A "dhobi" is a person in South Asia, particularly in India, who is responsible for washing clothes. Traditionally, dhobis work in open areas, using large stones and water to scrub garments clean. They often have a specific area, known as a dhobi ghat, where they wash and dry clothes, making it a communal space for this work. Dhobis play an essential role in the local economy, providing laundry services to households and businesses. They may also offer additional services like ironing and mending. The profession has been passed down through generations, with many dhobis belonging to specific communities that specialize in this trade.