The Marwari (also variously Marvari, Marwadi, Marvadi) is a language originating in the Western Indian state of Rajasthan, but is also found in the neighboring state of Gujarat and in Eastern Pakistan. It is considered by many to be a western dialect of Hindi. It does not have a written form, as most educated speakers use standard Hindi for their written correspondence. Marwari currently has no official status as a language of education and government, and its use is declining, especially in urban centres.
In India, several Marwaris have moved into other regions and have historically excelled at business. Today, several of India's top businesses are owned and run by extended Marwari families for example the Birlas (AV Birla group, Hindustan Motors, Grasim suitings, L&T, BirlaSoft), Jindals (Jindal Steel, Shalimar paints), Bhartias (India glycol, Hindustan Times), Goenkas (HMV, CESC), Jalans, Singhanias (JK Tire, Raymonds), Ruia (Essar steel, Hutch), Jhunjhunwalas (Bhilwara Suitings), etc.
As a caste, the Marwaris can be further classified in Agarwals, Maheshwaris,Brahmins, Goels and Oswals. Marwaris usually identify themselves with one of these sub castes.
In Pakistan, there are approximately 256,000 Marwaris. They are divided into three groups:
Marwari, Southern Marwari, and Dhatki Marwari. For the most part, the Pakistani Marwari live in poverty. This is also true of the Marwaris in Rajasthan, India. Often they live off land rented to them by a wealthy landlord. They work the land and give the vast majority of the produce to the landlord.
