The Damai refers to an occupational caste found among indigenous people, consisting of 45 distinct subgroups. Members of this caste traditionally serve as tailors and musicians. Their surnames are derived from the specific subgroup to which they belong.
The name Damai is coined from the Damaha, a musical instrument. These individuals are known for their ability to play the Naumati baja, which is an ensemble comprising nine traditional musical instruments. Historically, the 1854 Nepalese Muluki Ain categorized the Damai as a "Lower caste."