The history of Bania/Khandelwal Caste
The history of Bania has its reference to the Banyan tree. It is believed that once a Bania trader sat under the Banyan tree and created a full-proof business plan!
The Khandelwal caste has existed for more than 5000 years. They are specifically known as traders (vyaparis) and belong to the third caste in the Varna. The Hindu caste pyramid provides a modest status to the Banias despite them being financially ahead of kshathriya and Brahmans.
India has a long history of Bania groups which includes Khandelwal living in multiple places of the country.
The Rajasthani Khandelwal Banias speak marwadi as their mother tongue. The legendary group is a major part of Sanatan Dharm and is known for its wealth accumulation, deep rituals and religious practices. The humble community of Khandelwal are mostly seen consciously managing businesses and balancing personal lives together. They are recognised for their strong business knowledge and empowering ideas.
Khandelwal gotra system
A very famous Khandelwal Caste has its direct link to Khandela – Sikar, Rajasthan. The prosperous Town has a total of 72 gotra systems that belong to those 72 sons of sage Khandelwal. The Khandelwal community got its name from those sons.
Khandelwal community traditions
As seen in the majority of the Khandelwal Caste, women are dedicated to managing domestic roles. Earlier, women had a very limited contribution in business and commerce. With time, the practices have evolved and Khandelwal Mahila mandals have emerged to be the symbols of transformation. The women of this community are now working as entrepreneurs, doctors and educators while balancing both work and domestic life.
Khandelwal gotra Kuldevi and pilgrimage site location
The Goddess of Khandelwal Caste, also known as the kuldevi, establishes the social order and matrimonial guidelines. The deep-rooted Khandelwals also have a history in Jainism through various customs and practices. There are a total of 84 subgroups in Khandelwal community and each subgroup worships their own kuldevta and Kuldevi. The classical principles of commerce and trade are the base of their growth. The total socio economic development this group integrates from their classical principles such as wealth accumulation and righteousness.
Khandelwal community is dedicated to Kuldevi and Kuldevatha. However, most of the time, they worship Aman Mata which is located at Nausal Madan gunj and Jeenmata at Sikar, Rajasthan. The roots of the community reflect their Rajasthani culture in most of the traditions.
What are the lives of Khandelwal Banias?
Khandelwal Banias are mostly high income group communities. They are involved in corporate businesses and fund lending for various start-ups. The caste members are known for their charity and religious beliefs. They are a faithful set of Hindus who always believe in karma and a good deeds.
Famous personalities like Ashok Khandelwal and Rajeev Khandelwal have made their mark in the Indian petrochemical and film industries. You can find these Bania members doing well in various fields of medicine, business finance and academics.