Social Life of Kalabyo Ahmudans (Muslim Gunners) in Pre-colonial Period

This paper mainly focuses on social life of Kalabyo Ahmudans under Myanmar Kings. Kalabyo Ahmudans were believers of Islamic faith in the service of Myanmar Kingdom. These groups of Gunners were first found in the service of King Thalun (1629-1648) and they continued to service in various successive Myanmar King. During the reign of King Alaungmintaya (1752-1760), Kalabyo Ahmudans were expand and given the important role as bodyguards in defending the life of the king. Some Kalabyo Ahmudans joined the royal army in military campaign against Siam and they also served as palace guards taking the role as night sentries for the security of the king during the reign of King Hsinbyushin (1763-1776). In recognizing the loyalty of Kalabyo Ahmudans, the Myanmar Kings awarded titles and ranks viz. Kalawun, Thanatwun, Thanatbo and Thway-thauk-gyi to them respectively. Moreover, they were granted deed of lands in compatible with their rank and status. This paper examine how much extents Kalabyo Ahmudans involved in the service of Myanmar King and what are the titles and insignias of Kalabyo Ahmudans