabited by people of African origin, known as Siddis or Habshis. The Siddis were descendants of Africans who had been brought to India as slaves, soldiers, or servants by various Indian rulers and European colonial powers. Over time, some Siddis gained their freedom and settled in black towns, while others continued to serve in positions such as soldiers or palace guards.

Social and economic life:
The black towns had a unique social and cultural life. The Siddis maintained their African traditions and customs, which were often blended with Indian practices. They had their own community structures, including a leader or headman who represented their interests and acted as a spokesperson for the community.

The black towns also had a thriving economic life. Many Siddis were engaged in trades and crafts such as weaving, carpentry, and pottery. They often specialized in specific occupations and formed guilds or associations to regulate their professions. These guilds provided support and protection to their members and ensured fair practices within the community.

Interaction with the larger society:
While the black towns were relatively isolated from the rest of the city, there was also interaction between the Siddis and the larger society. They participated in local festivals and religious processions, and some Siddis even held positions of authority in the city administration. However, they were still seen as a separate community and faced discrimination and prejudice from other sections of society.

Conclusion:
The black towns in cities like Madras were inhabited by the Siddis, who were people of African descent. They had their own social and economic networks, maintaining their African traditions and engaging in various trades and crafts. While the black towns were distinct, the Siddis also had interactions with the larger society, albeit with some degree of discrimination.