Bondil caste members interchangeably use the bondili surname. They are the mix of rajputs and shudras of South India who are known to originally migrate from Bundelkhand. The individuals later on adopted Singh surname to glorify their community.
It is known that Bondils are the original residents of Bundelkhand. Hence, their surname is a derivation from their original state – Bundelkhand. The north Indian community who migrated and settled in South India historically served as constables beyond soldiers and sepoys. They were mostly found serving the areas of Chittoor and Vellore with their unprecedented dedication and hardwork. The traditional Bondils were allotted respectable roles and held a good status in the society. The Hindu clan celebrated the usual festivals of Holi and Diwali with a minute variation in their customs and beliefs.
The Agnivanshi rajput roots evolved and started making their mark in the field of politics and education with the passage of time. Many Bondil caste members who served during the colonial and historical era are now working in government post offices and administration systems. Many of the individuals who held agrarian ancestral trades left those occupations and embraced urban lifestyles.
Bondil culture and caste details
Majority of the Bondils are shudra by status. They were the sepoys and constables during the earlier times. Some of the caste members carrying the Singh titles fall under kshathriya clan who were Rajputs. They are not shudras and have despite carrying the Bondil surname. They have ardent marriage customs and death rituals like the Rajputs of the ancient period.
The Bondil culture degenerated from one generation to another. The sects of Bondil adopted burial of the dead instead of the normal hindu cremation ceremonies. The community members are followers of Vishnu and Shiva . They also visit the local deities of the village as well.
Many caste members were zamindar of the party. They carried Lala as their surname which was eventually demolished. Eventually Singh title was chosen in order to represent themselves and to create distinction with the shudra sect of Bondil.
The rajput Bondil caste members avoided eating together with the shudra Bondils. They were allowed to sit and eat only when they were the Singh Bondils of the same set. Shudras were forbidden from visiting temples and were given capital punishment in case they participated in the religious activities. The system is now non-existent as the Indian government has taken urgent steps towards removing the discrimination of shudra caste members .
Final words
The lower caste or scheduled caste Bondil members are given due protection by the government of India. They are no longer disallowed to visit the temples or participate in the rituals. Anybody found practising untouchability and discrimination with the caste is Legally punished by the law. Bondil samaj is provided with special quota and reservation in the Central and state government jobs. They are even welcomed in the high-end universities like AIIMS, IIT and IIM with lower cut-off marks and special arrangements.