The Kashyap gotra caste originally belongs to the Brahmin community. The clan originated from a hermit (rishi) named Kashyap. The upper caste in Hindus, Kashyap community descended in the Mediaeval period. The fictional character of Hindu Purana, Rishi Kashyap was amongst those sacred saptarishis who were well known for their knowledge of Vedas and religion.
Kashyap Rishi had his connection with Lord Brahma. According to various sources, the Kashmir Valley was originally named after Kashyap Rishi.
The Kashyap Gotra caste has its name mentioned in the mythological books as well. The unique history behind this caste is very interesting to know. On digging deeper, it was found that Rishi Kashyap was the father of multiple living beings that included Gods, demons, humans and even serpents. Known to be the universal father, the Kashyap caste is the expansion of his spiritual resilience.
Is Kashyap caste general or OBC/ST ?
Many people stay quite confused whether Kashyap surname is general or OBC. Well, you can find Kashyap surname in Brahmin as well as other Varanas. However, originally the Kashyap caste gotra belongs to Brahmin lineage. But it is also quite common for other Hindu Varnas such as Banias and kshtrias to use this surname.
Are kashyap Obc or brahmin ?
A few Obc communities do use the kashyap surname. The ones who use this as the last name are commonly related to masonry, water carrying and fishing tasks. These are mostly dhimar or kahar communities who have lately started using Kashyap surname to elevate the name of Sapta Rishi Kashyap.
Hence, if a person belongs to Kashyap caste gotra, they may be brahman or obc who have adopted the surname Kashyap.
Why is Kashyap gotra common in many communities?
People joining Sanatan Dharma from multiple backgrounds are commonly assigned Kashyap gotra. Saptarishi Kashyap is known to be the father of all living beings. Hence, anybody who is not aware of their original lineage can go for the universal gotra – Kashyap.
How are some kashyap Rajputs?
Historically, the Mehra Kashyap community found in northern India are Rajputs. They have adopted the title of Kashyap claiming the inheritance from kashyap rishi. This surname Kashyap not only dignifies their hard-working community but also provides them a better political representation. The kashyap Rajput community outshines the rich history of courage and valour. Even if they fall under the reservation category, they still hold a very remarkable past.
The single Kashyap gotra is absolutely widespread and is surprisingly vivid. People looking for Hare Krishna marriage can find Kashyap gotra in all Varnas including kShathriya, rajput, vaishya, brahman and Obc.
Kashyap being a diversified gotra has its roots in various castes. It is all because of the binding history of the spiritual ancestor saptarishi Kashyap.
Final Words
Talking from an astrological point of view, Kashyap gotra caste is known for its protective nature, wisdom and adaptability. The lineage of Saptarishi Kashyap covers up humans, Gods, working classes and priests under one umbrella. You can take it as a pride to be a part of this sage that remarks unity in diversity.