The Mal is a Hindu caste found in the state of West Bengal and Jharkhand.
[5][6][7] Mal numbered 273,641 in the 2001 census and were 1.5 per cent of the total Scheduled Caste population of West Bengal.
[citation needed] Sapure Mals are mainly snake charmers.
Paharia Mals generally live in hilly areas, and have their own distinct language.
Raja Mals do not practice widow marriage like other orthodox Hindus.