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⚫ The Khatri's are a north Indian community that originated in the ] Plateau of ]. This region is historically connected with the composition of the ] and classics like the ] and ]. Khatris have always been the prime protectors of Punjab.
{{Infobox caste
|caste_name=Khatris
|classification=]
|subdivisions=Aathghar, Barahghar,Bawanghar, Charghar, Dhaighar, Kukhran, Sareen and others
|populated_states=], ], ], ] and ]
|languages=], ] and ]
|religions=], ], ] and ]}}


⚫ When Pakistan and India gained independence, almost all Khatris came to India. In India today Khatri's live in all regions of India, but are mainly concentrated in Punjab, ], ] and ]. Khatri's in India are Hindu or Sikh. Khatris of all these faiths collectively form one community.
'''Khatri''' is the Punjabi adaptation of ] word ] ({{lang-hi|क्षत्रिय}}, ''{{IAST|kṣatriya}}''). The Kshatriya are the traditionally members of the Hindu military order. As administrators and rulers, Kshatriya were assigned with protecting the Hindu ], and serving humanity. In course of time, however, as a result of economic and political exigencies, the Khatri also expanded into mercantile occupations. The Khatris, along with the ], ]s, ]s, ]s and ]s, are the Kshatriya communities of ].<ref> Religion and Castes</ref><ref> Origin of Arora</ref>


⚫ ==Khatri Family Names==
⚫ The Khatris are a north Indian community that originated in the ] Plateau of ]. This region is historically connected with the composition of the ] and classics like the ] and ].


There are many Khatri family names. Most famous ones include Kapoor, Kohli, Malhotra, Mehra, Seth, Suri, Thapar.
⚫ When Pakistan and India gained independence, most of the Khatris in what became Pakistan migrated to India. Today Khatris live in all regions of India, but are concentrated in Punjab, ], ] and ]. While most Khatris are Hindu, a great many are also ] and a smaller minority are ] or ]. Khatris of all these faiths collectively form one community.{{Fact|date=April 2007}}<!-- Muslim Khatris have been historically seperated so this seems unlikely but may be mentioned in a source -->


==Etymology==
The name "Khatri" is derived from the Sanskrit word ']' ‘member of the warrior class’, derived from sanskrit word ksatra which means ‘dominion’, ‘power’.

⚫ ==Khatri Family Names==
''Main article: ] on ]'' ''Main article: ] on ]''

The ] (see ]), ], ], ] and ] castes are distinct communities of the Punjab and Sindh. Although they are not Khatri, they share a similar cultural background, all five communities being ] in origin.

Aroras and Khatris in particular share a close heritage. With Aroras having separated from the Khatri community in ancient times and migrating to Aror in the process.<ref>D. Ibbetson, E.MacLagan, H.A. Rose, "'' A Glossary of The Tribes & Casts of The Punjab & North West Frontier Province''", 1911, pp 17 Vol II </ref>


== History of the Khatri Community == == History of the Khatri Community ==
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{{main|Potohar}} {{main|Potohar}}


Many parts of Potohar (], ] etc.) before the ], were dominated by Sikh Khatri landowners. These families included clans such as Bindra, Bedi and Gujral (inter alia).{{Fact|date=April 2007}}<!-- The prominence of these particular gotras is not explained --> According to historical records, many Khatri clans of Rawalpindi received ]s from the British and/or ''Sher-e-Punjab'', ], for contributions to civil-service i.e. Treasury, Administration and Military.{{Fact|date=April 2007}} The first place the Khatris exerted their military and administrative force upon was the Potohar Plateau. Many parts of Potohar (], ] etc.) before the ], were dominated by Sikh Khatri landowners. These families included clans such as Bindra, Bedi and Gujral (inter alia). According to historical records, many Khatri clans of Rawalpindi received ]s from the British and/or ''Sher-e-Punjab'', ], for contributions to civil-service i.e. Treasury, Administration and Military.


For the most part, Khatris have been in the civil, government, and military administrators roles for centuries.<ref>As ]s</ref> Khatris have sometimes expanded into trade and mercantile businesses, including architecture. The ] built by the Khatris still exist.{{Fact|date=April 2007}}<!-- Were they still called Punjabi Khatris then or were they another clan of Kshatriya --> For the most part, Khatris have been in the civil, government, and military administrators roles for centuries.<ref>As ]s</ref> Khatris have sometimes expanded into trade and mercantile businesses, including architecture. The ] built by the Khatris still exist. Khatris were prominent for their architectural works all over India.


=== Prominent historical Khatris === === Prominent historical Khatris ===
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Many prominent historical figures have emerged from the Khatri. All ten Sikh Gurus were Khatri, belonging to the Bedi, Trehan, Bhalla and Sodhi subcastes. ] was a Tandon Khatri who codified the revenue collection system as Revenue Minister for Akbar. ] was a Puri Khatri whose martyrdom was celebrated on Basant Panchami in Lahore until independence. ], an Uppal Khatri <ref>http://www.punjabheritage.org/cultural-heritage/legend---stories-from-the-life-of-hari-singh-nalwa.html Stories from the Life of Hari Singh Nalwa by Dr. Vanit Nalwa</ref>, was a prominent general under Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The father and son pair of the Diwans ] and Mul Raj Chopra were successive governors of ] under Ranjit Singh. The former instituted vast improvement in agriculture, while the latter was instrumental in leading the revolt against the British to prevent the annexation of the ] into the East India Company territory. Sadhu Singh Gulla fought against the British Empire in 19th century. Later on he died in prison or battle. Many prominent historical figures have emerged from the Khatri. All ten Sikh Gurus were Khatri, belonging to the Bedi, Trehan, Bhalla and Sodhi subcastes. ] was a Tandon Khatri who codified the revenue collection system as Revenue Minister for Akbar. ] was a Puri Khatri whose martyrdom was celebrated on Basant Panchami in Lahore until independence. ], an Uppal Khatri <ref>http://www.punjabheritage.org/cultural-heritage/legend---stories-from-the-life-of-hari-singh-nalwa.html Stories from the Life of Hari Singh Nalwa by Dr. Vanit Nalwa</ref>, was a prominent general under Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The father and son pair of the Diwans ] and Mul Raj Chopra were successive governors of ] under Ranjit Singh. The former instituted vast improvement in agriculture, while the latter was instrumental in leading the revolt against the British to prevent the annexation of the ] into the East India Company territory. Sadhu Singh Gulla fought against the British Empire in 19th century. Later on he died in prison or battle.


One of the most important character of famous Punjabi legend Raja ] is minister ]. <ref>Four Legends of King Rasalu of Sialkot, The Folk-Lore Journal, 1883 Folklore Enterprises, Ltd, p. 129-151</ref> Most scholars agree that Raja Rasalu ruled from Sialkot and lived sometime between 400 to 500 AD.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} If it is true then Chopra family name, a Baraghar Khatri, developed by that time.{{Fact|date=May 2007}}<!-- explanation and source not given to suggested antiquity of Chopra family name --> One of the most important character of famous Punjabi legend Raja ] is minister ]. <ref>Four Legends of King Rasalu of Sialkot, The Folk-Lore Journal, 1883 Folklore Enterprises, Ltd, p. 129-151</ref> Most scholars agree that Raja Rasalu ruled from Sialkot and lived sometime between 400 to 500 AD. If it is true then Chopra family name, a Baraghar Khatri, developed by that time. ], the prime character of the Mahabharata, is the source of the ] and ] clans of Khatris, who were descended from him.


===Historical Mentions=== ===Historical Mentions===
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* Shankan ] Priests: Jhingana * Shankan ] Priests: Jhingana
* Martanada ] Priests: Jhingana * Martanada ] Priests: Jhingana
⚫
* Shreshtha Seth * Shreshtha Seth
* Dhavan Dhavan * Dhavan Dhavan
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===Hindu Khatris=== ===Hindu Khatris===


A majority of Khatris are Hindus <ref>M.A. Sherring, Hindu Castes and Tribes as represented in Banares, 1872.</ref>. As noted in the introduction, the Khatri community have been positioned in roles of administration, rule and warfare within Punjab. The Khatris were the patrons ('yajamansas' or in Punjabi 'jajmani') of the ].{{Fact|date=May 2007}} Together the two communities represent the heritage of the ] center of NW India.{{Fact|date=May 2007}}<!-- POV, other communities are also NW Indian and have had a vital role in Indo-Aryan foundation of India --> The Khatris have been among the most staunch supporters and defenders of Hinduism in North-Western India.{{Fact|date=May 2007}}<!-- POV and unsourced --> Many of them were prominent supporters of ] movement, which uses the ]s as the basis of their faith.{{Fact|date=May 2007}} A majority of Khatris are Hindus <ref>M.A. Sherring, Hindu Castes and Tribes as represented in Banares, 1872.</ref>. As noted in the introduction, the Khatri community have been positioned in roles of administration, rule and warfare within Punjab. The Khatris were the patrons ('yajamansas' or in Punjabi 'jajmani') of the ].{{Fact|date=May 2007}} Together the two communities represent the heritage of the ] center of NW India. The Khatris have been among the most staunch supporters and defenders of Hinduism in North-Western India. Many of them were prominent supporters of ] movement, which uses the ]s as the basis of their faith.


===Sikh Khatris=== ===Sikh Khatris===


A minority of the Khatris are Sikh.{{Fact|date=May 2007}}<!-- 60% of Punjab is Sikh, it is likely that Sikhs aren't a minority community but mostly equal --> The Sikh panth is not caste based, still the Khatris played a major role in development of Sikhism as a gentle and inclusive faith. All the Ten Sikh Gurus were Khatri. During the lifetime of the Gurus, most of their major supporters and Sikhs were Khatris.{{Fact|date=May 2007}} However it must be noted that the rejection of the caste system by Sikhs meant that the Gurus did not see themselves as Khatris. A minority of the Khatris are Sikh.{{Fact|date=May 2007}}<!-- 60% of Punjab is Sikh, it is likely that Sikhs aren't a minority community but mostly equal --> The Sikh panth is not caste based, still the Khatris played a major role in development of Sikhism as a gentle and inclusive faith. All the Ten Sikh Gurus were Khatri. During the lifetime of the Gurus, most of their major supporters and Sikhs were Khatris. However it must be noted that the rejection of the caste system by Sikhs meant that the Gurus did not see themselves as Khatris.


Khatris were the main leaders in Sikhism until the early 20th century when the ''Shiromani Gurudwara Prabhandak Committee'' objected to abuses by the Masand Khatris.{{Fact|date=April 2007}} After the formation of the Khalsa (1699), and especially during the reign of Ranjit Singh, Hindu Khatri families raised at least one son (usually the oldest) as an Amritdhari Sikh, this trend somewhat lessened after the ].


{{see also|Hinduism and Sikh Panth}} {{see also|Hinduism and Sikh Panth}}
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===Jain Khatris=== ===Jain Khatris===


The number of Khatris who are ] is very small. However one of the best known Jain munis in recent times, Acharya ] (also known as Shri Vijayanandsuri) (1841-1900) was a Kapoor Khatri, born at Lahra, Firozepur.{{Fact|date=April 2007}}<!-- Is their any proof of this? --> The number of Khatris who are ] is very small. However one of the best known Jain munis in recent times, Acharya ] (also known as Shri Vijayanandsuri) (1841-1900) was a Kapoor Khatri, born at Lahra, Firozepur.


===Muslim Khatris=== ===Muslim Khatris===
Khatris fought valiantly and bravely against Islamic forces in Punjab. Most Khatris did not feel pressure to convert when Muhammad Bin Qasim led Turkic tribes into India. After 400 years of resistance, some Khatris converted to Islam but they are not counted as Khatris any more, they are called '']s'' and have very little contact with the other Khatris.
⚫
With the advent of ] into ] and the southern ] with the invasion of the ] general, ] in ] ] and subsequent invasions by ] tribes from ] and the ] from the 11th century onwards, there were conversions of Hindus to the faith from among various Punjabi communities, including Khatris . While the conversions took place at different times, often when entire communities converted they retained their tribal, clan or caste affiliations as has been the norm in the ]. Some reasons for this were the fact that many of the conversions were forced conversions of entire villages and towns in order to maintain survival.<ref>See ]</ref> Similarly, the Khatris who converted to Islam, continue to retain a strong social identity and are known as '']s''. They came to become incorporated within the ], they are therefore not strictly Khatris in modern caste differentiation, but are Khatri in heritage.

Pakistan continues to have a prominent community of Khatris known as ]s as well as ]s. Some Muslim Khatris are famous for their achievements, the ] of Pakistan are examples of well-known and successful Islamic Khatris.


==Khatris and Indian Culture== ==Khatris and Indian Culture==


The Khatris were adversely affected by the partition of India, as it resulted in the loss of their traditional home regions. These Khatris migrated to India, where they were forced to start anew their life. Some Khatris are now modernizing along with the rest of India. The Khatris were adversely affected by the partition of India, as it resulted in the loss of their traditional home regions. The Khatris have traditionally been stauch supporters of preservation of the Indian traditions. While Khatris are now modernizing along with the rest of India, they have retained a strong affiliation with Indian values.


==Khatris Organizations== ==Khatris Organizations==


The sessions of Akhil Bhartiya Khatri Mahasabha were held in Lucknow in 1916, 1936, 1952 and 1980.{{Fact|date=April 2007}} Lucknow Khatri Sabha was established in 1927 and publication Khatri Hitashi was started in 1936.{{Fact|date=April 2007}} The sessions of Akhil Bhartiya Khatri Mahasabha were held in Lucknow in 1916, 1936, 1952 and 1980. Lucknow Khatri Sabha was established in 1927 and publication Khatri Hitashi was started in 1936.


==Divisions among the Khatris== ==Divisions among the Khatris==
<!-- This section was probably created per one of the references provided below, per ], please use inline referencing to make sure the claims are properly referenced and are easily verifiable --> <!-- This section was probably created per one of the references provided below, per ], please use inline referencing to make sure the claims are properly referenced and are easily verifiable -->
There are several subdivisions within the Khatri clans. There are the ''Dhai Ghar'' (i.e. 2 1/2 houses -the number 3 being considered unlucky) grouping comprising of ], ]/] and ]/].{{Fact|date=May 2007}}<!-- Char Ghar is sourced, Dhai Ghar isn't, it appers --> Along with the ] clan these four subdivisions form the ''Char Ghar'' (4 houses) grouping.<ref>M.A. Sherring, Hindu Castes and Tribes as represented in Banares, 1872.</ref>. There are several subdivisions within the Khatri clans. There are the ''Dhai Ghar'' (i.e. 2 1/2 houses -the number 3 being considered unlucky) grouping comprising of ], ]/] and ]/]. Most of these clans are related to royalty. Along with the ] clan these four subdivisions form the ''Char Ghar'' (4 houses) grouping.<ref>M.A. Sherring, Hindu Castes and Tribes as represented in Banares, 1872.</ref>.


With the ], ], ], ], ], ], ] and ] sub castes, all 12 form the barah-jati grouping <ref>M.A. Sherring, Hindu Castes and Tribes as represented in Banares, 1872.</ref>. Another group is called Bavanjai (52)<ref>M.A. Sherring, Hindu Castes and Tribes as represented in Banares, 1872.</ref> . Other regional clan groupings include the Sarin and the Kukhrain. With the ], ], ], ], ], ], ] and ] sub castes, all 12 form the barah-jati grouping <ref>M.A. Sherring, Hindu Castes and Tribes as represented in Banares, 1872.</ref>. Another group is called Bavanjai (52)<ref>M.A. Sherring, Hindu Castes and Tribes as represented in Banares, 1872.</ref> . Other regional clan groupings include the Sarin and the Kukhrain.


Regionally Churamani, Nanda, Khullar, Jerath, Chopra and Vig were particularly connected with ]; Bahl, Kapoor, Mehra, Seth, Beri, Sencher and Dhir with ]; Batte, Sondhi and Karir with ] and ]; Sehgal and Thapar with ]; and Had and Cham with ] <ref>http://punjabrevenue.nic.in/fdigs.htm Punjab District Gazeeters</ref> Regionally Churamani, Nanda, Khullar, Jerath, Chopra and Vig were particularly connected with ]; Bahl, Kapoor, Mehra, Seth, Beri, Sencher and Dhir with ]; Batte, Sondhi and Karir with ] and ]; Sehgal and Thapar with ]; and Had and Cham with ] <ref>http://punjabrevenue.nic.in/fdigs.htm Punjab District Gazeeters</ref>


The origin of many clans and surnames is not exactly clear.{{Fact|date=March 2007}} Most ] draw their relations together at some point after the ] settlement of Northern India. The origin of many clans and surnames is not exactly clear. Most ] draw their relations together at some point after the ] settlement of Northern India.


===Kukhran=== ===Kukhran===
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] (''also spelt Kukhrain'') are a regional subcaste of Khatris <ref>M.A. Sherring, Hindu Castes and Tribes as represented in Banares, 1872.</ref> of ten clans of ] originally from the town of Bhera in the Jech doab (Jhelum - Chenab interfluve) region of Sargodha district of Pakistani Punjab. In keeping with Khatri-like traditions, Bhera was an important trading outpost on the road to Kabul, and a 'taksal' (mint) during the reign of ]. Kukhrans are ] and ] peoples and have originally followed ], however a significant number adapted Sikhism during the 18th and 19th centuries. ] (''also spelt Kukhrain'') are a regional subcaste of Khatris <ref>M.A. Sherring, Hindu Castes and Tribes as represented in Banares, 1872.</ref> of ten clans of ] originally from the town of Bhera in the Jech doab (Jhelum - Chenab interfluve) region of Sargodha district of Pakistani Punjab. In keeping with Khatri-like traditions, Bhera was an important trading outpost on the road to Kabul, and a 'taksal' (mint) during the reign of ]. Kukhrans are ] and ] peoples and have originally followed ], however a significant number adapted Sikhism during the 18th and 19th centuries.


This, and also because many Hindu Kukhran families, as well as other Khatri and Khatri-like clans (]), raised at least one ] son after the formation of the ] in 1699, resulted in Kukhran family names, as well as other Khatri-like clan names, being present in both Hindu and Sikh communities worldwide. Common Kukhran names are Anand, Bhasin, Chadha, ],], ], ], Sahni/Sawhney, and Sethi; many of whom had migrated from present Pakistan to India during partition. The Prime Minister of India, Dr. ] is a Kukhran of the Kohli subcaste. This, and also because many Hindu Khatris raised at least one ] son after the formation of the ] in 1699, resulted in Kukhran family names, as well as other Khatri-like clan names, being present in both Hindu and Sikh communities. This was done because Khatris and Sikhs were both defenders of the Hindu Dharma in Punjab and thus they had a common cause. Common Kukhran names are Anand, Bhasin, Chadha, ],], ], ], ], and ]; many of whom had migrated from present Pakistan to India during partition. The Prime Minister of India, Dr. ] is a Kukhran of the Kohli subcaste.


{{see also|Kukhran}} {{see also|Kukhran}}
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*] *]
*] *]
*] *]
*] *]
*] *]
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*], Indian historian whose principal area of study is Ancient India. *], Indian historian whose principal area of study is Ancient India.
*] (Malhotra) ; former Head of the English Department ], Governor ]
*, ] *, ]


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*], Indo-British sculptor *], Indo-British sculptor
*]
*], artist and muralist who trained under Diego Rivera *], artist and muralist who trained under Diego Rivera
*]; Fashion Designer *]; Fashion Designer
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* ], Bollywood actor * ], Bollywood actor
* ], Bollywood actor * ], Bollywood actor
* ], award-winning Indo-Canadian director of the trilogy 'Earth','Wind','Fire' * ], award winning Indo-Canadian director of the trilogy 'Earth','Wind','Fire'
* ], Bollywood actor * ], Bollywood actor
* ], ]-] movie director (''Bend it like Beckham'', ''Bhaji on the Beach'') * ], innovative Kenyan-Brit movie director ('Bend it like Beckham', 'Bhaji on the Beach')
* ], the director and producer of the award winning movies as 'Salaam Bombay' * ], the director and producer of the award winning movies as 'Salaam Bombay'
* ], renowned movie director{{Fact|date=May 2007}} * ], renowned movie director{{Fact|date=May 2007}}
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* ], movie director (''Bandit Queen'', ''Elizabeth'') * ], movie director (''Bandit Queen'', ''Elizabeth'')
* The father-son duo of ] and ] actors, directors, and producers of Indian movies * The father-son duo of ] and ] actors, directors, and producers of Indian movies
* ], Bollywood movie director and producer * ], one of the top modern Bollywood movie directors


== Indian Independence Movement == == Indian Independence Movement ==
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* ], freedom fighter * ], freedom fighter
* ], freedom fighter, revolutionary comrade of Bhagat Singh * ], freedom fighter, revolutionary comrade of Bhagat Singh
* ] (Malhotra){{Fact|date=May 2007}}, freedom fighter and leader of the movement for creation of Punjabi Subah * ], freedom fighter known for great bravery and leader of the movement for creation of Punjabi Subah


== Journalism == == Journalism ==
* ] * ]
⚫ * ], author and commentator
* ] * ]
⚫ * ], author and commentator
* ] * ]
* ], editor of the Friday Times, Lahore, Pakistan * ], editor of the Friday Times, Lahore
* Pran Chopra
* ] * ]
* ], Indian Express
* ] * ]
* ] * ]
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=== Historical Soldiers === === Historical Soldiers ===


*], famous general of the Sikh military under Maharaja Ranjit Singh *], the most powerful general of the Sikh military under Maharaja Ranjit Singh
*Bhagat Malhotra, martyr against the hordes of Muhammad bin Qasim in the 8th century.


=== Indian Armed Forces === === Indian Armed Forces ===


==== Chiefs of Armed Forces ==== ==== Chiefs of Armed Forces ====
⚫
{{Unreferenced|date=April 2007}}
*Admiral S.M Nanda , ex Chief of Naval Staff of the Indian Navy *Admiral S.M Nanda , ex Chief of Naval Staff of the Indian Navy
*Admiral S.N Kohli, ex Chief of Naval Staff of the Indian Navy *Admiral S.N Kohli, ex Chief of Naval Staff of the Indian Navy
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*General Pran Nath Thapar, ex Chief of Staff of the Indian Army *General Pran Nath Thapar, ex Chief of Staff of the Indian Army
*General VP Mallik, ex Chief of Staff of the Indian Army *General VP Mallik, ex Chief of Staff of the Indian Army
*General Mair Singh Kapoor, martyr known for his great bravery


==== War Heroes and Martyrs ==== ==== War Heroes and Martyrs ====
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== Music == == Music ==


* ] (Sahgal/Sehgal), singer and actor in early North Indian (Hindi and Bengali) talkies. * ] (Sahgal/Sehgal), the legendary singer and actor in early North Indian (Hindi and Bengali) talkies, known as the Enrico Caruso of North India for his vocal range.


== Politics == == Politics ==
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*], former Prime Minister of India *], former Prime Minister of India
*] former Prime Minister of India *] former Prime Minister of India
*] (Kohli), current Prime minister of India *] (Kohli), present Prime minister of India
⚫

== Science == == Science ==


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* ], Hindi author ('Tamas') * ], Hindi author ('Tamas')
* ], pioneer ] * ], pioneer ]
* ], Indian novelist in English * ], pioneering Indian novelist in English
* ], ] * ], ]
* ], novelist who portrayed urban Khatri life after the partition of India in ']' * ], the novelist, who so sensitively portrayed urban Khatri life after the partition of India in 'A Suitable Boy'


=References= =References=

Revision as of 18:00, 9 May 2007

The Khatri's are a north Indian community that originated in the Potohar Plateau of Punjab. This region is historically connected with the composition of the Vedas and classics like the Mahabharata and Ashtadhyayi. Khatris have always been the prime protectors of Punjab.

When Pakistan and India gained independence, almost all Khatris came to India. In India today Khatri's live in all regions of India, but are mainly concentrated in Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh. Khatri's in India are Hindu or Sikh. Khatris of all these faiths collectively form one community.

Khatri Family Names

There are many Khatri family names. Most famous ones include Kapoor, Kohli, Malhotra, Mehra, Seth, Suri, Thapar.

Main article: List of Khatri surnames on Wiktionary

History of the Khatri Community

Historical Background

See also: Hinduism in Punjab and Indian caste system

The Khatris are a prominent Indian community that originated in the Potohar region of north-western Indian subcontinent. This region is of considerable historical significance in the development of the Indian culture since the composition of the Vedas and classics like the Mahabharata and Panini's Ashtadhyayi took place here.

The Potohar Plateau: the Khatris' place of origin

Main article: Potohar

The first place the Khatris exerted their military and administrative force upon was the Potohar Plateau. Many parts of Potohar (Rawalpindi, Jhelum etc.) before the Partition of 1947, were dominated by Sikh Khatri landowners. These families included clans such as Bindra, Bedi and Gujral (inter alia). According to historical records, many Khatri clans of Rawalpindi received jagirs from the British and/or Sher-e-Punjab, Maharaja Ranjit Singh, for contributions to civil-service i.e. Treasury, Administration and Military.

For the most part, Khatris have been in the civil, government, and military administrators roles for centuries. Khatris have sometimes expanded into trade and mercantile businesses, including architecture. The Hindu temples of Kabul built by the Khatris still exist. Khatris were prominent for their architectural works all over India.

Prominent historical Khatris

Many prominent historical figures have emerged from the Khatri. All ten Sikh Gurus were Khatri, belonging to the Bedi, Trehan, Bhalla and Sodhi subcastes. Raja Todar Mal was a Tandon Khatri who codified the revenue collection system as Revenue Minister for Akbar. Haqiqat Rai was a Puri Khatri whose martyrdom was celebrated on Basant Panchami in Lahore until independence. Hari Singh Nalwa, an Uppal Khatri , was a prominent general under Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The father and son pair of the Diwans Sawan Mal and Mul Raj Chopra were successive governors of Multan under Ranjit Singh. The former instituted vast improvement in agriculture, while the latter was instrumental in leading the revolt against the British to prevent the annexation of the Sikh Empire into the East India Company territory. Sadhu Singh Gulla fought against the British Empire in 19th century. Later on he died in prison or battle.

One of the most important character of famous Punjabi legend Raja Rasalu is minister Mahita Chopra. Most scholars agree that Raja Rasalu ruled from Sialkot and lived sometime between 400 to 500 AD. If it is true then Chopra family name, a Baraghar Khatri, developed by that time. Yudhishtira, the prime character of the Mahabharata, is the source of the Malhotra and Mehra clans of Khatris, who were descended from him.

Historical Mentions

Islamic rulers divided Khatri gots into three major groups; Baraghar, Bawanji, and Sarin. These divisions were reported by Emperor Akbar's close adviser Abu'l Fazal in his book Ain-i-Akbari(compiled in 1590 AD). These grouping is said to be happened at the time of Ala-uddin Khilji (1296-1316 AD).

Bhai Gurdas (b. AD 1551) in his "Varan Bhai Gurdas Ji", Vaar 8 - Pauri 10 (Khatri jatan) mentions: barahi, bavanjahi, Pavadhe, pachadhia, phalian, khokharainu, chaurotari and serin sections.

The family name mentioned above existed for long time. The four gots of Sikh gurus existed at least since 15th century AD.:

  • Guru Nanak: Bedi
  • Guru Angad: Trehan
  • Guru Amardas: Bhalla
  • All seven others: Sodhi

Khatris and Sun Worship

Raja Vanvihari Kapoor has written that major Khatri clans are named after Lord Sun. The Sarasvat Brahmin clan of which some of these these were yajamanas are also mentioned below.

  • Mitra Mehra Priests: Jetali
  • Kripakar Kapoor Priests: Pambu
  • Shankan Khanna Priests: Jhingana
  • Martanada Tandan Priests: Jhingana
  • Shreshtha Seth
  • Dhavan Dhavan
  • Mahendra Mahindru
  • Bahukar Bahora (Vohra)
  • Chakravali Chaupada (Chopra)
  • Karalagni Kakkar Priests: Kumadiye
  • Surya Suri
  • Sahasrakar Sahgal Priests: Mohile
  • Raja Fateh Chand Maini: Is chieftien of bihar during childhood of Guru Gobind Singh Ji and being a childless he adopted Bal Gobind Rai as his son.

According to Bhavishya Purana, Punjab indeed was an ancient center of Sun worship.

Religion

Hindu Khatris

A majority of Khatris are Hindus . As noted in the introduction, the Khatri community have been positioned in roles of administration, rule and warfare within Punjab. The Khatris were the patrons ('yajamansas' or in Punjabi 'jajmani') of the Saraswat Brahmins. Together the two communities represent the heritage of the Indo-Aryan center of NW India. The Khatris have been among the most staunch supporters and defenders of Hinduism in North-Western India. Many of them were prominent supporters of Arya Samaj movement, which uses the Vedas as the basis of their faith.

Sikh Khatris

A minority of the Khatris are Sikh. The Sikh panth is not caste based, still the Khatris played a major role in development of Sikhism as a gentle and inclusive faith. All the Ten Sikh Gurus were Khatri. During the lifetime of the Gurus, most of their major supporters and Sikhs were Khatris. However it must be noted that the rejection of the caste system by Sikhs meant that the Gurus did not see themselves as Khatris.


See also: Hinduism and Sikh Panth

Jain Khatris

The number of Khatris who are Jain is very small. However one of the best known Jain munis in recent times, Acharya Atmaram (also known as Shri Vijayanandsuri) (1841-1900) was a Kapoor Khatri, born at Lahra, Firozepur.

Muslim Khatris

Khatris fought valiantly and bravely against Islamic forces in Punjab. Most Khatris did not feel pressure to convert when Muhammad Bin Qasim led Turkic tribes into India. After 400 years of resistance, some Khatris converted to Islam but they are not counted as Khatris any more, they are called Punjabi Shaikhs and have very little contact with the other Khatris.

Khatris and Indian Culture

The Khatris were adversely affected by the partition of India, as it resulted in the loss of their traditional home regions. The Khatris have traditionally been stauch supporters of preservation of the Indian traditions. While Khatris are now modernizing along with the rest of India, they have retained a strong affiliation with Indian values.

Khatris Organizations

The sessions of Akhil Bhartiya Khatri Mahasabha were held in Lucknow in 1916, 1936, 1952 and 1980. Lucknow Khatri Sabha was established in 1927 and publication Khatri Hitashi was started in 1936.

Divisions among the Khatris

There are several subdivisions within the Khatri clans. There are the Dhai Ghar (i.e. 2 1/2 houses -the number 3 being considered unlucky) grouping comprising of Khanna, Kapur/Kapoor and Mehra/Malhotra. Most of these clans are related to royalty. Along with the Seth clan these four subdivisions form the Char Ghar (4 houses) grouping..

With the Chopra, Dhavan, Mahendra, Sahgal, Talwar, Tandon, Vohra and Wadhawan sub castes, all 12 form the barah-jati grouping . Another group is called Bavanjai (52) . Other regional clan groupings include the Sarin and the Kukhrain.

Regionally Churamani, Nanda, Khullar, Jerath, Chopra and Vig were particularly connected with Ludhiana; Bahl, Kapoor, Mehra, Seth, Beri, Sencher and Dhir with Jagraon; Batte, Sondhi and Karir with Machhiwara and Bahlolpur; Sehgal and Thapar with Raikot; and Had and Cham with Khanna

The origin of many clans and surnames is not exactly clear. Most Kshatriya draw their relations together at some point after the Indo-Aryan settlement of Northern India.

Kukhran

File:Manmohan singh with bush.jpg
Dr. Manmohan Singh with President of the United States George W. Bush

Kukhran (also spelt Kukhrain) are a regional subcaste of Khatris of ten clans of Punjab, originally from the town of Bhera in the Jech doab (Jhelum - Chenab interfluve) region of Sargodha district of Pakistani Punjab. In keeping with Khatri-like traditions, Bhera was an important trading outpost on the road to Kabul, and a 'taksal' (mint) during the reign of Ranjit Singh. Kukhrans are Aryan and Vedic peoples and have originally followed Hinduism, however a significant number adapted Sikhism during the 18th and 19th centuries.

This, and also because many Hindu Khatris raised at least one Sikh son after the formation of the Khalsa in 1699, resulted in Kukhran family names, as well as other Khatri-like clan names, being present in both Hindu and Sikh communities. This was done because Khatris and Sikhs were both defenders of the Hindu Dharma in Punjab and thus they had a common cause. Common Kukhran names are Anand, Bhasin, Chadha, Chandok,Gadhok, Gadok, Kohli, Sabharwal, Sawhney, and Sethi; many of whom had migrated from present Pakistan to India during partition. The Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh is a Kukhran of the Kohli subcaste.

See also: Kukhran

See Also

Distinguished Khatris

The following is a list of eminent Khatris of India and Pakistan:

Academics

Art

Business

Cinema

Indian Independence Movement

Journalism

Judiciary

Military

Historical Soldiers

  • Hari Singh Nalwa, the most powerful general of the Sikh military under Maharaja Ranjit Singh
  • Bhagat Malhotra, martyr against the hordes of Muhammad bin Qasim in the 8th century.

Indian Armed Forces

Chiefs of Armed Forces

  • Admiral S.M Nanda , ex Chief of Naval Staff of the Indian Navy
  • Admiral S.N Kohli, ex Chief of Naval Staff of the Indian Navy
  • Air Chief Marshal Om Prakash Mehra , ex Chief of Indian Airforce
  • Air Chief Marshal Nirmal Chandra Suri , ex Chief of Indian Airforce
  • Air Chief Marshal Pratap Chandra Lal, ex Chief of Indian Airforce
  • Air Chief Marshal Satish Kumar Sareen , ex Chief of Indian Airforce
  • General J. J. Singh, current Chief of Staff of the Indian Army
  • General Nirmal Chander Vij, ex Chief of Staff of the Indian Army
  • General Om Prakash Malhotra, ex Chief of Staff of the Indian Army, Governor of the Punjab
  • General Pran Nath Thapar, ex Chief of Staff of the Indian Army
  • General VP Mallik, ex Chief of Staff of the Indian Army
  • General Mair Singh Kapoor, martyr known for his great bravery

War Heroes and Martyrs

Other distinguished Soldiers

Modelling

  • Amrita Thapar, Miss India Universe 2005
  • Celina Jaitley, Miss India Universe 2001
  • Manisha Kohli, Miss India World 1987
  • Natasha Suri, reigning Pond's Femina Miss India-World.
  • Neha Kapur, Miss India-Universe 2006.
  • Nikita Anand, Miss India Universe 2003
  • Priyanka Chopra, Miss World 2000
  • Rekha Handa, Miss India 1983
  • Sonali Sehgal, Miss India International
  • Sweety Grewal, Miss India 1st runner-up 1983

Music

  • Kundan Lal Saigal (Sahgal/Sehgal), the legendary singer and actor in early North Indian (Hindi and Bengali) talkies, known as the Enrico Caruso of North India for his vocal range.

Politics

Historical Administrators

Members of Parliament (India)

  • Vijay Kumar Malhotra MP, Deputy leader BJP
  • Jagmohan Malhotra, former Cabinet Minister for Tourism and Culture, Governor Of Kashmir, Lt. Governor of Delhi

Prime Ministers of India

Science

Sports

Writing

References

  1. http://punjabgovt.nic.in/Culture/Historical.htm Punjab Historical Background
  2. http://www.ece.lsu.edu/kak/wonder.pdf Wonder that was Kashmir, Subhash Kak
  3. As Kshatriyas
  4. http://www.punjabheritage.org/cultural-heritage/legend---stories-from-the-life-of-hari-singh-nalwa.html Stories from the Life of Hari Singh Nalwa by Dr. Vanit Nalwa
  5. Four Legends of King Rasalu of Sialkot, The Folk-Lore Journal, 1883 Folklore Enterprises, Ltd, p. 129-151
  6. M.A. Sherring, Hindu Castes and Tribes as represented in Banares, 1872.
  7. M.A. Sherring, Hindu Castes and Tribes as represented in Banares, 1872.
  8. M.A. Sherring, Hindu Castes and Tribes as represented in Banares, 1872.
  9. M.A. Sherring, Hindu Castes and Tribes as represented in Banares, 1872.
  10. http://punjabrevenue.nic.in/fdigs.htm Punjab District Gazeeters
  11. M.A. Sherring, Hindu Castes and Tribes as represented in Banares, 1872.
  • Public Domain This article incorporates text from a publication now in the public domain: Chisholm, Hugh, ed. (1911). Encyclopædia Britannica (11th ed.). Cambridge University Press. {{cite encyclopedia}}: Missing or empty |title= (help)
  • Jwalaprasad Mishra, Jati Bhaskar, 1914.
  • M.A. Sherring, Hindu Castes and Tribes as represented in Banares, 1872.
  • Raja Vanvihari Kapur, The History of Khatris
  • The Khatris, a socio-historical study, Baij Nath Puri, M.N. Publishers, 1988.
  • Bhai Gurdas Ji, Varan Bhai Gurdas Ji, Vaar 8 - Pauri 10.
  • The Indian Diaspora in Central Asia and Its Trade, 1550-1900 by Scott Cameron Levi.
  • Denzil Ibbetson, Edward MacLagan, H.A. Rose "A Glossary of The Tribes & Casts of The Punjab & North-West Frontier Province", 1911 AD, Page 501-526, Vol II,
  • Ibid, Page 537-538, Vol II.
  • Temple, R.C. "The Legends of The Panjab", 1884, Reprinted by Institute of Folk Heritage, Islamabd, 1981.
  • Khatris are Kshatri http://punjabrevenue.nic.in/gaz_ldh8.htm
  • Mahan Kosh by Bhai Kahan Singh Nabha
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