Mazdoor

Mazdoor is a term of South Asian origin, commonly used in Hindi and Urdu, that translates to "laborer" or "worker." It generally refers to individuals engaged in manual labor, often in fields such as agriculture, construction, or manufacturing. The term can encompass a wide range of occupations, from unskilled daily wage earners to skilled artisans.

Historically, the concept of mazdoor has been central to the economic and social structures of many South Asian societies. Their contributions have been vital for infrastructure development, agricultural output, and the production of goods. However, the term can also carry connotations of low social status and economic vulnerability, reflecting the often precarious working conditions and limited bargaining power faced by many laborers.

In contemporary usage, mazdoor continues to denote those involved in physical work. Discussions surrounding mazdoor often involve issues of labor rights, fair wages, and social security. The term is frequently used in contexts discussing poverty, migration, and the challenges faced by the working class in both rural and urban areas of the Indian subcontinent.