Traditional Indian society was made up of jatis ("births"), which were endogamous subgroups (i.e., marriages were only permitted between members of the same group by law).
The hereditary occupation of each group, over which each
group had a monopoly, was used to arrange the jatis (and to establish their
social standing).
The Malis' ancestral employment in old northern Indian
civilization was managing gardens, producing flowers, and crafting flower
garlands (mala).
You may also want to read more about Hinduism here.
Be sure to check out my writings on religion here.