Brahmin (ब्राह्मण ) in India

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कर्मण्येवाधिकारस्ते मा फलेषु कदाचन ।
 मा कर्मफलहेतुर्भूर्मा ते सङ्गोऽस्त्वकर्मणि॥

गायत्री मंत्र का अर्थ:

हे मेरी अत्यंत सम्माननीय प्रकृति देवी (प्रकृति), जो देवताओं (दिव्य शक्तियों) के बीच प्रसिद्ध हैं, हम आपकी आराधना करते हैं। हमारे मन को शुभ दिशा में प्रेरित करें। हमें भौतिक संसार (भू) से लेकर आकाशीय संसार (भुव:) तक और उच्च स्तर के अस्तित्व (स्व:) तक ले चलें।

The origin of the four varnas (social classes) in Hinduism, including the Brahmins, is described in various Hindu scriptures, and the concept is complex and multifaceted. The idea of the Brahmins being born from the mouth of Para  Brahma is indeed mentioned in some Hindu texts, including the Srimad Bhagwat Mahapuran and other Puranas.

According to the Vedic and Puranic cosmogony, Purusha (Para Brahma) is considered the creator of the universe. The varnas are said to have originated from different parts of his body. The Brahmins are traditionally associated with the mouth, the Kshatriyas (warriors) with the arms, the Vaishyas (merchants and farmers) with the thighs, and the Shudras (laborers and service providers) with the feet.

ॐ नारायणाय विद्महे। वासुदेवाय धीमहि।

 तन्नो विष्णु प्रचोदयात्।।

This allegorical description is found in texts like the Purusha Sukta of the Rigveda, which is a hymn that explains the cosmic creation and the origins of the four varnas. It's also worth mentioning that interpretations and understandings of these concepts can vary among different schools of Hindu philosophy and among individuals.

ॐ त्र्य॑म्बकं यजामहे सु॒गन्धिं॑ पुष्टि॒वर्ध॑नम्- 

Rigveda 7.59.12

गुरुर्ब्रह्मा ग्रुरुर्विष्णुः गुरुर्देवो महेश्वरः। 

गुरुः साक्षात् परं ब्रह्म तस्मै श्री गुरवे नमः॥

*Brahmin as a Varna (Caste): In the traditional Indian caste system, Brahmins are considered the highest varna (class). They are traditionally priests, scholars, and teachers, responsible for performing religious rituals and preserving sacred knowledge. The caste system, including the role of Brahmins, has been a significant aspect of Indian society for centuries.

Brahmin as a Social Group: Beyond the caste system, the term "Brahmin" is also used to refer to a social group of individuals who identify with Brahminical traditions and practices. This group often emphasizes education, knowledge, and adherence to religious rituals.

Brahmin in Hinduism: In Hindu religious terms, Brahmin is one of the four varnas, along with Kshatriya (warriors and rulers), Vaishya (merchants and farmers), and Shudra (laborers and service providers). Brahmins are traditionally associated with priestly duties, including conducting rituals, reciting sacred texts, and offering guidance on religious matters.

Symbolic Significance: The term "Brahmin" can also be used more broadly to signify someone with deep knowledge, wisdom, or scholarly qualities, irrespective of their caste background. They are generally  called Pandit.

ॐ जपाकुसुम संकाशं काश्यपेयं महाद्युतिम।

 तमोहरिं सर्वपापघ्नं प्रणतोSस्मि दिवाकरम् ।।

 The term "Brahmin" can be translated  as individuals who possess deep understanding and the ability to bring joy and satisfaction to Brahma, as described in the Vedas.वेदों के व्याख्यानकर्ता यास्क मुनि के निरुक्त के अनुसार, ब्रह्म जानाति ब्राह्मणः अर्थात् ब्राह्मण वह है जो ब्रह्म (अंतिम सत्य, ईश्वर या परम ज्ञान) को जानता है। अतः ब्राह्मण का अर्थ है "ईश्वर का ज्ञाता"। ऋग्वेद के अनुसार ब्रह्म अर्थात ईश्वर को रमण  करनेवाला ब्राहमण होता है।

                             

स गङ्गा स गया सेतुः स काशी स च पुष्करम् ।
 जिह्वाग्रे वर्तते यस्य हरिरित्यक्षरद्वयम् ।।

                  

Para Brahman (Sanskrit: परब्रह्म):-             

In Hindu philosophy, Para Brahman or Param Brahman (Sanskrit: परब्रह्म, romanized: parabrahma) represents the "Supreme Brahman" transcending all descriptions and conceptualizations. It embodies formlessness, devoid of Maya, eternally permeating all aspects of the universe and beyond.

According to the sacred scriptures of Sanatana Dharma, it was Para Brahma who initially revealed the wisdom contained in the Vedas for the betterment of humanity at the dawn of creation. These Vedas, considered timeless truths, were transmitted through an oral tradition for countless years until Veda Vyasa is believed to have compiled them into written form. The concept of Brahman is a central element found within the Vedas.

Brahman is a key concept (Granth) found in the Vedas. The Brahmans are one of the four ancient layers of texts within the Vedas.

Sage Vyasa imparting profound knowledge of (Shruti) Vedas"&
(Smriti) Puranas to Sage Sukhdev and other sages.

ॐ प्रज्ञानं ब्रह्म

They are primarily a digest incorporating legends, the explanation of Vedic rituals, and in some cases philosophy.

ॐ अहं ब्रह्मास्मि

They are embedded within each of the four Vedas and form a part of Hindu Sruti literature.

ॐ तत्त्वमसि

ॐ अयमात्मा ब्रह्म

Brahmins in Sanatan Dharma :-

Within Hinduism, the Brahmin varna (class) is dedicated to the roles of priests, educators (acharya), and guardians of sacred wisdom that has been passed down through generations. Brahmins engage in the study of Vedic literature, including the Vedas, Vedangas, Upvedas, Puranas, and more, and they impart knowledge of these sacred texts to individuals from various castes. 

पुरुषः स परः पार्थ भक्त्या लभ्यस्त्वनन्यया ।
 यस्यान्तःस्थानि भूतानि येन सर्वमिदं ततम् ॥

ब्राह्मण- वसुधैव कुटुम्बकम (सारी वसुधा एक परिवार है) में विश्वास रखते हैं.Today, the Brahmins comprise about 5% of the total population of India and which is around 6.5 crores.

ॠग्वेदोऽथ यजुर्वेदः सामवेदोऽप्यथर्वणः ।
अधीतस्तेन येनोक्तं हरिरित्यक्षरद्वयम् ।।

Brahmins also take on the responsibility of conducting temple rituals and presiding over significant events such as weddings. Traditionally, they have acted as spiritual mentors and educators to Kshatriya rulers and warriors, imparting teachings on dharma to the political and military elites. They conduct ceremonies for individuals from all walks of life. Additionally, Brahmins have authored numerous religious texts, mantras, and hymns. 

Principles of Brahmins.

The foundational tenets of Brahmins encompass the following principles:

1.Embrace challenges and criticism from revered and renowned figures with resilience and grace, recognizing them as opportunities for growth and self-reflection.

2.Extend empathy and support to individuals who are poor, helpless, bereaved, younger, less experienced, or occupy subordinate roles, fostering an environment of encouragement and empowerment.

3.Cultivate and nurture meaningful connections with peers, fostering trust, mutual respect, and a sense of camaraderie.

4. Practicing detachment from the Shadripu, which encompasses the six inner enemies or negative emotions—Desire/Lust (Kama), Anger (Krodha), Greed (Lobha), Ego (Mada), Attachment (Moha), and Jealousy (Matsarya)—is integral to mastering control over the senses. This discipline involves regulating one's perception and interaction with the external world. By transcending desires, anger, greed, ego, attachment, and jealousy, individuals cultivate inner calmness and liberation. Additionally, exercising restraint over sensory impulses is emphasized. The attachment of the senses weakens reasoning, leading to a decline in memory, impaired intelligence, and eventual ruin.

5.Approach interactions with all living beings with a sense of equanimity (समभाव), acknowledging the inherent value and interconnectedness of every creature, and treating them with fairness and compassion.

These principles collectively contribute to creating a harmonious and compassionate environment, fostering positive relationships and promoting overall well-being for oneself and others. It is believed that those who adhere to these principles, Parabrahma (परब्रह्म)  pleased with them and they receive the blessings of Parabrahma (परब्रह्म).

Rule of Conduct for Brahmins:-
Gautama's Dharmasutra, the oldest of surviving Hindu Dharma-sutras,  states in verses 9.54–9.55 that a Brahmin should not participate or perform a ritual unless he is invited to do so, but he may attend. Gautama outlines the following rules of conduct for a Brahmin, in Chapters 8 and 9.
1. Be always truthful
2.Conduct himself as an Aryan
3.Teach his art only to virtuous men
4. Follow rules of ritual purification
5.Study Vedas with delight
6. Never hurt any living creature
7. Be gentle but dedicated
8.Have self-control
9. Be kind, liberal towards everyone

Virtues are more important than rituals:-
Gautama Dharmasutra 9.24–9.

In accordance with the Gautama Dharmasutra (9.24–9), Brahmins are expected to embody eight essential virtues. These virtues encompass truthfulness, imparting knowledge to the virtuous, adherence to ritualistic norms, dedicated study of the Vedas, the practice of gentleness and nonviolence, exercising self-control and kindness, and other commendable qualities.

According to Gautama Dharma Sastras, a Brahmin who has successfully completed the forty sacramental rites but lacks these eight virtues fails to attain unity with or residence in the same realm as other Brahmins. Conversely, a Brahmin who may have performed only a subset of the rites but possesses these eight virtues is deemed worthy of such union and residence.

🌍ॐसमुद्र-वसने देवि,पर्वत-स्तन-मंडिते।विष्णु-पत्नि
नमस्तुभ्यं,पाद-स्पर्शं क्षमस्व मे॥

योगस्थः कुरु कर्माणि सङ्गं त्यक्त्वा धनञ्जय ।
 सिद्ध्यसिद्धयोः समो भूत्वा समत्वं योग उच्यते ॥ 

All the leaves of the Tulsi tree are deemed equal for sanctity and all religious purposes, irrespective of their size or position, similarly  all Brahmins are esteemed equally ,despite variations in their roles and positions.🙏

The divisions of the Brahmins:-

According to ancient Hindu scriptures, Brahmins are considered to be a unified group, yet they are classified into two categories known as Pancha Gauda and Pancha Dravida. This classification is rooted in geographical distinctions, with Pancha Gauda Brahmins associated with the northern regions of India and Pancha Dravida Brahmins linked to the southern regions. The delineation is primarily based on cultural and regional variations.

Furthermore, the subdivisions within Pancha Gauda and Pancha Dravida, totaling 84 types, are attributed to factors such as geographical locations, migration patterns, regionalism, historical considerations, achievements, and awards. Additionally, Brahmins are categorized into ten types based on their respective occupations, character traits, and other relevant factors, as outlined in ancient Hindu traditions.

Panch-Gaud and Panch-Dravida:-

It is pertinent to mention here, Panch-Gaud and Panch-Dravida are two chief divisions of Brahmins, as per the shloka from Rajatarangini of Kalhan / Kalhana:
कर्णाटकाश्च तैलङ्गा द्राविडा महाराष्ट्रकाः ।
गुर्जराश्चेति पञ्चैव द्राविडा विन्ध्यदक्षिणे ॥
सारस्वताः कान्यकुब्जा गौडा उत्कलमैथिलाः ।
पञ्चगौडा इति ख्याता विन्ध्स्योत्तरवासिनः ॥ 

Shivashtakam (शिवाष्टकम).Composed

 by Sri Adi Shankaracharya.

1.Panch-Gaud Brahmins:

The term "Panch-Gaud" translates to "five northern." These Brahmins are associated with the northern regions of India.

The five sub-groups or categories included in Panch-Gaud are Saraswat, Kanyakubja, Gauda, Maithil, and Utkala.

Each of these sub-groups has its own distinct cultural and regional characteristics, and they are further divided based on specific traditions and practices.

2.Panch-Dravida Brahmins:

"Panch-Dravida" means "five southern." This classification includes Brahmins from the southern regions of India.

The five sub-groups within Panch-Dravida are Andhra, Dravida, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Kerala.

Like Panch-Gaud, Panch-Dravida Brahmins have unique customs, rituals, and practices that are influenced by their regional affiliations.

These classifications are primarily used in the context of Vedic rituals and the study of ancient Hindu scriptures. They highlight the diverse cultural and regional variations within the Brahmin community in India, reflecting the rich tapestry of the country's social and religious landscape. It's important to note that these classifications are historical and cultural, and individuals may identify with a specific group based on their ancestral roots and traditions.

The Pancha (five) Dravidian Brahmins:-
The Pancha-Dravida are those who originally resided to the south of the mountain Vindhyas.

प्राणप्रयाणपाथेयं संसारव्याधिनाशनम् ।
 दुःखात्यन्त परित्राणं हरिरित्यक्षरद्वयम् ।।

There are five sub-groups of Pancha Dravida Brahmins of India. They are as under. 
1.Maharashtraka (Maharashtrian Brahmins).

2.Talianga (Telugu Brahmins).

3. Dravidian (Brahmins of Tamil Nadu and Kerala).

"सकृदुच्चरित येन हरिरित्यक्षरद्वयम् ।
बद्ध परिकरस्तेन मोक्षाय गमनं प्रति"॥ 

4. Karnataka/ Kannada Brahmin.

5.Gurjara (Gujarati, Marwari and Mewari Brahmins)  

The Pancha(five)Gauda Brahmins: -Pancha Gauda is one of the two major groupings of Brahmins in Hinduism, of which the other was Pancha-Dravida.The Pancha Gauda Brahmins are those who originally resided to the north of the mountain Vindhyas. There are five sub-groups of Pancha Gauda  Brahmins of India. They are as under. 

1. Gaud Brahmin.

2. Saraswat Brahmin (including Goud Saraswat Brahmins, who have migrated to the south of Vindhyas)

3. Kanyakubja Brahmin ( Brahmin from Kanauj region) 

4. Maithil Brahmin ( Brahmin from Mithila region).

5. Utkala Brahmin.

Details about Pancha(five) Gauda Brahmins:-
1. Gaud(गौड़) Brahmin:-
 The Gaur Brahmins are a prominent Brahmin community of India. Gaud Brahmins have led from the front in defending the concept of India from the Vedic ages. Chanakya was a Gaur Brahmin and a big advocate of Brahmins picking up arms to defend India.  Historically Gaur Brahmins have been dharma gurus of a number of Hindu kings from  Bengal to Bihar to modern-day Uttar Pradesh.

देहिनोऽस्मिन्यथा देहे कौमारं यौवनं जरा।
तथा देहान्तरप्राप्तिर्धीरस्तत्र न मुह्यति॥

Origin of Gaur Brahmins:-

The Gaur Brahmins are believed to have their origins in the Kurukshetra region and initially resided in the land between the Yamuna and Sutlej rivers. Today, they are most densely populated in the western half of Northern India, particularly in states like Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, as well as in the western regions of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. Significant communities of Gaur Brahmins can also be found in other northern Indian states.

Gaur Brahmins assert that the other primary divisions of North Indian Brahmins were originally Gaur Brahmins and adopted their current classifications as Saraswat Brahmins, Kanyakubja Brahmins, Maithil Brahmins, and Utkala Brahmins after migrating to their current provinces.

According to an alternative perspective, Gaur Brahmins are the Brahmins of the Indian Subcontinent who were invited for Yagya (sacrificial rituals) and Vedic studies in the Gauda region of Bengal in ancient times and subsequently settled there. Another unverified source suggests that these Brahmins were brought to the Gauda Kingdom by the deity Parashurama in ancient times. Over different periods, these Brahmins later migrated to North India, and today, Gaur Brahmins are found in regions like Rajasthan, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Goa, Kashmir, and even Uttarakhand.

🌈 Note:-

It is pertinent to mention here the Gaur Brahmins claim that the other four main divisions of North Indian Brahmins were originally Gaur, and have acquired their present designations of Saraswat Brahmins, Kanyakubja Brahmins, Maithil Brahmins and Utkala Brahmins by immigrating to the provinces where they are now domiciled. [Source-Wikipedia]

2. Maithil(मैथिल) Brahmin:-

एवं प्रवर्तितं चक्रं नानुवर्तयतीह यः।
अघायुरिन्द्रियारामो मोघं पार्थ स जीवति।।

Maithili Brahmins are a sub-group of Brahmins, the highest varna (class) in the traditional Indian caste system. They specifically belong to the Maithil region, which encompasses parts of Bihar in India and the southern Terai region in Nepal. Here are some key points about Maithili Brahmins:

Geographical Origin: Maithili Brahmins trace their origins to the Maithil region, which has a rich cultural and historical heritage. This region has been historically known for its association with the Mithila Kingdom and has been a center of learning and scholarship.

Cultural Significance: Maithili Brahmins have played a significant role in preserving and promoting the cultural and intellectual heritage of the Maithil region. They have been traditionally involved in activities such as teaching, performing religious rituals, and contributing to the literary and artistic traditions of the area.

Language and Literature: Maithili Brahmins have a deep connection to the Maithili language, which has its own distinct literary tradition. Scholars and poets from this community have contributed significantly to Maithili literature, producing works in fields such as poetry, philosophy, and religious texts.

Occupations: Like other Brahmin groups, Maithili Brahmins historically engaged in occupations related to education, priesthood, and scholarly pursuits. They have been custodians of religious knowledge and have played a vital role in the transmission of cultural and religious practices.

Cultural Practices: Maithili Brahmins observe various cultural and religious practices that are specific to their community. These practices often include rituals, festivals, and ceremonies that reflect the broader cultural and religious traditions of the Maithil region.

It's important to approach discussions about caste and sub-groups with sensitivity, recognizing that societal perspectives and practices are diverse and can evolve over time. While the caste system has been officially abolished in India, its influence persists in certain social structures and practices. They are one of the five Pancha-Gauda Brahmin communities.

3.Kanyakubja(कान्यकुब्ज) Brahmin :-

उद्धरेदात्मनात्मानं नात्मानमवसादयेत्।
आत्मैव ह्यात्मनो बन्धुरात्मैव रिपुरात्मनः॥

Kanyakubja Brahmins, also referred to as Kannaujia or Kanojia Brahmins, constitute a Brahmin community primarily located in Northern and Central India, with a notable presence in certain parts of the East, particularly in the states of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. They hold the classification of being one of the Pancha Gauda Brahmin communities indigenous to the northern regions of the Vindhyas.

The primary gotras (clans) of Kanyakubja Brahmins include Kashyapa, Bhardwaj, Shandilya, Sanskrit, Katyayan, Upmanyu, Kashyap, Dhananjaya, Kavistha, Gautam, Garg, Bhardwaj, Kaushik, Vashishtha, Vatsa, and Parashar. These gotras are integral to their social and genealogical identity, reflecting the diverse ancestral lineages within the Kanyakubja Brahmin community. They are classified as one of the Pancha Gauda Brahmin communities native to the north of the Vindhyas.

4. Saraswat(सारस्वत) Brahmin:-

अनन्याश्चिन्तयन्तो मां ये जनाः पर्युपासते।
तेषां नित्याभियुक्तानां योगक्षेमं वहाम्यहम्॥

Saraswat Brahmins are a prominent community within the Brahmin caste, and they trace their origins to the ancient Sarasvati River region. Saraswat Brahmins are known for their involvement in various intellectual, educational, and cultural pursuits. This community has several sub-groups or gotras, each with its distinct lineage and traditions. Some notable sub-groups among the Saraswat Brahmins include:

1.Bhargava: This sub-group traces its lineage to the sage Bhrigu and is known for its association with the Bhargava Gotra.

2.Vashishtha: Saraswat Brahmins belonging to the Vashishtha gotra trace their ancestry to the sage Vashishtha.

3.Atri: The Atri gotra is associated with the sage Atri, and Saraswat Brahmins belonging to this sub-group take pride in their Atri lineage.

4.Kashyapa: Another significant gotra among the Saraswats, it is associated with the sage Kashyapa, contributing to the diversity of the community.

5.Koundinya: Saraswat Brahmins with the Koundinya gotra trace their origins to the sage Koundinya.

6.Harita: The Harita gotra is another sub-group with a specific lineage among the Saraswat Brahmins.

7.Jamadagni: Saraswat Brahmins belonging to the Jamadagni gotra trace their ancestry to the sage Jamadagni.

8.Vatsa: This gotra is associated with the Vatsa lineage, adding to the diverse heritage of the Saraswat community.

These sub-groups or gotras are integral to the social and genealogical identity of Saraswat Brahmins. Members of each gotra often share common rituals, traditions, and customs, reinforcing a sense of community and shared ancestry within the broader Saraswat Brahmin group.
5. Utkala Brahmin(उत्कल ब्राह्मण):- 

अनन्याश्चिन्तयन्तो मां ये जनाः पर्युपासते।
तेषां नित्याभियुक्तानां योगक्षेमं वहाम्यहम् 

Brahmins native to or residing in the former Utkala Kingdom are commonly referred to as Utkala Brahmins. In recent years, there has been a surge of attention towards the Utkal Rajya and Utkal Brahmins, stemming from the historical text Bhavishya Malika authored by the Pancha Sakha of the former Utkal kingdom, which is now known as Odisha. The prophecy within the Bhavishya Malika has propelled Utkal Rajya and the Utkal Brahmins into the limelight, sparking interest and curiosity from diverse quarters.

According to the Bhavishya Malika, it is stated that Lord Krishna, his brother Balarama, and along with other characters , were believed to have been born into a Utkala Brahmin family. Additionally, it is prophesied that Lord Krishna will be reborn as Lord Kalki, and his devotees will worship him as Kalki Ram.

Naam Hai tera Taran Hara

Utkala Brahmin🔗(उत्कल ब्राह्मण):

The Utkala Brahmins, also known as उत्कल ब्राह्मण, constitute a diverse group of Brahmins in India, primarily hailing from the Gangetic valley. Renowned for their commitment to preserving the sanctity and purity of Brahmanatva, they were brought to the Utkala Kingdom at various points in history by the ruling monarchs. Presently, Utkala Brahmins are prevalent in Odisha and its neighboring states such as West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Jharkhand, and other regions across India and abroad.

 Details about Pancha(five) Dravidian Brahmin:-

ॐ पद्मनाभाय नमः॥

''This devotional composition extols Padmanabha Swamy, who is reverently enshrined in the timeless yogic slumber, adopting the Ananta Sayana posture atop the divine serpent, Aadi Sesha.''🙏

There are five subgroups of Dravida Brahmins who live in the south of the Vindhya range or Vindyachal. They are as under.  
 1.Maharashtrian Brahmins:-

बुद्धियुक्तो जहातीह उभे सुकृतदुष्कृते।

 तस्माद्योगाय युज्यस्व योगः कर्मसु कौशलम् ॥

सर्वधर्मान्परित्यज्य मामेकं शरणं व्रज।
अहं त्वा सर्वपापेभ्यो मोक्षयिष्यामि मा शुचः।।

Maharashtrian Brahmins, also known as Chitpavan Brahmins, are a prominent Brahmin community in the state of Maharashtra, India. They have played significant roles in various fields such as administration, education, and social reform movements.

The main subgroup among Maharashtrian Brahmins is the Chitpavan Brahmins:

Chitpavan Brahmins: This subgroup is further divided into two main sects: Rigvedi and Yajurvedi. They trace their origin to the Chitpavan region in Konkan and are known for their contributions to Marathi literature, administration, and politics. 

Maharashtrian Brahmins, particularly the Chitpavans, have left an indelible mark on the cultural, social, and political landscape of Maharashtra, contributing significantly to the state's history and development.

 Brahmins collectively make up 9-10 percent of Maharashtra's population, with Deshastha Brahmins constituting nearly 60 percent, followed by Chitpavans, Saraswats, Karhades, and Devrukhes. This diverse Brahmin population has played a significant role in shaping the cultural, social, and historical landscape of Maharashtra.
Deshastha Brahmins:-

कर्मजं बुद्धियुक्ता हि फलं त्यक्त्वा मनीषिणः।
 जन्मबन्धविनिर्मुक्ताः पदं गच्छन्त्यनामयम् ॥

Deshastha Brahmins are a Hindu Brahmin subcaste primarily from the Indian state of Maharashtra and the northern area of the state of Karnataka. The term "Deshastha" is derived from Sanskrit, where "Desh" means inland or country, and "stha" means resident, translating to "residents of the country." Collectively, the valleys of the Krishna and Godavari rivers and a part of the Deccan plateau adjacent to the Sahyadri hills are referred to as the "Desh," which is considered the original home of the Deshastha Brahmins.

The Deshastha Brahmins have their own cultural practices, rituals, and traditions that have evolved over centuries. They hold a significant place in the cultural and religious fabric of the regions where they are prominent, contributing to the diversity of Brahminical traditions in India.

2.Telugu Brahmins.

यदा ते मोहकलिलं बुद्धिर्व्यतितरिष्यति।
 तदा गन्तासि निर्वेदं श्रोतव्यस्य श्रुतस्य च ॥

Telugu Brahmins are a community of Brahmins predominantly residing in the Telugu-speaking regions of India, particularly Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. They play a significant role in the cultural and intellectual traditions of the region. Known for their expertise in various fields such as arts, literature, and philosophy, Telugu Brahmins have historically been associated with practices that reflect their commitment to the preservation of cultural heritage. They contribute to the socio-religious fabric of the Telugu-speaking states and continue to be influential in diverse spheres of life. According to Aitareya Brahmins of the Rigveda, the Andhra Brahmins left North India from the banks of the river Yamuna and migrated to peninsular India

(South India). They are mentioned at the time of the death of the great Mauryan King Ashoka in 232 BC.

3. Dravida Brahmins

श्रुतिविप्रतिपन्ना ते यदा स्थास्यति निश्चला।

समाधावचला बुद्धिस्तदा योगमवाप्स्यसि ॥

वासांसि जीर्णानि यथा विहाय। नवानि गृह्णाति नरोऽपराणि।।
तथा शरीराणि विहाय जीर्णा। न्यन्यानि संयाति नवानि देही।। 

Dravida Brahmins primarily reside in the southern part of India, especially in the states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. They are characterized by their cultural practices, traditions, and regional influences. The main subgroups among Dravida Brahmins include:

Iyers: Iyers are a prominent subgroup of Tamil Brahmins, predominantly found in Tamil Nadu. They traditionally adhere to the Smartha tradition and follow the teachings of Adi Shankaracharya. Iyers are known for their emphasis on Vedic rituals, learning, and adherence to a vegetarian lifestyle.

Iyengars: Iyengars, also known as Sri Vaishnavas, are a sect of Tamil Brahmins who follow the teachings of Ramanuja, a prominent philosopher in the Bhakti movement. They are devoted to the worship of Lord Vishnu and are known for their distinctive customs, including the practice of the Vadakalai and Thenkalai sub-sects.

Namboothiris: Namboothiris are Malayali Brahmins from Kerala, following the Kerala tradition of Brahminism. They are associated with both Smartha and Bhagavatha traditions. Namboothiris have historically been scholars, priests, and custodians of Vedic knowledge in the region.

These subgroups contribute to the cultural and religious diversity within the broader category of Dravida Brahmins, each preserving distinct customs, rituals, and philosophical outlooks shaped by their historical and regional context. It is noteworthy to highlight that Brahmins from the southern  region of India, have historically played a significant role in preserving and propagating Vedic traditions, including chanting Vedic mantras, singing Vedic songs, and reciting slokas.

 
4. Kannada Brahmins 

दुःखेष्वनुद्विग्नमनाः सुखेषु विगतस्पृहः ।
 वीतरागभयक्रोधः स्थितधीर्मुनिरुच्यते ॥

Kannada Brahmins are a community of Brahmins primarily located in the Kannada-speaking regions of Karnataka, India. Known for their cultural and intellectual contributions, they play a vital role in the traditions of Karnataka. Engaged in various fields such as literature, arts, and education, Kannada Brahmins have historically been custodians of cultural heritage. Their influence extends to religious and social spheres, and they contribute significantly to the rich tapestry of Karnataka's heritage. 

Kannada Brahmins are divided into several subgroups, with three main sects being prominent: Madhva, Smartha, and Srivaishnava.

Madhva Brahmins: Followers of the Dvaita school of Vedanta founded by Madhvacharya, Madhva Brahmins adhere to the belief in the duality of the soul and the divine. They actively engage in the worship of Lord Vishnu and follow the teachings of Madhvacharya.

Smartha Brahmins: Smartha Brahmins are followers of the Advaita school of Vedanta, as propounded by Adi Shankaracharya. They believe in the ultimate oneness of the individual soul (Atman) with the universal consciousness (Brahman). Smarthas are known for their flexibility in deity worship, as they can worship different deities, considering them various manifestations of the ultimate reality.

Srivaishnava Brahmins: Srivaishnava Brahmins are devoted followers of the Sri Vaishnavism tradition, centered around the worship of Lord Vishnu, particularly in his form as Lord Venkateswara. They follow the teachings of Ramanuja, a prominent philosopher in the Bhakti movement, who emphasized the path of devotion (bhakti) to attain salvation.

These subgroups within Kannada Brahmins reflect diverse philosophical and religious orientations, contributing to the rich tapestry of traditions and practices within the broader Brahmin community in Karnataka.

5. Gujarati Brahmins:-

Gujarati Brahmins are a community of Brahmins native to the Indian state of Gujarat. They play a crucial role in the cultural, religious, and educational spheres of the region. The main subgroups among Gujarati Brahmins include:

Nagar Brahmins: Nagar Brahmins are one of the prominent subgroups among Gujarati Brahmins. They are known for their involvement in trade, business, and scholarly pursuits. Nagar Brahmins have historically contributed to the cultural and economic development of Gujarat.

Anavil Brahmins: Anavil Brahmins are another subgroup in Gujarat, primarily engaged in various professions, including priesthood, teaching, and business. They follow Vedic traditions and have made significant contributions to the religious and cultural heritage of the region.

Bhargava Brahmins: Bhargava Brahmins, also known as Bhatt Brahmins, are a subgroup found in Gujarat. They are associated with priestly duties, learning, and adherence to traditional rituals. Bhargava Brahmins have played a role in preserving and propagating Vedic knowledge.

These subgroups collectively contribute to the diversity and richness of the Brahmin community in Gujarat, each maintaining its distinct traditions, cultural practices, and historical significance.

Section & Sub-section of Brahmins.

Indeed, the Brahmin community, like many other social groups in India, is characterized by a hierarchical and segmented structure. Brahmins are traditionally divided into various subgroups, and these subgroups, in turn, can have further divisions into sections and sub-sections. The system of divisions is often based on factors such as region, Vedic Shakha (branch), gotra (clan), and specific duties or roles within the community.

This complex system of divisions helps define social and cultural identities within the Brahmin community, and it reflects the diversity and historical evolution of the Brahminical tradition in different regions of India. The subdivisions often come with specific rituals, practices, and roles within the community, contributing to the rich tapestry of India's cultural and social landscape.

Sanadya Brahmin(सनाढ्य ब्राम्हण):- 

यः सर्वत्रानभिस्नेहस्तत्तत्प्राप्य शुभाशुभम्।
नाभिनन्दति न द्वेष्टि तस्य प्रज्ञा प्रतिष्ठिता ॥

Sanadya Brahmins, also spelled as Sanaadhya or Sanadhya Brahmins, are a prominent Brahmin community in North India, particularly in the states of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and parts of Uttar Pradesh. The exact historical origins of the Sanadya Brahmins are not well-documented, but they are believed to have ancient Vedic roots. 

They are believed to have originated through the practice of penance (Tapasya) dedicated to Lord Brahma, and they are referred to as "Sanadhya Brahmins." This unique title was conferred upon them directly by Lord Rama himself due to their devout commitment to penance and spirituality. 

"Mere Ghar Ram Aye hain."

सनाढ्य का शाब्दिक अर्थ दो शब्दों से मिलकर बना है,सन्+आढय जिसका अर्थ सन् अर्थात तप और आढ्य अर्थात ब्रम्हा। ब्रम्हा के तप से उत्पन्न ब्राम्हण और तपस्या में रत रहने बाले अर्थात तपस्वी ब्राम्हण। ब्राह्मणों को सनाढ्य की उपाधी, स्वयं भगवान श्री राम द्वारा दी गई थी। Their main concentration is in Western Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh area of India.

Saryuparin  Brahmins(सरयूपारीण ब्राह्मण) :-

यततो ह्यपि कौन्तेय पुरूषस्य विपश्चितः।
इन्द्रियाणि प्रमाथीनि हरन्ति प्रसभं मनः ॥

Saryuparin Brahmins, also known as Sarayupareen or Saryupareeni Brahmins, are a prominent subgroup of Brahmins in India. They derive their name from the region around the Sarayu River, primarily in the northern parts of the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Here's an overview of Saryuparin Brahmins:

1. Geographical Origin:

Saryuparin Brahmins trace their roots to the Sarayu River region, which includes areas in present-day Uttar Pradesh, especially in the eastern and northern parts of the state. Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama, is a significant cultural and religious center for Saryuparin Brahmins.

2. Vedic Traditions:

Saryuparin Brahmins are known for their strong adherence to Vedic traditions and rituals. They have historically played a crucial role in performing religious ceremonies and rituals in the region.

3. Cultural Significance:

The Saryuparin Brahmins have a rich cultural heritage deeply connected to their religious practices. They have contributed to the preservation and promotion of classical Indian music, dance, literature, and art.

4. Educational Pursuits:

Education holds a prominent place among Saryuparin Brahmins, and many have excelled in various fields of knowledge, including philosophy, mathematics, astrology, and linguistics.

5. Occupation:

Traditionally, Saryuparin Brahmins have been involved in priestly activities, serving as priests in temples and performing religious ceremonies. Some have also pursued careers in education, administration, and other professions.

6. Rituals and Festivals:

They actively participate in Hindu festivals and ceremonies, including Diwali, Holi, and various puja rituals. Ayodhya, their cultural epicenter, sees grand celebrations during festivals like Ram Navami.

7. Marriage and Social Customs:

Saryuparin Brahmins follow specific marriage and social customs that are in line with Vedic traditions. Arranged marriages are common within the community, and rituals play a significant role in the marriage ceremony.

8. Contributions to Society:

Many notable figures from the Saryuparin Brahmin community have made significant contributions to Indian society in various fields, including politics, literature, and spirituality.

9. Diaspora:

Saryuparin Brahmins have also migrated to different parts of India and other countries, contributing to the global Indian diaspora while preserving their cultural and religious heritage.

Saryuparin Brahmins are an essential part of the diverse tapestry of Brahmin communities in India, and they continue to play a vital role in preserving and promoting the rich cultural and religious traditions of the Sarayu River region.

Origin of Saryuparin  Brahmins:-

तानि सर्वाणि संयम्य युक्त आसीत मत्परः।
वशे हि यस्येन्द्रियाणि तस्य प्रज्ञा प्रतिष्ठिता ॥

The origin story of Saryuparin Brahmins is rooted in the epic Ramayana, specifically during the time when Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana. During this period, a significant event occurred where Lord Rama was believed to have committed the grave sin of Brahma-hatya, the killing of a Brahmin. This act was considered highly sinful in Hindu tradition.

In response to this, many Brahmins in Ayodhya assisted Lord Rama in performing rituals to expiate the sin and cleanse his soul. However, not all Brahmins were willing to participate in these rituals. Some Brahmins refused to be involved, while others actively took part in the process, despite the potential consequences they might face.

The Brahmins who chose to participate in the rituals faced rejection and condemnation from their families and society. As a form of punishment, they were exiled and sent to live on the other side of the Saryu River. It is from this historical incident that they came to be known as "Saryuparin" or "Saryu Ke Paar," signifying their location across the Saryu River.

The unique aspect of Saryuparin Brahmins is that they typically do not engage in traditional pujas (ritual worship), nor do they accept Dakshina (donations). Instead, their focus has traditionally been on the pursuit of knowledge, particularly the study of the Vedas, and the dissemination of this knowledge to others.

In essence, the Saryuparin Brahmins have a distinctive historical and cultural background, rooted in their involvement in the purification rituals for Lord Rama and their subsequent exile across the Saryu River. This history has shaped their religious practices and emphasis on intellectual pursuits and knowledge dissemination.

Maryada Purushottam Lord Ram

Jujhautiya Brahmin(जिझौतिया ब्राह्मण) :-

क्रोधाद्भवति सम्मोहः सम्मोहात्स्मृतिविभ्रमः।
स्मृतिभ्रंशाद् बुद्धिनाशो बुद्धिनाशात्प्रणश्यति ॥

The Jujhautiya Brahmin community, sometimes spelled as Jijhotia, Jajautia, or Jujautia, is an endogamous group of Brahmins primarily located in the Chambal and Yamuna river valleys to the north and the Narmada valley to the south. Their cultural and demographic heartland is in the Chhatarpur District of Madhya Pradesh. The name "Jujhautiya" was adopted when a segment of this Brahmin community conducted a yajna (sacred ritual) in honor of Jhujhar Singh, the Bundela Raja.

In Uttar Pradesh, Jujhautiya Brahmins are predominantly concentrated in districts like Hamirpur, Jhansi, and Banda.
Havyaka Brahmins:-

ध्यायतो विषयान्पुंसः सङ्गस्तेषूपजायते ।
सङ्गत्सञ्जायते कामः कामात्क्रोधोऽभिजायते ॥

Havyaka Brahmins, also known as Havyakas, are a distinct community of Brahmins primarily found in the Indian state of Karnataka, with a significant presence in the coastal and Malnad regions of the state. They have a unique cultural and social identity, characterized by their specific customs, traditions, and dialect, known as "Havyaka Kannada."

Here are some key aspects of Havyaka Brahmins:

Cultural and Linguistic Identity: Havyakas have a strong cultural and linguistic identity. They speak a dialect known as Havyaka Kannada, which is distinctive from the standard Kannada spoken in Karnataka. This dialect reflects their heritage and is an integral part of their cultural heritage.

Cuisine: Havyaka cuisine is renowned for its unique and delicious vegetarian dishes. They are known for their culinary skills and the use of traditional ingredients and cooking methods. Rice-based dishes, coconut, and various spices play a significant role in Havyaka cuisine.

Religious Practices: Havyaka Brahmins follow Hinduism as their primary religion. They actively participate in temple rituals and religious ceremonies, maintaining a strong connection to their religious heritage.

Occupation: Historically, Havyaka Brahmins were associated with priesthood and religious duties. However, in contemporary times, many Havyakas have diversified their occupations and are engaged in various professions, including education, government jobs, and business.

Festivals: Havyakas celebrate all major Hindu festivals with great fervor, including Diwali, Navaratri, and Ugadi. They also have unique regional festivals and rituals that are specific to their community.

Education and Literacy: Havyakas place a strong emphasis on education, and many members of the community have excelled in academics and professional fields. They have contributed significantly to the fields of science, arts, and literature.

Marriage and Social Structure: Like many Brahmin communities, Havyakas traditionally practice arranged marriages. Their social structure is organized into clans or "gotras," and these play a role in marriage alliances and community cohesion.

Community Welfare: Havyaka Brahmins have established social and cultural organizations to promote their heritage, language, and traditions. These organizations often work to uplift the community and preserve their cultural identity.

Havyaka Brahmins have a rich cultural heritage, a strong sense of community, and have made significant contributions to the cultural, educational, and social fabric of Karnataka. They continue to play a vital role in the state's diverse cultural landscape.

Havyaka Brahmins, also known as Haveeka, Havika, Haiga, and Haveega, belong to the category of Pancha Dravida Brahmins in India. They are primarily concentrated in the state of Karnataka and are seldom found in other regions of India and abroad. The Havyakas predominantly adhere to the Advaita philosophy, as espoused by the renowned philosopher Adi Shankaracharya.

Most Havyaka Brahmins can trace their immediate ancestral roots to the districts of Dakshin Kannada, Uttar Kannada, Shimoga in Karnataka, and the Kasaragod district of Kerala.
Naramdev Brahmins(नार्मदीय ब्राह्मण) :-

रागद्वेषवियुक्तैस्तु विषयानिन्द्रियैश्चरन्।
आत्मवश्यैर्विधेयात्मा प्रसादमधिगच्छति ॥

Naramdev Brahmins, also transliterated as Naramdiya, are descendants of the priests of the Somnath temple who were forced to migrate from Gujarat to Madhya Pradesh are settled along the bank of the Narmada River. Their migration owes to the forays and desecration of the Somnath temple by Mahmud Ghazni.  
Mohyal  Brahmins( मोहयाल ब्राह्मण):-

प्रसादे सर्वदुःखानां हानिरस्योपजायते।
प्रसन्नचेतसो ह्याशु बुद्धिः पर्यवतिष्ठते ॥

Mohyal Brahmins are a distinct group within the Brahmin community, known for their unique cultural and historical background. They are primarily found in the northern regions of India, particularly in the states of Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh. The term "Mohyal" is derived from the Sanskrit words "Moha," meaning warrior, and "Yala," meaning support or sustainer. This reflects the historical role of the Mohyals as warrior Brahmins.

Key features and aspects of Mohyal Brahmins include:

Warrior Tradition: Mohyal Brahmins have a historical reputation for being a martial community, traditionally associated with military and defense roles. They are known for their valor and contributions to the defense of their regions.

Clans: Mohyals are organized into various clans, each associated with a specific gotra (lineage). Some of the prominent clans among Mohyal Brahmins include Bali, Vats, Datt, Bhardwaj, and others.

Religious Practices: Like other Brahmin communities, Mohyals are followers of Hinduism and adhere to Vedic traditions. They actively participate in religious rituals, ceremonies, and festivals.

Distinctive Surnames: Mohyal Brahmins often have distinct surnames that set them apart from other Brahmin communities. These surnames are reflective of their lineage and ancestral roots.

Occupations: While historically associated with martial roles, Mohyals are also engaged in various professions, including education, administration, and business, in contemporary times.

Migration: Over the years, some Mohyal Brahmin families have migrated to different parts of India and other countries, contributing to the dispersion of their community.

Cultural Contributions: Mohyal Brahmins have made notable contributions to literature, philosophy, and other intellectual pursuits. They have produced scholars and thinkers who have enriched the cultural and intellectual landscape of India.

It's important to note that the information provided here is a general overview, and there may be variations and nuances within the Mohyal Brahmin community. The cultural and social aspects of any community can evolve over time, and individuals within the community may have diverse experiences and practices.

राष्ट्र रक्षा समं पुण्यं,राष्ट्र रक्षा समं व्रतम्,

राष्ट्र रक्षा समं यज्ञो,दृष्टो नैव च नैव च।

"राष्ट्र रक्षा के समान कोई पुण्य नहीं,

राष्ट्र रक्षा के समान कोई व्रत नहीं,

राष्ट्र रक्षा के समान कोई यज्ञ नहीं, ऐसा कहीं देखा नहीं गया है।"

Dharukra Brahmins:-
Dharukras is a subsection of Gaur Brahmins of the Delhi Territory. 
Jangid Brahmins(जांगिड़ ब्राह्मण):-

नास्ति बुद्धिरयुक्तस्य न चायुक्तस्य भावना।
न चाभावयतः शान्तिरशान्तस्य कुतः सुखम् ॥

Jangid Brahmins, also known as Jangir Brahmins or Jangra Brahmins, are a community within the broader Brahmin caste in India. The Jangid Brahmins are traditionally associated with craftsmanship, particularly in the field of carpentry and architecture. Here are some key aspects of the Jangid Brahmin community:

Occupational Specialization: The Jangid Brahmins have a strong historical association with craftsmanship, especially in carpentry and related skills. They are known for their expertise in constructing wooden structures, including temples, palaces, and other architectural marvels.

Architectural Contributions: Jangid Brahmins have played a significant role in the construction and maintenance of temples and other religious structures in various parts of India. Their craftsmanship is often characterized by intricate woodwork and attention to detail.

Gotra System: Like many other Brahmin communities, the Jangid Brahmins follow the gotra system, which determines their lineage and ancestry. Each gotra is associated with a particular sage or Rishi.

Religious Practices: Jangid Brahmins, being Brahmins, follow Hinduism and adhere to Vedic traditions. They actively participate in religious ceremonies, rituals, and festivals.

Geographical Distribution: The Jangid Brahmins are found in different parts of India, with significant populations in states like Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. Over time, some Jangid Brahmin families may have migrated to other regions.

Social Structure: The Jangid Brahmin community, like other Brahmin communities, has a hierarchical social structure. They may be further divided into sub-groups based on regional, cultural, or occupational factors.

Evolution of the Community: While traditionally associated with carpentry, the Jangid Brahmin community has adapted to changing times. Today, members of this community may be engaged in various professions, including education, business, and other modern occupations.

Cultural Practices: Jangid Brahmins have their own cultural practices and traditions, which may include specific rituals, customs, and social gatherings that help bind the community together.

It's essential to recognize that the information provided here is a general overview, and variations may exist within the Jangid Brahmin community. Like any other community, the Jangid Brahmins have a rich and diverse history, and individuals within the community may have unique experiences and practices.

Dhusar, Dhasia or Dhosiwala Brahmins:-

The group of Bhargava Gotri Gaur Brahmins known as Dhusar, Dhasia, or Dhosiwala (धूसर, ढसिया अथवा ढोसीवाला) has its members originating from the Dhosi Hill area. The term "Dhosi" likely refers to a geographical location, and the community takes its name from this specific region.

Cultural and regional factors often play a significant role in naming Brahmin groups, and the connection to Dhosi Hill suggests a geographic or historical association that has shaped the identity of the Dhusar, Dhasia, or Dhosiwala Brahmins. The members of this community may share cultural practices, traditions, and historical narratives associated with their origin in the Dhosi Hill area.
Maha Brahmin:-

इन्द्रियाणां हि चरतां यन्मनोऽनुविधीयते।
तदस्य हरति प्रज्ञां वायु वमिवाम्भसि ॥

The Maha Brahmins, also known as Acharya and Kattaha Brahmins, have a significant role as traditional funeral priests in North India. They are found in various states, including Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, and Bihar.

It's interesting to note the paradox within the Maha Brahmin community. While they play a crucial role in performing funeral rites, their occupation has, at times, led to societal stigma or discrimination. In some regions like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and others, they are known as Mahapatras, and the terms Maha Brahmins and Mahapatras are used interchangeably. In Haryana, they are referred to as Bura Brahmin.

The roles and perceptions of different Brahmin communities can vary based on regional traditions and social norms. Despite potential stigmas, the Maha Brahmins continue to fulfill important religious functions in their communities.

Nath Brahmins(नाथ ब्राह्मण):-

Nath Brahmins, also known as Natha Brahmins or Nath Sampradaya, are a distinct sect within the broader Brahmin community in India. They are known for their association with the Natha tradition, which is a sect of Hinduism that emphasizes the teachings of Lord Shiva and has a strong focus on yoga, meditation, and ascetic practices. Here's an overview of Nath Brahmins both in India and abroad:

In India:

Historical Background: The Nath Brahmins have a long and rich history dating back to ancient India. They played a significant role in the development and propagation of the Natha tradition, which was founded by Matsyendranath and further popularized by Gorakhnath.

Spiritual Practices: Nath Brahmins are known for their dedication to spiritual practices, particularly yoga and meditation. They often serve as gurus (spiritual teachers) and impart their knowledge of these practices to their disciples.

Traditional Occupations: Historically, Nath Brahmins have been involved in various occupations, including priesthood, teaching, and scholarly pursuits. Some Nath Brahmins have also been known to lead ascetic lives.

Geographical Distribution: Nath Brahmins can be found in different regions of India, with a notable presence in states like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra.

Abroad:

1.Diaspora Communities: In countries with Indian diaspora populations, you may find Nath Brahmins who have migrated or settled abroad. They often continue their cultural and religious practices in these new environments.

2.Yoga and Spiritual Teachings: The Natha tradition's emphasis on yoga and spirituality has gained popularity worldwide. As a result, some Nath Brahmins may travel abroad to teach yoga and meditation, contributing to the global spread of these practices.

3.Cultural Exchange: Nath Brahmins, like other Indian communities, participate in cultural exchanges and events that promote Indian traditions, including yoga and meditation workshops, festivals, and seminars.

4.Interfaith Dialogues: In some cases, Nath Brahmins may engage in interfaith dialogues and discussions on spirituality and yoga with people from different religious backgrounds.

While Nath Brahmins have a strong presence in India due to their historical and cultural roots, their teachings and practices have also resonated with people from diverse backgrounds around the world, contributing to the global awareness and appreciation of the Natha tradition and its spiritual wisdom.

या निशा सर्वभूतानां तस्यां जागर्ति संयमी।
यस्यां जाग्रति भूतानि सा निशा पश्यतो मुनेः ॥

Bengali Brahmins:-

Bengali Brahmins are a distinct group of Brahmins who hail from the eastern Indian state of West Bengal and the neighboring region of Bangladesh. They are an integral part of the broader Brahmin community in India, known for their unique cultural, religious, and culinary traditions. Here's an overview of Bengali Brahmins:

1. Historical Significance:

Bengali Brahmins have a rich historical and cultural heritage that spans centuries. They have played a significant role in shaping the religious and intellectual landscape of Bengal.

2. Brahminical Lineages:

Within the Bengali Brahmin community, there are several subgroups and lineages, each with its own distinct practices and rituals. Some prominent subgroups include Rarhi, Varendra, and Kulin Brahmins.

3. Religious Traditions:

Bengali Brahmins are deeply rooted in Hinduism and have a strong influence on religious practices in the region. They serve as priests in temples, perform religious ceremonies, and are well-versed in the scriptures.

4. Cultural Contributions:

Bengali Brahmins have made significant contributions to Bengali culture and literature. Many renowned poets, scholars, and philosophers from this community have enriched Bengali literature with their works.

5. Cuisine:

Bengali Brahmins are known for their delectable cuisine, which includes a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Iconic dishes like "shorshe ilish" (hilsa fish in mustard sauce) and "sandesh" (a sweet made from paneer or chhena) are popular in Bengali cuisine.

6. Festivals and Celebrations:

Bengali Brahmins enthusiastically celebrate traditional festivals such as Durga Puja, Saraswati Puja, and Kali Puja. These festivals are marked by elaborate rituals, cultural performances, and feasting.

7. Education and Scholarship:

Historically, Bengali Brahmins have been known for their emphasis on education and scholarship. They have produced numerous scholars, writers, and intellectuals who have made notable contributions to various fields.

8. Diaspora:

Like other Indian communities, Bengali Brahmins have a diaspora spread across the world. They have carried their cultural traditions, including religious practices and cuisine, to different parts of the globe.

9. Modern Outlook:

In contemporary times, many Bengali Brahmins have adapted to modern lifestyles and careers, with members of the community excelling in various fields such as science, technology, arts, and business.

Bengali Brahmins, with their deep-rooted traditions and cultural significance, continue to play a vital role in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the Bengal region, while also embracing the opportunities and challenges of the modern world.

The Bengali Brahmins, belonging to the Pancha Gauda Brahmin category, have a historical presence in the Bengal region of the Indian subcontinent, which includes present-day Bangladesh and the Indian state of West Bengal. Various Brahmin communities in Bengal have their own traditional accounts of origin documented in genealogical texts called kulagranthas or kulapanjikas. Traditionally, Bengali Brahmins are categorized as follows:

Rādhi Brahmins: These Brahmins originate from the Radh region, located to the southwest of the Ganges River.

Varendra Brahmins: Varendra Brahmins are associated with the Vārendra region, situated in the northeastern part of Bengal. This region corresponds to the erstwhile Puṇḍra kingdom. The areas covered by the former Pundra Kingdom are currently part of the Rangpur and Rajshahi Divisions in Bangladesh, which include districts such as Bogra, Rajshahi, Pabna, and Dinajpur, as well as West Dinajpur in India.

Vaidika Brahmins (migrants, originally experts of Vedic knowledge):

a. Paschatya Vaidika: These are Vedic Brahmins who migrated to Bengal from the western regions.

b. Dakshinatya Vaidika: This category comprises Vedic Brahmins who migrated to Bengal from the southern regions.

Saptaśati Brahmins: These Brahmins belong to the Saptaśati category.

These distinct categories of Bengali Brahmins have contributed significantly to the cultural, religious, and intellectual heritage of the Bengal region, each with its unique historical and regional associations.

Kulin Brahmins of Bengal (कुलीन ब्राह्मण):-

आपूर्यमाणमचलप्रतिष्ठं समुद्रमापः प्रविशन्ति यद्वत् ।
 तद्वत्कामा यं प्रविशन्ति सर्वे स शान्तिमाजोति न कामकामी ॥

Kulin Brahmins in Bengal:-

The Kulin Brahmins form a relatively small subset within the Bengali Brahmin community, adhering to the Hindu religion. They trace their origins to four families from Kannauj in North India who migrated to Bengal. According to T.R. Trautmann, Kulinas hold the highest social status among the Brahmins and Kayasthas in Bengal.

Historical Background:

In the history of Kulin Brahmins, there is a notable account involving a king of Bengal who requested the king of Kanauj to send him five learned Brahmins proficient in Vedic rituals and sacrifices (यज्ञ). However, the king of Kanauj initially declined this request. In response, the king of Bengal sent 700 Brahmins from Bengal to confront the king of Kanauj, accompanied by bulls. The king of Bengal knew that the king of Kanauj would not engage in warfare against Brahmins, especially when bulls were involved. As anticipated, the king of Kanauj abstained from conflict and eventually sent the five highly learned Brahmins (named Rakshitis, Medhatithi, Baitarag, Sudhanidhi, and Sambhari) to Bengal.

In Bengal, these five Brahmins conducted a sacred sacrifice and then returned to Kanauj. However, upon their return, they were ostracized and asked to undergo penance by their own relatives. Faced with this predicament, they left Kanauj and sought refuge in Bengal. The king of Bengal granted them five villages to settle in. Each of these Brahmins belonged to a different gotra (Shandilya, Bharadwaj, Kashyap, Vatsya, and Saavarna). Present-day Rarhi and Varendra Brahmins are believed to be the descendants of these five families. (Rarh and Varendra are geographical regions located in present-day West Bengal and Bangladesh, respectively.)

These Brahmins came to be known as Kulin Brahmins, signifying their noble or high-status origin. The 700 Brahmin warriors who accompanied them later became known as Saptasati Brahmins.

This historical account reflects the unique social and cultural history of the Kulin Brahmins, highlighting their migration, the establishment of their noble lineage, and their significant presence in Bengal.

Rudraj Brahmins:-

The Brahmin community whose ancestors was Yogi(योगी) are recognized by Bangiya Brahmin Samaj as "Rudraj Brahmins. They are mostly found in West Bengal, Assam, and rarely found in other parts of India and (Bangladesh and other countries) abroad. They are also called Nath Brahmins.
Gaud Saraswat Brahmins:- 

विहाय कामान्यः सर्वान्पुमांश्चरति निःस्पृहः
निर्ममो निरहङ्कारः स शान्तिमधिगच्छति ॥

Following the creation of the Konkan coast by Lord Parshuram, the ruler of this coastal region extended invitations to Brahmins from various locations to establish themselves in Konkan. Among those who arrived during this period were the Saraswat Brahmins, who later became known as Gaud Saraswat Brahmins (GSB).

Gaud Saraswat Brahmins, often referred to as GSBs, are a prominent and culturally rich Brahmin community primarily found along the west coast of India, particularly in the states of Goa, coastal Karnataka, and coastal Maharashtra. They have a distinct cultural identity and a rich heritage, deeply rooted in their customs, traditions, and religious practices.

Here are some key aspects of Gaud Saraswat Brahmins:

Geographical Distribution: Gaud Saraswat Brahmins have historically settled in the coastal regions of western India, with a significant presence in Goa, coastal Karnataka (like Mangalore and Udupi), and coastal Maharashtra (particularly Konkan). They are known for their close association with the coastal way of life.

Language: The primary language spoken by Gaud Saraswat Brahmins is Konkani, particularly the dialect known as "Konkani Saraswat." Konkani Saraswat is a vital part of their cultural heritage, and many of their rituals and social interactions are conducted in this language.

Religious Beliefs: Like most Brahmin communities, Gaud Saraswat Brahmins predominantly follow Hinduism. They adhere to various sects and traditions within Hinduism and actively participate in temple rituals, religious ceremonies, and festivals. Their devotion to deities like Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva is prominent.

Cuisine: GSB cuisine is well-known for its distinctive flavors and use of coconut, rice, and spices. Seafood is a significant part of their diet due to their coastal location. Traditional GSB dishes, rice preparations, and a variety of vegetarian curries, are renowned for their unique taste.

Marriage and Social Structure: Gaud Saraswat Brahmins practice arranged marriages and maintain a strong social structure organized into clans or "gotras." These clans play a significant role in determining marriage alliances and preserving community ties.

Education and Professions: GSBs have a strong tradition of valuing education and have excelled in various fields, including academia, literature, and professional careers. Many members of the community have made significant contributions to these domains.

Festivals and Cultural Celebrations: GSBs celebrate Hindu festivals with great enthusiasm and have their own unique cultural festivals. Navaratri and Ganesh Chaturthi are celebrated with special fervor and grandeur in GSB households.

Community Welfare: Gaud Saraswat Brahmins have established social and cultural organizations to promote their heritage, language, and traditions. These organizations often work to uplift the community, support charitable activities, and preserve their cultural identity.

The Gaud Saraswat Brahmins have a rich and vibrant cultural heritage, and their presence has enriched the diverse tapestry of the western coastal regions of India. They continue to play a pivotal role in preserving their traditions, contributing to society, and passing on their cultural legacy to future generations.

Shrimali Brahmins(श्रीमाली ब्राह्मण) :-

एषा ब्राह्मी स्थितिः पार्थ नैनां प्राप्य विमुह्यति ।
 स्थित्वास्यामन्तकालेऽपि ब्रह्मनिर्वाणमृच्छति ॥

Shrimali Brahmins, also known as Shrimali Brahman or Shrimali Vaniya Brahmins, are a sub-group of Brahmins primarily associated with the business and trading communities in India. Here are some key points about Shrimali Brahmins:

Occupational Background: Unlike some other Brahmin groups that traditionally engage in priestly or scholarly activities, Shrimali Brahmins are known for their involvement in trade and business. They have historically played a prominent role in commerce and have been associated with various business communities.

Business and Trading Community: Shrimali Brahmins have been active in trading activities, including finance, commerce, and business. They often engage in professions related to finance, such as money lending, banking, and other commercial enterprises.

Cultural Practices: While maintaining their Brahmin identity, Shrimali Brahmins also adhere to cultural practices associated with their business and trading background. These practices may include specific rituals, festivals, and customs that reflect their unique combination of Brahminical and mercantile influences.

Geographical Presence: The Shrimali Brahmin community is found in various parts of India, with a notable presence in regions where trade and commerce historically flourished. Their influence is particularly strong in areas associated with business and economic activities.

Religious Practices: While the primary focus of Shrimali Brahmins may be on business and trade, they often continue to participate in and contribute to religious activities. They may engage in rituals, ceremonies, and worship as part of their cultural and religious practices.

It's important to note that the cultural and occupational characteristics of Brahmin communities can vary significantly across regions and sub-groups. The information provided here offers a general overview of Shrimali Brahmins, but individual experiences and practices within the community may differ. Additionally, societal changes and modernization have influenced the roles and occupations of various Brahmin groups over time.

*Shrimali Brahmins are believed to have originated from Srimal (the present-day Bhinmal) in the Jalore district in India. Due to several reasons, people living there were forced to migrate. Most of them started migrating towards Gujarat and Marwar (Rajasthan). Therefore, most of the Shrimali Brahmins presently residing in Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh.

न कर्मणामनारम्भान्नैष्कर्म्यं पुरुषोऽश्नुते ।
 न च संन्यसनादेव सिद्धिं समधिगच्छति ॥

Chhobisa Brahmins(चौबीसा ब्राह्मण):-

The Chhobisa Brahmins are a subgroup of Pancha Dravid Brahmins in India. Known for their honesty, piety, and nobility, they place significant emphasis on the service of God and temple worship. Some Chhobisa Brahmins also serve as priests and chief priests of the Maharana of Udaipur in the state of Rajasthan.

Primarily located in the Dungarpur and Mewar regions of south-central Rajasthan, their presence extends to districts such as Bhilwara, Chittorgarh, Pratapgarh, Rajsamand, Udaipur, Pirawa Tehsil of Jhalawar District (Rajasthan), Neemuch, Mandsaur in Madhya Pradesh, and some parts of Gujarat.

The Chhobisa Brahmins' role in religious service and their connection to the Maharana of Udaipur reflects their cultural and historical significance within the broader Brahmin community in the region.

न हि कश्चित्क्षणमपि जातु तिष्ठत्यकर्मकृत् ।
 कार्यते ह्यवशः कर्म सर्वः प्रकृतिजैर्गुणैः ॥

Paliwal Brahmins(पालीवाल ब्राह्मण):-

Paliwal Brahmins are a sub-group within the broader Brahmin community in India. The Paliwal Brahmins are known for their historical association with the town of Pali, located in the Marwar region of Rajasthan. Here are some key points about Paliwal Brahmins:

Geographical Origin: Paliwal Brahmins derive their name from the town of Pali in Rajasthan, India. This town, situated in the Marwar region, has been historically significant for trade and commerce.

Occupational Background: Like many Brahmin communities, Paliwal Brahmins have been involved in various professions, including education, priesthood, and scholarly pursuits. However, they are also known for their association with trade and business activities.

Cultural Practices: Paliwal Brahmins, while adhering to broader Brahminical cultural practices, may have specific customs and traditions that distinguish them from other Brahmin groups. These practices could include rituals, festivals, and social ceremonies unique to their community.

Historical Significance: The historical context of Paliwal Brahmins is often linked to the town of Pali and its economic and cultural landscape. Their engagement in trade and commerce might have influenced their social and cultural characteristics.

Geographical Spread: While the community's roots are in the Marwar region of Rajasthan, members of the Paliwal Brahmin community may be found in various parts of India and even abroad due to migration and settlement patterns.

 They are honest, pious, and noble Brahmins. According to an unconfirmed source of information ''It is said that Paliwal Brahmins are the descendants of Maharaj Haridas. who was a royal priest of Goddes Rukmani".

Pushkarna Brahmins ( पुष्करणा ब्राह्मण):-

कर्मेन्द्रियाणि संयम्य य आस्ते मनसा स्मरन्।
इन्द्रियान्विमूढात्मा मिथ्याचारः स उच्यते ॥

The Pushkarana Brahmins are a Brahmin community in India with historical roots in Sindh (now in Pakistan) and Persia (Iran). The community initially migrated to Pokhran in the Indian state of Rajasthan. The name "Pushkarana" is derived from the Sanskrit word "Pustikar."

It is also noted that the Pushkarna Brahmins may have taken their name from the sacred lake of Pushkar or Pokhar near Ajmer. The connection to a sacred site like Pushkar reflects the cultural and religious significance that often influences the naming conventions of Brahmin communities.

The migration and settlement patterns of the Pushkarana Brahmins have likely shaped their distinct cultural practices, traditions, and contributions to the regions where they reside.
Sikhwal Brahmin(also known as Sukhwal, Shringi):- 

The Sikhwal Brahmins, also known as Sukhwal or Shringi, are a prominent sect among Rajasthani Brahmins who trace their origin to the great sage Rishi Shringi (or Rishi Shring). The term "Sikhwal" likely reflects their association with the sage and may signify a specific lineage or community within the broader category of Rajasthani Brahmins.

Sage Rishi Shringi is a revered figure in Hindu mythology, and communities that trace their lineage to such sages often have distinct cultural practices and traditions associated with their ancestral roots. The Sikhwal Brahmins, with their connection to Rishi Shringi, likely have a unique cultural and religious identity within the larger Brahmin community in Rajasthan.
Khandelwal Brahmin ( खण्डेलवाल ब्राह्मण):-

यस्त्विन्द्रियाणि मनसा नियम्यारभतेऽर्जुन।
 कर्मेन्द्रियैः कर्मयोगमसक्तः स विशिष्यते ॥

Khandelwal Brahmins are a sub-group within the broader Brahmin community in India. Here are some key points about Khandelwal Brahmins:

Geographical Origin: Khandelwal Brahmins derive their name from the town of Khandela, located in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, India. The town has historical significance and is associated with trade and commerce.

Occupational Background: While maintaining their Brahmin identity, Khandelwal Brahmins are known for their involvement in business and trade. They have historically played a significant role in commerce, finance, and various entrepreneurial activities.

Cultural Practices: Khandelwal Brahmins, like other Brahmin communities, adhere to broader Brahminical cultural practices. However, due to their strong association with business and trade, they may have specific customs, rituals, and traditions that reflect their unique identity.

Historical Significance: The historical context of Khandelwal Brahmins is often tied to the town of Khandela and its economic landscape. Their engagement in trade has likely influenced their social and cultural characteristics over time.

Geographical Spread: While the community's roots are in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, members of the Khandelwal Brahmin community can be found in various parts of India and even abroad, reflecting migration and settlement patterns.

Origin of Khandelwal Brahmin.
Rishi Madhuchhandha (also known as Madhushchandhas Vaishvamitra) was a legendary sage mentioned in the Indian epics. A number of hymns in the Rigveda are composed by him. He is the son of legendary sage Brahmarshi Vishvamitra. Rishi Madhuchhandha along with his brother (मधुछन्दादि) accepted the pieces (Khand) gold altar of Yagna (यज्ञ)from God Parashuram due to this the name of the Rishis became Khandal. The descendants of these Rishis become famous in the name of Kandalavipra (खाण्डलविप्र) or Khandelwal Brahmin (खण्डेलवाल ब्राह्मण). They are mainly found in (northern) Rajasthan and its neighboring states and rarely found in the other state of India and abroad.
Nagar Brahmins(नागर ब्राह्मण):-

नियतं कुरु कर्म त्वं कर्म ज्यायो ह्यकर्मणः।
शरीरयात्रापि च ते न प्रसिद्धयेदकर्मणः ॥

The Nagar Brahmins are a Brahmin community primarily found in Gujarat, with additional presence in regions such as Rajasthan, Malwa, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh. Nagars are considered to be one of the oldest Brahmin groups, indicating a deep-rooted historical and cultural heritage.

Narsinh Mehta, was a 15th-century poet-saint 

of Gujarat, India, honored as the first poet,

 or Adi Kavi, of the Gujarati language.

The Nagar Brahmins likely have distinctive traditions, practices, and contributions to the cultural and religious landscape of the regions where they reside. As one of the oldest Brahmin groups, they may have played significant roles in the spheres of education, priesthood, and cultural preservation over the course of their history.

Raval Brahmins (रावल ब्राह्मण):-

इष्टान्भोगान्हि वो देवा दास्यन्ते यज्ञभाविताः ।
तैर्दत्तानप्रदायैभ्यो यो भुतस्तेन एव सः ॥

The Raval community consists of Brahmins residing in the Sirohi, Pali, and Jalore districts of Rajasthan. "Raval" is a title conferred upon Brahmins who were considered the best priests, highlighting their proficiency in performing religious rites and ceremonies. The title reflects their role as esteemed and knowledgeable priests within their community.

The Raval community is also known by alternate names such as Rawal, Bhandari, Ravalia, Rawalia, Rubela, and Tapodhan Brahmin. These names may denote specific branches or subgroups within the broader Raval community, each possibly having its own historical or cultural significance.

Overall, the Raval Brahmins have likely played a crucial role in the religious and cultural life of the regions where they are present, particularly in the context of their priestly duties and responsibilities.

Audichya Brahmins (औदीच्य ब्राह्मण):-

सक्ताः कर्मण्यविद्वांसो यथा कुर्वन्ति भारत।
कुर्याद्विद्वांस्तथासक्तश्चिकीर्षुर्लोकसंग्रहम् ॥

The Audichya Brahmins have a historical origin linked to a king in the western Indian state of Gujarat. This king, seeking assistance in ruling his kingdom, invited Brahmins from the northern regions. The term "Audichya" itself means the northern person, indicating the geographical origin of these Brahmins.

Over 1000 Brahmin families from the north accepted the king's invitation, and they came to be known as Audichya Brahmins. These Brahmins, also recognized by alternate names such as Astasahasram Brahmin, Barad, Bavisa, Bhavsargar, Ennayirattar, Smartha Brahmin, and others, have maintained a distinct identity within the cultural and religious landscape of Gujarat.

The historical context of their migration and settlement has shaped the traditions, practices, and contributions of Audichya Brahmins to the regions where they are present.

Goswami Brahmin(गोस्वामी ब्राह्मण):- 

ब्रह्म ज्ञान जान्यो नहीं, कर्म दिये छिटकाय।
तुलसी ऐसी आत्मा सहज नरक मँह जाय ।।
 

Goswami Brahmins are a prominent community within the broader Brahmin caste in India, known for their association with religious and spiritual pursuits. The title "Goswami" is an honorific term that signifies one who has mastery or control over the senses and emotions, often translated as "lord of the senses." The Goswami Brahmins traditionally hold positions of authority within Hindu religious institutions, particularly in the Vaishnavite tradition.

श्री विष्णु षोडश नाम स्तोत्रम् 

Key features of Goswami Brahmins:

Vaishnavite Tradition: Goswami Brahmins are closely associated with the Vaishnavite sect, which venerates Lord Vishnu as the Supreme God. They follow the teachings and philosophies of prominent Vaishnavite saints and scholars.

Historical Significance: The term "Goswami" gained prominence during the Bhakti movement, a medieval Hindu movement that emphasized devotion to a personal god, with a particular focus on the worship of Lord Krishna.

Religious Leadership: Goswami Brahmins often serve as religious leaders, priests, and scholars in Vaishnavite temples and monastic institutions. They are involved in the study and dissemination of religious scriptures, especially those related to the Krishna Bhakti tradition.

Ascetic Practices: Many Goswami Brahmins adopt ascetic lifestyles, practicing renunciation and focusing on spiritual pursuits. They may be associated with monastic orders and devote their lives to the service of God and the community.

Educational Contributions: Goswami Brahmins have made significant contributions to Hindu philosophy, theology, and literature. They play a crucial role in preserving and transmitting sacred texts and cultural traditions.

It's important to note that while the term "Goswami" is commonly associated with Vaishnavite Brahmins, there may be variations and regional differences in the practices and roles of Goswami Brahmins across India.

Goswami is normally a title ordained to the people who choose the path of Sannyasa. The disciples of Adi Shankaracharya are also called "Dash Nam Sanyasi" as the Title is further divided into ten groups viz. Giri, Puri, Bharati, Ban, Aranya, Sagar, Aashram, Saraswati, Tirtha, and Parwat. Dashnam Sannyasins are associated mainly with the four Maths( Govardhana Pitham (Rig Veda)-Puri, Sringeri Sarada Pitham (Yajur Veda) - Karnataka, Dwaraka Pitham (Sama Veda)–Dwarka Gujarat, Jyotirmatha or Joshi math (Atharva Veda)-Uttarakhand) in four corners of India, established by Adi Shankaracharya.

 Initially, all the disciples were Sannyasins who embraced sanyas either after marriage or without getting married. Since Sannyasins were Brahmin therefore during the course of time, those who embraced married life on the order of their guru and their decedents are considered Brahmins with the surname Goswami. They are mostly found in Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha, and rarely found in other parts of India and abroad. It is pertinent to mention here generally in Utkala, the instructor and spiritual master are called Goswami.

तृणादपि सुनीचेन तरोरपि सहिष्णुना।
अमानिना मानदेन कीर्तनीयः सदा हरिः।।

Modh  Brahmin (मोढ ब्राह्मण):-

यदा संहरते चायं कूर्मोऽङ्गानीव सर्वशः।

इन्द्रियाणीन्द्रियार्थेभ्यस्तस्य प्रज्ञा प्रतिष्ठिता ॥

The Modh Brahmin communities are groups of Brahmins who associate themselves with the name and origin of Modhera in Gujarat, India. Modhera is a historical town in Gujarat with cultural and religious significance, and communities that identify as Modh Brahmins likely trace their ancestry or cultural roots to this region.

It's common in India for Brahmin communities to adopt names associated with specific towns, regions, or historical places that hold significance for them. These names often reflect the community's historical or cultural ties and may also signify a shared heritage or origin. The Modh Brahmin communities, by linking themselves to Modhera, may have preserved a connection to the town's history, traditions, or religious practices.

 Mewada Brahmin (मेवाड़ा ब्राह्मण ):-

The Mewada Brahmin communities refer to groups of Brahmins who migrated from the Mewar region of Rajasthan to Gujarat. Migration of communities from one region to another in India has historically occurred for various reasons, including economic opportunities, political changes, or cultural factors.

In the case of the Mewada Brahmins, their migration from Mewar in Rajasthan to Gujarat suggests a historical movement of people, and they have likely established distinct communities in Gujarat while retaining their cultural and regional identity from Mewar. Such migrations have contributed to the cultural diversity and intermingling of traditions within different regions of India.

Upreti  Brahmin(उप्रेती ब्राह्मण):-

तावत् कर्माणि कुर्वीत न निर्विघेत यावता।
 मत्कथाश्रवणादौ वा श्रद्धा यावन्न जायते ।। 

The Upreti surname is associated with the Hindu community of Kumaoni Brahmins and Nepali Kumaoni Bahuns. These communities primarily reside in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India, and throughout Nepal. Additionally, there are a few members of the Upreti community found in Sikkim and other states of India.

Surnames often carry cultural and regional significance, and the prevalence of the Upreti surname among Kumaoni Brahmins and Nepali Kumain Bahuns suggests a shared heritage and cultural identity among individuals bearing this name.

Bawisa Brahmins (बावीसा ब्राह्मण):-

तावत् कर्माणि कुर्वीत न निर्विघेत यावता।
 मत्कथाश्रवणादौ वा श्रद्धा यावन्न जायते ।।
 

The Bawisa Brahmins have a historical connection with the construction of the Shiva temple at Shristhal or Siddhapur, commissioned by Moolraj of the Solanki dynasty, the King of Patan. According to the historical account, King Moolraj ordered the construction of a Shiva temple with 11 floors in Shristhal. For the commissioning of the temple and various pujas and rituals, Moolraj sought the expertise of knowledgeable and learned Brahmins from the North.

Upon consultation with priests, astrologers, and friends, Moolraj decided to invite capable Brahmins from the North. A total of 1037 Brahmin families were invited to Shristhal. Since 1000 Brahmins from these families came from the North, they were collectively referred to as Audichya (Odichya) Sahastra Brahmins.

These Brahmins, upon their arrival, were honored and awarded wealth by the king. A grand Yagya (ritual sacrifice) was organized in Siddhapur, Patan, Gujarat, where these Brahmins participated. As a mark of respect and gratitude, they were given settlements in 22 villages. This group of Brahmins came to be known as Bawisa Brahmins, signifying their connection to the number 22 (Bawisa). The Bawisa Brahmins have maintained their distinct identity and historical significance within the cultural and religious landscape of the region.
Dadheech Brahmins-दाधीच ब्राह्मण (दायमा ब्राह्मण):-

न बुद्धिभेदं जनयेदज्ञानां कर्मसङ्गिनाम्।
जोषयेत्सर्वकर्माणि विद्वानयुक्तः समाचरन् ॥

Dadheech Brahmins are a sub-group within the broader Brahmin community in India. Here are some key points about Dadheech Brahmins:

1. Geographical Origin: Dadheech Brahmins trace their origin to the Dadhichi Ashram, an ancient hermitage associated with the sage Dadhichi. The ashram is believed to have been located near the present-day town of Nohar in the Hanumangarh district of Rajasthan, India.

2. Legend of Sage Dadhichi: According to Hindu mythology, Sage Dadhichi is revered for his selfless act of sacrificing his life to provide his spinal column (vajra, or thunderbolt) for the creation of a powerful weapon, the Vajra, used by the gods to defeat the demon Vritra. Dadheech Brahmins take pride in their association with this legendary sage.

3. Occupational Background: Dadheech Brahmins, like many other Brahmin communities, traditionally engage in activities related to education, priesthood, and scholarly pursuits. They play roles as priests, teachers, and custodians of religious knowledge.

4. Cultural Practices: Dadheech Brahmins adhere to broader Brahminical cultural practices, including rituals, ceremonies, and festivals. However, they may also have specific customs and traditions associated with their unique history and connection to Sage Dadhichi.

5. Geographical Spread: While the community's roots are in Rajasthan, Dadheech Brahmins can be found in various parts of India, and like many other Brahmin groups, their diaspora extends to different regions and countries.

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7. The Dadheech Brahmins, also spelled Dadhich or Dahima, are a Brahmin subgroup in India claiming lineage from the esteemed sage Dadhichi. These Brahmins originate from the Marwar region and are one of the six distinct Brahmin groups in the area. The other five groups in the region are the Gauds, Pareeks, Saraswats, Sikhwals, and Khandelwal. Each of these Brahmin communities typically has its own cultural practices, traditions, and historical significance in the regions where they are present. The Dadheech Brahmins, specifically, have a unique identity rooted in their association with the sage Dadhichi.

8. Kota Brahmins:-

प्रकृतेः क्रियमाणानि गुणैः कर्माणि सर्वशः ।
अहङ्कारविमूढात्मा कर्ताहमिति मन्यते ॥

Kota Brahmins are a community primarily hailing from the Kundapur and surrounding regions of Udupi district in Karnataka. Additionally, they are found in areas such as Mangalore, Bantwal, and Puttur taluk in Dakshina Kannada district. The Kota Brahmins, like other Brahmin communities, have their distinct cultural practices, traditions, and historical significance in the regions where they are present. Their heritage is often intertwined with the local culture and religious practices of Karnataka.

Originally thought to have been brought to Kota (Udupi Taluk) and adjacent areas from northern India by Parashurama, they speak a Kannada different from the other regional dialects. Kota Brahmins who had been originally concentrated in the villages of Kota, Saligrama, Koteshwara, and Kundapura of Udupi district, have spread to other areas 
Malviya  Brahmins:-

प्रकृतेर्गुणसम्मूढाः सज्जन्ते गुणकर्मसु ।
 तानकृत्स्नविदो मन्दान्कृत्स्नविन्न विचालयेत् ॥

The Malviya Brahmins, also known as Malaviya, constitute a Brahmin sub-caste primarily found in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh in India. The term "Malviya" derives its literal meaning from "Malwa," a region in Central India. Members of this sub-caste identify with their regional origin in Malwa.

As with many Brahmin communities, the Malviya Brahmins likely engage in traditional occupations such as education, priesthood, and scholarly pursuits. Their identity is rooted in both their Brahminical heritage and their association with the geographical and cultural context of Malwa.

Brahmbhatts/Bhatts Brahmins:-

इन्द्रियस्येन्द्रियस्यार्थे रागद्वेषौ व्यवस्थितौ।
तयोर्न वशमागच्छेत्तौ ह्यस्य परिपन्थिनौ ॥

The Brahmbhatts or Bhatts Brahmins are a community with a historical presence in the social and cultural spheres of India. Traditionally, they held a respected position in society and were often referred to as "Deviputra," signifying the title of "Son of God." Their role extended to the royal courts, where they served as poets or advisers to kings and warriors.

In the Rajdarbar (royal court), Brahmbhatts played a crucial role as poets, chroniclers, and advisers. They were often esteemed for their knowledge of literature, philosophy, and their ability to provide counsel on various matters. Their contributions to the court were not only in the form of poetry but also in offering guidance on matters related to governance, ethics, and culture.

The title "Son of God" and the association with the royal court reflect the high regard and importance given to Brahmbhatts in historical Indian society, particularly in the context of the courts and cultural milieu. Their presence and influence have left a mark on the cultural and literary heritage of India

धूमेनावियते वह्निर्यथादर्शो मलेन च ।
 यथोल्बेनावृतो गर्भस्तथा तेनेदमावृतम् ॥

Rajapur Saraswat Brahmins:-
The Rajapur Saraswat Brahmins are a Hindu Brahmin community in India and constitute one of the significant sub-groups among Konkani Saraswat Brahmins. Konkani serves as their mother tongue, reflecting their linguistic and cultural affiliation with the Konkani-speaking communities. The Rajapur Saraswat Brahmins, like other Saraswat Brahmin groups, have distinct cultural practices, traditions, and contributions to the cultural and religious heritage of the regions where they are present.
Chitrapur Saraswats:-

Chitrapur Saraswats are a small Konkani-speaking community of Hindu Brahmins in India. Traditionally located along the Kanara coast, they refer to themselves as Bhanaps in the Konkani language. The Chitrapur Saraswats have a distinct cultural and religious identity, and their heritage is marked by a rich blend of Konkani traditions and Hindu Brahmin practices. They have contributed to the cultural fabric of the region and are known for their unique customs and rituals.
Nasarpuri Sindh Saraswat Brahmin:-
The Nasarpuri Sindh Saraswat Brahmins are a specific group of Saraswat Brahmins associated with Nasarpur in the Sindh province. Saraswat Brahmins are a community traditionally associated with knowledge, learning, and priesthood in Hinduism. The designation "Nasarpuri" signifies their connection to the region of Nasarpur in Sindh.

The term "Saraswat" broadly refers to a category of Brahmins with historical connections to the Sarasvati River region. The Saraswat Brahmins have a rich cultural and religious heritage, and their specific identification with Nasarpur indicates a regional or local subgroup within this broader 
Tamil Brahmins:-

इन्द्रियाणि मनो बुद्धिरस्याधिष्ठानमुच्यते ।
 एतैर्विमोहयत्येष ज्ञानमावृत्य देहिनम् ॥

Tamil Brahmins, also known as TamBrahms, are Tamil-speaking Brahmins primarily residing in Tamil Nadu, with some communities also present in other states like Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and Karnataka. This community can be broadly categorized into three religious groups, each following distinct traditions:

Gurukkals: Gurukkals are Tamil Brahmins who predominantly follow Saivism, a sect within Hinduism that venerates Lord Shiva. They play significant roles in the administration and priesthood of Shiva temples.

Iyers: Iyers follow the Srauta and Smartha traditions. The Srauta tradition involves adherence to Vedic rituals and ceremonies, while the Smartha tradition encompasses a broader range of Hindu practices. Iyers are known for their involvement in various professions, including priesthood, education, and administration.

Iyengars: Iyengars follow Sri Vaishnavism, a devotional tradition centered around the worship of Lord Vishnu, particularly in His form as Lord Narayana. They have distinctive practices, including the recitation of divya prabandhams (devotional poems) and active participation in Sri Vaishnavite rituals.

These three groups within the Tamil Brahmin community showcase the diversity of religious practices and traditions present among Brahmins in Tamil Nadu.

Iyengar Brahmins:-

तावत् कर्माणि कुर्वीत न निर्विघेत यावता।
मत्कथाश्रवणादौ वा श्रद्धा यावन्न जायते ।। 

Iyengar Brahmins are a prominent subsect of Brahmins in India, particularly associated with the Vaishnavite tradition. They follow the teachings of the Sri Vaishnavism, a philosophical and devotional tradition that centers around the worship of Lord Vishnu, with a specific emphasis on devotion to Lord Narayana. The Iyengar community has a rich cultural and religious heritage, and its members have historically played significant roles in preserving and promoting the Vaishnavite philosophy.

Key features of Iyengar Brahmins:

1. Sri Vaishnavism: Iyengar Brahmins adhere to the principles of Sri Vaishnavism, a school of thought that traces its origins to the teachings of saint Ramanuja. The philosophy emphasizes the importance of surrender and devotion to Lord Vishnu as the ultimate path to salvation.

2. Vedantic Studies: Education and scholarship hold great importance in the Iyengar community. Many Iyengar Brahmins traditionally engage in the study of Vedas, Upanishads, and other sacred texts, contributing to the intellectual and spiritual heritage of the community.

3. Temple Rituals and Service: Iyengars often serve as priests in Vaishnavite temples, actively participating in religious rituals and ceremonies. Temples associated with the Iyengar community are centers of religious and cultural activities.

4. Distinctive Practices: The Iyengar community follows specific rituals, customs, and traditions that distinguish them within the broader Brahmin and Hindu communities. These practices often include unique forms of worship, ceremonies, and dietary preferences.

5. Community Organization: Iyengar Brahmins are organized into various subgroups based on their ancestral lineages and regional affiliations. The two primary subgroups are Vadakalai and Thenkalai, each with its own distinct practices and interpretations of Sri Vaishnavite philosophy.

6. Contributions to Arts and Culture: Iyengar Brahmins have made significant contributions to classical arts, literature, and music. Many notable personalities from this community have excelled in fields such as Carnatic music, dance, and literature.

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8. The Iyengar Brahmin community, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and unwavering devotion to Lord Vishnu, continues to hold a significant position in the religious and intellectual fabric of India. Hebbar Iyengars, distinguished by their unique Tamil dialect known as Hebbar Tamil, were originally concentrated in Karnataka towns such as Belur, Shanti Grama, Nuggehalli, Nonavinakere, Bindiganavile, Hampapura, and Hiremagalur. Believed to be the descendants of Srivaishnavas who migrated from Tamil Nadu to Karnataka under the influence of Ramanuja, the Hebbars have established a distinctive identity in their new cultural milieu. Mandayam Iyengars, a specific sect within the broader Iyengar community, have settled in various parts of Karnataka, particularly in Melkote. The Mandayam Iyengars also communicate in a distinct Tamil dialect called Mandayam Tamil. Devoted followers of Ramanujacharya and Manavala Mamunigal, they contribute to the cultural and religious diversity of the regions they inhabit, with Melkote being a significant center for their community.

Iyer  Brahmins:-

न कहापणवस्सेन, तित्ति कामेसु विज्जति।
अप्पस्सादा दुखा कामा, इति विज्ञाय पण्डितो।

Iyer Brahmins are a prominent community within the broader Brahmin caste, primarily concentrated in the southern Indian states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. They follow the Smartha tradition, which is characterized by the worship of five major deities (Panchayatana Puja), namely Shiva, Vishnu, Devi (Shakti), Surya (the Sun God), and Ganesha. The Iyer community has a distinctive cultural and religious identity with a strong emphasis on education, rituals, and adherence to traditional practices.

Key features of Iyer Brahmins:

Smartha Tradition: Iyer Brahmins adhere to the Smartha tradition, which emphasizes the worship of a diverse set of deities. This tradition encourages flexibility in choosing the primary deity for worship, allowing individuals to focus on one or more of the Panchayatana deities.

Vedic Scholarship: Education and the study of Vedas, Upanishads, and other sacred texts are highly valued in the Iyer community. Many Iyer Brahmins historically played pivotal roles as scholars, teachers, and custodians of Vedic knowledge.

Priestly Roles: Iyer Brahmins often serve as priests in temples and conduct various religious ceremonies, including weddings, rituals, and festivals. The community places a strong emphasis on the proper performance of religious rites and rituals.

Strict Adherence to Rituals: The Iyer community is known for its strict adherence to traditional rituals and customs. Rituals related to birth, marriage, and death are performed meticulously, following age-old practices.

Distinctive Dietary Practices: Dietary habits among Iyer Brahmins often include a preference for vegetarianism, with an emphasis on homemade and Satvik (pure) food. Meals are typically prepared with attention to religious dietary guidelines.

Community Organization: Within the Iyer Brahmin community, there are subgroups based on regional affiliations and cultural variations. These subgroups often have unique customs and practices.

Contributions to Arts and Sciences: Iyer Brahmins have made notable contributions to various fields, including classical arts, literature, and sciences. Many have excelled in fields such as Carnatic music, dance, philosophy, and mathematics.

The Iyer Brahmin community continues to be an integral part of the cultural, religious, and intellectual landscape of South India, preserving and passing down their rich traditions through generations.

Daivadnya Brahmins:-

इन्द्रियाणि पराण्याहुरिन्द्रियेभ्यः परं मनः।
 मनसस्तु परा बुद्धिर्यो बुद्धेः परतस्तु सः ॥

The Daivadnya is a Hindu Brahmin caste of the west coast of India, predominantly residing in the states of Goa, coastal Karnataka, and coastal Maharashtra. Goa is considered to be their original homeland, giving rise to them sometimes being called Gomantaka  Daivadnya. Due to many socio-economic reasons, they emigrated to different parts of India within the last few centuries.
Chitpavan Brahmins:- 

आत्मानं रथिनं विद्धि शरीरं रथमेव तु।
 बुद्धिं तु सारथिं विद्धि मनः प्रग्रहमेव च ।।
 इन्द्रियाणि हयानाहुर्विषयां स्तेषु गोचरान्।
आत्मेन्द्रियमनोयुक्तं भोक्तेत्याहुर्मनीषिणः।।
 

Chitpavan Brahmins are a Brahmin community primarily concentrated in the western Indian state of Maharashtra. Here are some key points about Chitpavan Brahmins:

Geographical Concentration: Chitpavan Brahmins have a strong historical presence in the Konkan region of Maharashtra, including areas like Konkan, Pune, and parts of Mumbai. They have been influential in various spheres of life in this region.

Historical Background: The Chitpavan Brahmins are known for their scholarly and administrative roles in the Maratha Empire during the 17th and 18th centuries. Prominent historical figures from this community include Bal Gangadhar Tilak, a key leader in the Indian independence movement.

Occupational Pursuits: Traditionally, Chitpavan Brahmins have been involved in professions such as priesthood, academics, and administration. They have made significant contributions to literature, philosophy, and public service.

Cultural Practices: Chitpavan Brahmins, like other Brahmin communities, follow Brahminical cultural practices, including rituals, ceremonies, and festivals. They have a distinct cultural identity shaped by their historical experiences and contributions to society
Embrandiri Brahmin:-

The Embrandiri (also transliterated as Embranthiri) is a Malayali Brahmin subcaste with Tulu origins. This community consists of Brahmins who migrated to Kerala from Tulu Nadu, specifically from present-day Udupi in Karnataka. Despite settling in Kerala, many Embranthiris continue to speak Tulu as their mother tongue, and they are recognized as Tulu Brahmins.

It's notable that, upon their arrival in Kerala, certain sects of Embranthiris adopted Malayali Brahmin surnames such as "Namboothiri" and "Potti." This reflects the dynamic nature of cultural interactions and influences on Brahmin communities as they migrated and integrated into different regions of India.

अजोऽपि सन्नव्ययात्मा भूतानामीश्वरोऽपि सन्।
 प्रकृतिं स्वामधिष्ठाय संभवाम्यात्ममायया।।

The Embrandiri community, being followers of Vaishnavism, predominantly adhere to the worship and service of deities associated with Vaishnava traditions. This includes serving in Vishnu Temples, Krishna Temples, and participating in Yagams (ritualistic ceremonies) dedicated to Vaishnava deities. Their commitment to Vaishnavism shapes their religious practices, emphasizing devotion to Lord Vishnu and related manifestations. Temples and ceremonies dedicated to Vishnu and Krishna are likely focal points for the Embrandiri community, reflecting their dedication to the Vaishnavite tradition.
Tulu Brahmins:- 

Tulu Nadu

Tulu Brahmins, also known as Tuluva Brahmins, are the inhabitants of Tulu Nadu in Karnataka. This community includes various sub-sects, one of which is the Sthanika Brahmins. Often referred to as "Sthanika Tulu Brahmins" or simply "Tulu Brahmins," this group is considered the original inhabitants of Tulu Nadu, with a history that predates 380 B.C.
Smartha Brahmins:-

Smartha Brahmins are adherents of the Smartha tradition, which represents a Hindu synthesis of four philosophical strands: Mimamsa, Advaita, Yoga, and theistic principles. This tradition is characterized by its rejection of theistic sectarianism and emphasizes the worship of five shrines with five deities, treating them all as equal. These deities include Vishnu, Shiva, Ganesha, Surya, and Parvati (Shakti).

The Smartha tradition is notable for its inclusive approach, recognizing the equal importance of various deities and embracing a harmonious coexistence of different philosophical perspectives. Smartha Brahmins are guided primarily by the traditions of the Smriti, holding the doctrine of Advaita, which asserts the non-dual nature of ultimate reality. They practice the worship of all principal deities equally, and this tradition has thrived prominently in southern India.

Shivalli Brahmins:-

The Shivalli Brahmins are a Hindu community residing in Tulu Nadu. This community is divided into two groups based on their philosophical affiliations:

Shivalli Madhwa Brahmins: This group follows the Dvaita philosophy, which was founded by the Vaishnava saint Madhvacharya of Udupi. The adherence to Dvaita philosophy signifies their belief in the essential dualism between the individual soul (jivatma) and the supreme reality (paramatma).

Shivalli Smartha Brahmins: The second group follows the Advaita Vedanta philosophy, as propounded by Adi Shankara. The Advaita philosophy emphasizes the non-dual nature of the ultimate reality, asserting the oneness of the individual soul with the supreme reality.

These two sub-groups within the Shivalli Brahmin community reflect the diversity of philosophical perspectives present within Hindu traditions, with one group aligned with the Madhwa tradition and the other with the Smartha tradition.

SAHASRA NAMA OF LORD VISHNU

Madhwa Brahmins:-

Madhwa Brahmins, or Madhwas, are subcastes within the Hindu Brahmin community in India. They adhere to the Dvaita philosophy, a dualistic school of thought propounded by the influential philosopher Madhvacharya. Madhwa Brahmins are primarily concentrated in the Indian states of Karnataka, Goa, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh. The Dvaita philosophy, central to their beliefs, emphasizes a fundamental dualism between the individual soul (jivatma) and the supreme reality (paramatma). The Madhwa community plays a significant role in preserving and propagating the teachings of Madhvacharya and contributing to the religious and cultural landscape of the regions where they are prevalent.
Babburkamme Brahmins:-

The Babburkamme, also known as Babbur Kamme, Bobburukamme, or Babboor Kamme, is a community of Brahmins in India. They identify as Hindu Pancha Dravida Smartha Brahmins. According to historical accounts, it is believed that the Kamme communities migrated south over an extended period, possibly during the dominion of the Satavahanas. This migration took them through various regions, including the territories of the Chalukya, Rashtrakuta, Vijayanagara kingdoms, and eventually to the Mysore Kingdom in southern Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

Throughout their history, the Babburkamme community has played influential roles in politics, holding positions such as ministers, chief priests, scholars, and poets under different kingdoms. Their contributions have been noteworthy in shaping the cultural, political, and intellectual landscapes of the regions where they have resided.

The related community known as Uluchu Kamme shares Kannada as their mother tongue. The Babburkammes are predominantly found in various towns across Karnataka, including Bangalore, Mysore, Holenarasipura, Konanur, Arkalgud, Bellur, Kanakatte, Mirle, Arasikere, Belavadi, Mayasandra, Bettadapura, Davangere, Shivamogga, Chikkamagaluru, and Bhadravati. Their widespread presence in these regions reflects their historical and cultural connections within the state of Karnataka.

Badaganadu Brahmins:-
The Badaganadu is a Brahmin community primarily residing in Karnataka, India. Within the larger context of Brahmin communities, the Badaganadu community is recognized as one of the three main streams of followers of the Advaita Vedanta philosophy propounded by Adi Shankara. They are also adherents of the Smarta tradition, which emphasizes the worship of multiple deities while recognizing the underlying unity of all divine forms. The Badaganadu community has contributed to the cultural and religious fabric of Karnataka, particularly through their association with Advaita Vedanta and the Smarta tradition.
Panchagrama Brahmin (पंचग्राम ब्राह्मण):-

The term "Panchagrama Brahmin" (पंचग्राम ब्राह्मण) originates from Sanskrit and translates to "Brahmin from five villages." While primarily Kannada speakers, the Panchagramis are categorized as one of the six subdivisions of Tulu Brahmins, alongside other Kannada and Tulu-speaking Brahmins in the South Canara district of Karnataka. This classification is due to the prevalence of Tulu in the historical South Canara district, which included the present Udupi district.

The majority of the Panchagrama Brahmin community is concentrated in the Shimoga and Chikamagalur districts, with notable populations in Bengaluru and other cities. Following the Smartha tradition, they are Brahmins who adhere to the cultural and religious practices associated with this tradition. Their presence is primarily in the Indian state of Karnataka, with significant communities residing in the districts of Udupi, Shimoga, and Chikmagalur, as well as in Bengaluru and other urban centers.
Sathatha Sri Vaishnavas Brahmins:-
The Sathatha Sri Vaishnavas, alternatively known as Chattada Sri Vaishnavas or Sattada Sri Vaishnavas, are a community primarily located in the states of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu. Over several centuries, they have been actively engaged in rendering diverse services within Sri Vaishnava temples. This involvement includes roles such as archakas (or arcakas), Dharmakartas, guardians of temple properties, and providers of essential items like flowers, including garlands used in worship ceremonies. Their longstanding contributions play a crucial role in the upkeep and functioning of Sri Vaishnava temples in the regions where they are present.

Kandavara Brahmins:-

The Kandavara Brahmins, a group of Smartha Brahmins, trace their origin to Kandavara in the South Canara district of Karnataka. They have established communities in various regions, including Mangalore, Udupi, Bengaluru, Thirthahalli, Sringeri, Shimoga, and others.

In contrast to some Brahmin communities who adopted the Dwaita philosophy influenced by the teachings of Madhavacharya and Vadiraja Tirtha, the Kandavara Brahmins have maintained their adherence to the Advaita Philosophy. They continue to be Bhasma Dhari or followers of Smartha tradition, emphasizing the monistic perspective associated with Advaita.

Vaidiki Brahmins:- 

मनुष्याणां सहस्रेषु कश्चिद्यतति सिद्धये ।
 यततामपि सिद्धानां कश्चिन्मां वेत्ति तत्त्वतः ॥

Vaidiki Brahmins, also known as Vaidika, Vaidikulu, or Vaideeki, constitute a sect of Telugu-speaking Smartha Brahmins. Primarily followers of Adi Shankaracharya, they are predominantly concentrated in the state of Andhra Pradesh. The name "Vaidiki" is derived from the term "Vedas," reflecting their association with Vedic traditions and knowledge.
Mulukanadu Brahmins:- 

The Mulukanadu Brahmins, also known by variations such as Murikinadu, Muluknadu, Moolakanadu, and Mulikinadu, form a sub-group among Telugu-speaking Vaidiki Smartha Brahmins. This community is widespread across the southern states, with a significant presence in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, and a partial presence in Maharashtra.

Origin of Mulukanadu Brahmins:-  

The origin of Mulukanadu Brahmins is a topic subject to varying opinions. According to one view, the Mulukanadu Brahmins were initially a sub-sect residing south of the Vindhyas in the Vijayanagara Empire during the 1st and 2nd centuries A.D., in an area known as Mulka. The term 'Nadu' denotes a state or region in South India. Some historical inscriptions suggest a possible connection to the Western Satavahana Dynasty, particularly during the rule of Vasishta Putra Satakarni.

Following the reign of Vasishta Putra Satakarni and amid turbulent conditions in the region, these Brahmins are believed to have migrated southward, eventually settling in the Kadapa and Nellore regions of present-day Andhra Pradesh. During their migration, some also established communities in the present Mehboobnagar district, which retains the name Mulka.

An alternative hypothesis proposes that the Mulukanadu Brahmins might have originated from the central part of contemporary Maharashtra, specifically the district of Aurangabad and its surroundings, formerly referred to as "Mulka" land. This region is situated north of the Godavari River. Historical records from the 10th century A.D. link the Mulukanadu community to Taluks in Kadapa, Pulivendula, and Proddatur of Kadapa district in Andhra Pradesh, where Mulukanadu families continue to reside.
Bardai Brahmins:-

Bardai Brahmins are a distinct group of Brahmins whose ancestral roots trace back to the state of Gujarat in India. This community is primarily concentrated in the coastal city of Porbandar.
Sankethi Brahmin:-

The Sankethi Brahmins constitute a South Indian community residing primarily in the villages of Karnataka, India, particularly in the southern regions of the state. They communicate in Sankethi, a Dravidian language closely associated with Tamil and Kannada.

Known for their cultural and intellectual practices, the Sankethi community has historically embraced Advaita Vedanta and upholds the ancient tradition of avadhanam. Additionally, they boast a rich heritage in Carnatic classical music, contributing to the cultural tapestry of the region.

Hoysala Karnataka Brahmins:-

The Hoysala Karnataka Brahmins represent a community of Smartha Brahmins who primarily speak Kannada. This Brahmin sect is dispersed across the southern districts of the Indian state of Karnataka.
Karhaḍe Brahmins:-

The Karhaḍe community constitutes a subgroup among Maharashtrian Brahmins. Originating from Karad in the Satara district of Maharashtra, the Karhades migrated in pursuit of livelihood opportunities. Their migration led them to undertake priestly services in numerous villages spanning various regions across Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Goa.
Pushpaka Brahmins:-

The term "Pushpaka Brahmin" encompasses various Hindu Brahmin castes within the Ambalavasi community in Kerala. This generic classification primarily includes two distinct castes: the Pushpakas (or Pushpaka Unnis) and the Nambeesanas. These Brahmins were traditionally entrusted with the responsibility of tending to flowers and crafting garlands for Hindu temples. In addition to their floral duties, they play a vital role in imparting knowledge of sacred texts and the Sanskrit language, often serving as teachers in the Pathasalas associated with Hindu temples.

Over time, the definition of Pushpaka Brahmin expanded to include other communities with similar cultural practices and temple-related occupations. This broader categorization encompasses groups like Theeyatt Unnis, Kurukkals, Puppallis, and others who share a common cultural heritage and engage in various roles related to temple activities.

In essence, Pushpaka Brahmins represent a diverse amalgamation of Brahmin castes within the Ambalavasi community in Kerala, united by their involvement in temple rituals, teaching sacred texts, and maintaining cultural practices associated with Hindu temples.
Niyogi Brahmins:-

तस्मादसक्तः सततं कार्यं कर्म समाचर ।
 असक्तो ह्याचरन्कर्म परमानोति पुरुषः ॥

Niyogi Brahmins are a prominent community of Brahmins primarily found in the Southern Indian states of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and parts of Karnataka. The term "Niyogi" is derived from the Sanskrit word "niyoga," which means duty or responsibility. Historically, Niyogi Brahmins have been associated with performing priestly duties, conducting rituals, and upholding religious traditions.

Key features and aspects of the Niyogi Brahmin community include:

Priestly Duties: Niyogi Brahmins traditionally engage in various priestly functions, serving in temples and officiating ceremonies. They play a crucial role in preserving and transmitting Vedic knowledge and rituals.

Social Structure: The Niyogi Brahmins, like other Brahmin communities, are organized into various gotras (lineages) and follow endogamous practices, often marrying within their own community.

Education and Knowledge: Education and the pursuit of knowledge have been traditionally valued in Niyogi Brahmin families. Many individuals from this community have been scholars, educators, and practitioners of Vedic disciplines.

Occupational Diversity: While the community has a strong association with religious and priestly occupations, Niyogi Brahmins have also been involved in other professions, including education, administration, and business.

Cultural Contributions: Niyogi Brahmins have made notable contributions to the cultural and intellectual landscape of the regions where they reside. This includes contributions to classical arts, literature, and philosophy.

It's important to note that within the larger category of Niyogi Brahmins, there may be sub-groups and regional variations in customs and traditions. The community continues to play a significant role in the socio-religious fabric of Southern India.
Sakaldwipiya Brahmins:-

ॐ जपाकुसुम संकाशं काश्यपेयं महाधुतिम् ।
तमोऽरि सर्वपापघ्नं प्रणतोऽस्मि दिवाकरम् ॥

Sakaldwipiya Brahmins are a community of Brahmins known for their association with Sakaldwip or Chakratirtha, an ancient pilgrimage site in the Indian subcontinent. This community is considered to be part of the broader Brahmin class and holds significance in the realms of religious rituals and knowledge.

The term "Sakaldwipiya" is derived from the Sanskrit words "Sakala" meaning complete or whole, and "Dwipa" meaning island. Sakaldwip is believed to be a sacred island, and the Sakaldwipiya Brahmins are often associated with the worship and administration of religious rites at this revered site.

Members of the Sakaldwipiya Brahmin community are likely to be involved in various priestly duties, including conducting ceremonies, rituals, and imparting religious knowledge. Like many Brahmin communities, they may have specific practices and traditions unique to their cultural and religious identity.

While the specific details of their customs and history may vary, Sakaldwipiya Brahmins, in general, contribute to the preservation and propagation of religious and cultural traditions associated with the sacred site of Sakaldwip. They are one of the most prominent Brahmin groups in Bihar.
Hussaini Brahmins:-

The Hussaini Brahmins constitute a Hindu community with a distinctive historical narrative. According to their tradition, their forebears actively participated on the side of Imam Hussain in the pivotal Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. This battle, a significant event in Islamic history, was fought for principles of justice and resistance against oppression.

The Hussaini Brahmins' claim to have ancestral connections to the Battle of Karbala sets them apart, weaving a unique thread of history into their cultural and communal identity. This historical link with Imam Hussain, revered in both Islamic and, in this case, Hindu contexts, shapes the narrative and identity of the Hussaini Brahmin community. Their participation in this historic event has likely influenced their traditions, practices, and cultural expressions over the centuries.

The Hussaini Brahmins, identified as a Mohyal community, embody a unique synthesis of Hindu and Islamic influences. Geographically dispersed across regions such as Sindh and Punjab in Pakistan, as well as Punjab, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and other states in India, this community has distinct cultural and historical ties.

Members of the Hussaini Brahmin community are associated with surnames that reflect their diverse heritage, including Mohan, Bali, Chibber, Dutt, Bakshi, Lav, Bimwal, Jhingran, and others. This blending of names reflects the intricate interweaving of Hindu and Islamic influences within the community.

The Hussaini Brahmins' geographical spread across both countries, as well as their diverse surnames, signifies the rich tapestry of their cultural heritage. The unique amalgamation of Hindu and Islamic traditions has contributed to the community's distinct identity, reflecting the historical connections and cultural exchanges that have shaped their way of life.
Dogra Brahmins:-

यौवनं धनसम्पत्तिः प्रभुत्वमविवेकिता।
 एकैकमप्यनर्थाय किमु यत्र चतुष्टयम्॥

Dogra Brahmins are a community of Brahmins primarily found in the Dogra region, which encompasses parts of the Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Known for their cultural and historical significance in the region, Dogra Brahmins have played a role in various aspects of society, including religious practices, education, and community leadership.

The Dogra Brahmins, like other Brahmin communities, are traditionally associated with priestly duties and the preservation of religious and cultural traditions. They are often engaged in activities such as conducting rituals, performing ceremonies, and providing guidance on matters of spirituality. In addition to their religious roles, Dogra Brahmins have contributed to the intellectual and educational landscape of the region.

The community has maintained a distinct cultural identity, shaped by the historical and geographical context of the Dogra region. Over the years, Dogra Brahmins have adapted to changes in society while preserving their traditions and customs. They continue to be an integral part of the social fabric in the Dogra region, contributing to the diversity and richness of the cultural tapestry in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Brahmin Dogras primarily belong to the Saraswat Brahmin lineage and share a genetic commonality with Saraswat Brahmins of Kashmir. Concentrated mainly in the Jammu region of Jammu and Kashmir, as well as in neighboring areas of Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and northeastern Pakistan, the Dogra Brahmin community is diverse, comprising numerous sub-castes. Among these sub-castes are Badyal, Baru, Bamotra, Basgotra, Basotra, Beyal, Bhardwaj, Bral, Chelda, Goswami, Jamwal, Khajuria, Lateyal, Makheyal, Padgotra, Padha, Padyad, Pangotra, Raina (Rein), Targotra, Sadotra, Sanyal, Uppal, and others.

Joshi Brahmins:

The Joshi Brahmins, specifically those in the hills, were commonly known as Jyotishis or Joshis, reflecting their expertise in astrology. Primarily belonging to the Kanyakubja Brahmin community and recognized as part of the Satkulis (six leading lineages) of Brahmins, the Joshis were esteemed for their proficiency in astrology, intelligence, and political influence. Over several centuries in Kumaon, Joshis from areas such as Jhijar and Danya held significant political power. As time progressed, Joshis from Cheenakhan and Makidi also emerged as influential figures in the political landscape.

In Kumaon, the Brahmins trace their roots back to the Vedic Aryan priests who migrated from the plains. These Brahmins, hailing from regions like Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Karnataka, settled in Kumaon along with Rajputs. Some Brahmins, initially visitors to religious sites in Kumaon, eventually chose to establish permanent residence there. Like the Rajputs, they adopted the practice of naming their settlements and surnames based on their places of origin.

While the specific reasons for migration may be lost to history, certain traditions persisted among the Brahmin community in Kumaon. Rituals such as the thread ceremony, where the Vedas are recited for three days, and the anointed Brahmin seeks alms, undergoes tonsure, and pierces his ears, were common practices. The Brahmins held key roles in imparting knowledge, leading prayers, and conducting rituals within the community.

Dakaut( डकोत ब्राह्मण) Brahmins:-

ब्रह्म ज्ञान जान्यो नहीं, कर्म दिये छिटकाय।
 तुलसी ऐसी आत्मा सहज नरक मँह जाय ।। 

Dakaut Brahmins are mainly found in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Punjab and rarely found in other parts of India and abroad. The Dakaut Brahmins are fortune tellers. They receive all the unlucky offerings that other Brahmins do not receive for example Shani Daan. Dakots have a strong sense of pride and honor as Brahmins.
Origin of Dakaut Brahmins:-
Maharshi Shandilya had a son and his name was Maharshi Damracharya. He was also known by various names like Dank Muni, Danknath, Dakk Rishi, etc. The descendants of Dank Muni, Danknath were later called "Dakka" Brahmin, which was later gradually called "Dakot"/Dakaut Brahmin in mutual colloquialism.

 महर्षि शांडिल्य  से महर्षि डामराचार्य का जन्म हुआ। जिन्हें डंक मुनि , डंकनाथ , डक्क ऋषि आदि कई नामो से जाना गया। इन्ही का वंश आगे चलकर " डक्का " ब्राह्मण कहलाया जो बाद में धीरे धीरे आपसी बोलचाल में " डाकोत " कहलाया जाने लगा। शनि दान  डकोत ब्राह्मण  को ही देना उचित बताया गया है ।
The Pujaris and Bhojkis:-
"Pujari refers to the officiating priest at a temple or shrine, typically belonging to the Brahmin or Faqir communities. However, in the Kangra and Simla hills, the Pujaris associated with the shrines have evolved into a distinct caste. Originally comprised of a diverse mix of communities, this caste, known as Bhojkis, specifically serves as the hereditary priests for renowned temples like Jawalamukhi and Bawan. Members of this caste wear the sacred thread and practice endogamy, marrying among themselves."
Chamarwa Brahmins:-
Chamarwa Brahmins are Brahmins engaged in performing priestly duties for Chamars, Aheris, and other castes. Despite wearing the sacred thread, they are not acknowledged as Brahmins by other classes. There is a possibility that their claim to Brahmin lineage is questionable. However, it appears likely that they are indeed Brahmins by ancestry who have, over time, descended from their once elevated status. They are commonly referred to as Chamarwa Sadhs.
Guru Brahmin:- 

Guru Brahmin is a community found mainly in western India in the states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra.

In addition to the aforementioned section and subsection of Brahmins, there are approximately 50 other distinct groups known for their work, place of origin, or other specific reasons. Some notable examples include Kandavara Brahmins, Koteshwara Brahmins, Namboothiri Brahmins, Padia Brahmins, Saklapuri Brahmins, Sthanika Brahmins, Dhima Brahmins, Pir Ali Brahmins, and many more. Each of these groups is recognized by a unique identifier based on their contributions, geographic origins, or other distinguishing factors.

Classes among Brahmins:-

The Brahmins are of three classes

• Vedic (वैदिक ब्राह्मण ) Brahmins.

• Purohit (पुरोहित/पुजारी ब्राह्मण ) Brahmins.

• Halua(agrarian) (हळुआ ब्राह्मण)/Ayachak Brahmin( अयाचक ब्राह्मण) /Bhumihar Brahmins.

1.Vedic/Shrauta(वैदिक/श्रौत ब्राह्मण ) Brahmins:-

The Vedic Brahmins of India hold a significant place in the country's ancient cultural and religious history. The term "Vedic" refers to the Vedas, which are the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism and are considered the foundation of Indian philosophical and religious thought. The Brahmins, as a social and religious group, played a central role in preserving, reciting, and interpreting these sacred scriptures.

In the Vedic period of ancient India, society was organized into a hierarchical structure known as the varna system, which categorized people into different groups based on their occupations and roles. The Brahmins occupied the topmost position in this social order, and they were further classified based on their specific functions and duties. The classification of Vedic Brahmins is traditionally based on the roles they played in religious rituals and ceremonies. The four main classifications are:

1.Hotri Brahmins:

Role: The Hotri Brahmins were primarily responsible for reciting hymns and mantras during Vedic rituals and sacrificial ceremonies.

Function: They played a central role in the performance of Yajnas (fire sacrifices) and ensured the correct pronunciation and intonation of the sacred chants.

2.Adhvaryu Brahmins:

Role: The Adhvaryu Brahmins were in charge of the physical aspects of Vedic rituals, including the preparation of the sacrificial ground, the altar, and the ritual implements.

Function: They performed the practical aspects of the rituals, such as offering oblations into the fire and ensuring the proper sequencing of the sacrificial acts.

3.Udgatri Brahmins:

Role: The Udgatri Brahmins specialized in chanting the hymns of the Samaveda during rituals.

Function: Their main task was to sing and chant the Vedic verses in a melodic and harmonious manner, adding a musical dimension to the ceremonies.

4.Brahma Brahmins:

Role: The Brahmanas were responsible for the intellectual and philosophical aspects of the Vedic rituals.

Function: They were the custodians of Vedic knowledge and were involved in explaining the meaning of the rituals, hymns, and mantras. They also served as teachers and advisers.

It's important to note that these classifications were not rigid, and individuals could move between roles based on their knowledge, skills, and family traditions. The varna system and the roles of the Brahmins were not solely determined by birth; education and aptitude played a crucial role. Over time, as society evolved, the varna system became more complex, and the roles of individuals were not strictly confined to the traditional classifications.

The classifications of Vedic Brahmins highlight the intricate division of labor and specialization within the priestly class during the Vedic period. These classifications were essential for the smooth conduct of complex Vedic rituals, and they contributed to the preservation and transmission of the Vedic texts and traditions.

They are the ancient Brahmins and interpreters, Messenger and teachers of Vedas & author of Vedic and other religious books. They are noble, pious, saintlike Brahmins.

वेद मंत्र पाठ

आत्मानं रथिनं विद्धि शरीरं रथमेव तु।
 बुद्धिं तु सारथिं विद्धि मनः प्रग्रहमेव च ।।
 इन्द्रियाणि हयानाहुर्विषयां स्तेषु गोचरान्।
आत्मेन्द्रियमनोयुक्तं भोक्तेत्याहुर्मनीषिणः।। 

They are also called Shrauta(श्रौत) Brahmins. They follow Shrauta (Shruti describes the sacred texts comprising the central canon of Hinduism viz. Vedas, Brahmanas, Aranyakas, & Upanishads) traditions.

They do Yajna(yaj" which means to worship), Yaajana, Adhyayana, Adhyapana, Daana, Pratigraha. They give more importance to Veda, daily Upasana, and Agnihotra. Only these groups of Brahmins have the right to conduct Yaagas.

कर्म ब्रह्योद्भवं विद्धि बह्माक्षरसमुद्भवम् ।
 तस्मात्सर्वगतं। ब्रह्म नित्यं यज्ञे प्रतिष्ठितम् ॥

2." Purohita (पुरोहित &पुजारी ब्राह्मण) Brahmins”:-

The terms "Purohita" (पुरोहित) and "Pujari" (पुजारी) refer to specific roles within the broader category of Brahmins in Hindu society. While both terms are often used interchangeably, they carry distinct meanings in the context of religious and ceremonial practices.

Purohita Brahmins:

Role and Function:

The term "Purohita" translates to "ritualistic priest" or "family priest."

Purohita Brahmins serve as personal or family priests, providing guidance and conducting religious ceremonies for individuals, families, and communities.

Their primary responsibility is to perform various rites, rituals, and ceremonies on behalf of their patrons, including weddings, funerals, and other significant life events.

Purohita Brahmins play a crucial role in connecting individuals with the divine, offering prayers, and ensuring the proper performance of religious duties.

Relationship with Patrons:

Purohita Brahmins establish a close relationship with the families they serve, often spanning generations. They become trusted advisors on religious matters and are consulted for auspicious timings, rituals, and other spiritual guidance.

Their role extends beyond ceremonial functions, as they may also offer counsel on matters related to dharma (righteousness) and ethical conduct.

Pujari Brahmins:

Role and Function:

The term "Pujari" broadly refers to a temple priest or one who performs worship ceremonies in a specific religious setting, such as a temple or shrine.

Pujari Brahmins are responsible for conducting daily rituals, ceremonies, and puja (worship) within temples.

Their duties include the decoration of deities, performing aarti (rituals involving light), and leading congregational worship during festivals.

Temple Service:

Pujari Brahmins often live within or near the temple premises, dedicating themselves to the service of the deity and the spiritual needs of the community.

They follow specific guidelines and traditions outlined in religious texts regarding the proper performance of rituals and ceremonies within the temple.

Similarities and Distinctions:

Both Purohita and Pujari Brahmins share the common responsibility of facilitating worship and maintaining the connection between individuals and the divine.

Purohita Brahmins are more closely associated with personal and familial ceremonies, whereas Pujari Brahmins are typically affiliated with temple worship and public rituals.

The distinction between the two roles can blur in practice, as some Brahmins may serve in both capacities, depending on the needs of the community.

In summary, Purohita and Pujari Brahmins are essential figures in Hindu religious practices, providing spiritual guidance and conducting ceremonies at both individual and communal levels. Their roles contribute to the preservation of cultural and religious traditions, fostering a deep sense of connection between people and the divine.

They are noble, pious Brahmins. They follow the Karma Kanda and act as priests for social as well as for some temple functions. They give more importance to temple worship and priesthood. They read Veda and teach it. Some of them follow Agama(आगम).
The term Agama literally means tradition or "that which has come down", and the Agama texts describe cosmology, epistemology, philosophical doctrines, precepts on meditation and practices, four kinds of yoga, mantras, temple construction, deity worship. 

कर्मेन्द्रियाणि संयम्य य आस्ते मनसा स्मरन्।
 इन्द्रियान्विमूढात्मा मिथ्याचारः स उच्यते ॥

3.Halua(हळुआ ब्राह्मण)(agrarian)/Ayachak Brahmins( अयाचक ब्राह्मण)/Bhumihar Brahmins:-

Individuals who engage primarily in agriculture and cultivate their own fields are known as Halua. When individuals identify as both Halua by occupation and Brahmin by caste, they are referred to as Halua Brahmins. These individuals are characterized by their nobility, piety, prosperity, and often possess a warrior spirit within the Brahmin community.
Origin of ayachak Brahmin( अयाचक ब्राह्मण) Halua/Khandavayan/ Brahmin:-
Several years ago in India, a significant battle transpired against Kshatriya king Sahasrabahu, led by Bhagwan Parshuram, the son of Rishi Jamdagni. During this conflict, a considerable number of Brahmins from Aryavarta actively participated. Bhagwan Parshuram emerged victorious, prompting many Brahmins to shift their focus from their sacred duties of Shrauta/Srauta and Smriti. Instead, they turned to agriculture to become self-reliant, earning them the monikers of ayachak Brahmin, Khandavayan, or Halua Brahmin. Over time, these Brahmins, including the Bhumihar, Tyagi, Mahial, Galav, Chyavan or Chyavan Gaud, Chitpavan, Niyogi, Anavil, Carve, Rao, Hegde, Aiyar Brahmins, among others, adopted various names.

Known as Balaram gotri or Mahasthana Brahmins, they predominantly engage in agriculture or related businesses. These Brahmins actively participate in Shraadha ceremonies and contribute to temples and religious functions. Many are business-oriented, combining their prosperity with the cultivation of lands. A notable aspect is their affluence, with several among them being wealthy. A significant portion of this community migrated to other countries, with a notable presence in places like Mauritius, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, and elsewhere.

Gotra of Brahmins:-

The full affiliation of a Brahmins is consists of (1) Gotra, (2)
Sutra (vedanga/Kalpa), (3) Sakha, (4) Pravara.

 

Gotra:-

As per religious texts, Brahmins share direct and indirect familial bonds with the Saptarishis through the roles of Pita (father), Putra (son), Guru (teacher), and Shishya (student) within the Rishi Parampara (sage lineage). Consequently, Brahmins initially identified with distinguished rishis like Marichi, Atri,Angira, Pulaha, Pulastya, Kratu and Vasishtha, during the Svayambhuva Manvantara. Later, in the Vaivasvata Manvantara, they associated themselves with rishis such as Kashyapa, Bhardwaj, Angirasa, Atri, Gautam, Bhrigu, Vasishtha, collectively known as the Saptarishis. This early practice aimed to  identify  and categorize individuals, marking the origins of the Gotra concept.

The major Gotras were originally linked to the primary rishis, and over time, lines of descent from these rishis gave rise to numerous Gotras. These major Gotras were further divided into Ganas (subdivisions), and each Gana was then segmented into groups of families. Eventually, the term "Gotra" extended to both Ganas and sub-Ganas.

The expansion of Gotras occurred as descendants of the original Rishis established new family lineages through intermarriage with other sub-groups of the same caste. This was often inspired by another rishi, whose name they adopted as their own Gotra.

The Gotra and Pravara parampara hold significant importance in Brahmin families, observed during ceremonies such as Upnayan, Vivaha, Sandhya Vandana, and others. The system traces its roots to the original seven Sapta Rishis: Kashyapa, Atri, Vashista, Vishvamitra, Gautama, Jamadagni, and Bharadvaja. As the Brahmin community evolved, the Gotra system reflected the intricate web of lineages and interconnections among its members.

यज्ञो यज्ञ पुमांश् चैव यज्ञशो यज्ञ यज्ञभावनः।
यज्ञभुक् चेति पञ्चात्मा यज्ञेष्विज्यो हरिः स्वयं ।। 

In the Manvantara concept, the assembly of Saptarishis, or the seven great sages, undergoes a transformation with the commencement of each new Manvantara period.

In Hindu cosmology, a "Manvantara" is a unit of time that represents the reign of a specific Manu. The term is derived from two Sanskrit words: "Manu," who is a progenitor or the first human being in each cycle of creation, and "Antara," which means interval or period.

According to Hindu cosmology, the universe undergoes cyclical periods of creation and dissolution known as "Kalpas." Each Kalpa is divided into 14 Manvantaras, and each Manvantara is presided over by a specific Manu. The Manvantara is further divided into smaller units of time called "Chaturyugas" (four Yugas).

The current Manvantara is believed to be the seventh in the present Kalpa, and it is governed by Vaivasvata Manu. The next Manvantara, which is the eighth, is said to be governed by Savarni Manu.

The seven sages (Saptarishi) associated with this period are mentioned as Galava, Diptiman, Ashvatthama, Kripa, Rishyashringa, Vyasa, and Parashurama. Additionally, Bali, the son of Virochana, is destined to serve as the ruler of the heavenly abode, akin to the position of Indra in this future era.

 Each Manvantara is characterized by the presence of specific religious and cosmic events. The concept of Manvantara helps explain the cyclical nature of time and the repetitive creation and dissolution of the universe in Hindu cosmology.

The Chaturyugas within a Manvantara are:

1.Satya Yuga (Golden Age): Virtue reigns supreme, and the average human lifespan is very long.

2.Treta Yuga (Silver Age): The decline of virtue begins, and sacrifices are performed to uphold righteousness.

3.Dvapara Yuga (Bronze Age): Virtue continues to decrease, and the emphasis on rituals and ceremonies becomes more prominent.

4.Kali Yuga (Iron Age): Virtue is at its lowest point, and society becomes filled with strife, corruption, and moral decline.

According to various Hindu religious texts, the yugas are conventionally believed to have a lifespan of several hundred thousand years. Nevertheless, the real duration of the yugas experiences a notable decrease as a consequence of the sins committed within each yuga.

After the completion of one Manvantara, a new Manu takes charge, and the cycle continues until the end of the Kalpa, at which point a cosmic dissolution (Pralaya) occurs, and the cycle begins anew. The concept of Manvantara provides a framework for understanding the vast and cyclical nature of time in Hindu cosmology.

तिथिर्विष्णुस्तथा वारो नक्षत्रं विष्णुरेव च।

योगश्च करणं चैव सर्वं विष्णुमयं जगत्।।

The entirety of our solar system revolves around the central region of the Milky Way Galaxy, maintaining an average speed of 230 kilometers per second (828,000 kilometers per hour). This cosmic journey completes a full orbit around the Milky Way in approximately 230 million years ,a period that aligns with the current system of time measurement known as one "kalpa" in the context of Yuga (युग) gaṇanā ("counting").

गोत्र:-

गोत्र मोटे तौर पर उन लोगों के समूह को कहते हैं जिनका वंश एक मूल पुरुष पूर्वज से अटूट क्रम में जुड़ा है। व्याकरण के प्रयोजनों के लिये पाणिनि में गोत्र की परिभाषा है 'अपात्यम पौत्रप्रभ्रति गोत्रम्' (४.१.१६२), अर्थात 'गोत्र शब्द का अर्थ है बेटे के बेटे के साथ शुरू होने वाली (एक साधु की) संतान्। गोत्र, कुल या वंश की संज्ञा है जो उसके किसी मूल पुरुष के अनुसार होती है। गो अर्थात् इन्द्रियां, वहीं त्र से आशय है रक्षा करना, अत: गोत्र का एक अर्थ 'इन्द्रिय आघात से रक्षा करने वाले' भी होता है। 

Sutra:-

प्रतिष्ठित ऋषियों की शिक्षाओं को सूत्र कहा जाता है। प्रत्येक वेद का अपना सूत्र है। सामाजिक, नैतिक तथा शास्त्रानुकूल नियमों वाले सूत्रों को धर्म सूत्र कहते हैं, आनुष्ठानिक वालों को श्रौत सूत्र तथा घरेलू विधिशास्त्रों की व्याख्या करने वालों को गॄह् सूत्र कहा जाता है। सूत्र सामान्यतः पद्य या मिश्रित गद्य-पद्य में लिखे हुए हैं।
The profound insights of revered rishis, as found in the Vedas, are encapsulated in what are known as sutras. Each Veda possesses its own set of sutras. Among them, those sutras that delve into societal, ethical, and legal principles are termed Dharma sutras. Sutras dedicated to ceremonial practices are referred to as Srauta, while those addressing domestic rituals are designated as Grihya sutras. This categorization underscores the multifaceted nature of Vedic teachings, spanning from moral and legal guidelines to ceremonial and household rituals. The sutras of different Sakha people are as under;-

• Rigveda: Ashwalayana Shrauta and Grihya Sutra(Shakal Shakha)

• Shukla Yajurveda: Katyayana Shrauta and Paraskara Grihya(Kaanva Shakha)

• Samaveda: Drahyayana Shrauta and Gobhilya griha (Kauthuma Shakha)

• Atharvaveda: Vaitana Shrauta and Kaushika griha(Paippalada Shakha).

Sakha of Brahmins:-

तत्कर्म यन्न बन्धाय सा विद्या या विमुक्तये।
आयासायापरं कर्म विद्यान्या शिल्पनैपुणम्॥

The term "Sakha," derived from Sanskrit meaning "branch" or "limb," refers to a Hindu theological school focused on the study of specific Vedic texts or the traditional texts adhered to by that particular school. Brahmins underwent division into various Sakhas or branches, characterized by distinct interpretations and the adoption of Vedas. A person following a specific school or branch is referred to as a "Sakhin."
मूलवस्तु से निकले हुए विभाग अथवा अंग को शाखा कहते हैं - जैसे वृक्ष की शाखा। वैदिक साहित्य के संदर्भ में वैदिक शाखा शब्द से उन विशेष परंपराओं का बोध होता है जो गुरु-शिष्य-प्रणाली, देशविभाग, उच्चारण की भिन्नता, काल एवं विशेष परिस्थितिजन्य कारणों से चार वेदों के भिन्न-भिन्न पाटों के रूप में विकसित हुई

Pravara of Brahmins:-

In Brahmanical culture, it is believed that there are eight Gotrakarins or primary rishis in this Manvantara, from whom the other 49 or more Gotras have evolved or descended. The eight Gotrakarins are Angiras, Gautama, Bharadwaja, Vishvamitra, Vasistha, Kashyapa, Atri, and Agastya. All the remaining Gotras, apart from the Gotrakarins, are considered to be Pravaras.

प्रवर- अपनी कुल परम्परा के पूर्वजों एवं महान ऋषियों को प्रवर कहते हैं

List of Brahmin Gotras and Pravaras:-
The list of gotras and pravaras found in the Brahmin community of Hinduism are aprox 250.Some of them are as under :-Agastya,Atreya/Atri,Angirasa,Alambyayan,Badarayana,Bakshi,Bhalki,Bharadwaj,Bhargava,Bramhabhatt,Buddhi,Chyavana,Chikitasya,Dalabhya,Dhananjaya,Gaur,Garga,Gautama,Harita,Kankar,Koshish,Koshis,Kaushik,Kanva,Kapil,Kaundinya,Katyayana,Kashyapa,Kutsa,Lakhi,Lohita,Maitreya/Mitra,Mandavya,Pourugutsa,Pautamarshi,Parashara,Salankayana,Sankrithi,Savarna,Soral,Shandilya,Shukla,Shunak,Srivatsa,Suryadhwaja,Vadhoola,Vashistha,Vasudev,Vatsayana,Vishwamitra,Vishnuvardhan,Yaska etc.
Gotras for the unknown Persons.
For those who do not know their Gotras, either because the family lost knowledge of the same, or if a person became an orphan in childhood – the Gotra and Pravara of the family purohit become their Gotra.
आचार्यगोत्रप्रवरानभिज्ञस्तु द्विजः स्वयम् |
दत्त्वात्मानं तु कस्मैचित्तद्गोत्रप्रवरो भवेत् ||
Another solution given in the Shastras is to accept the Kashyapa Gotra since the Shrutis declare Kashyapa as the forefather of all humanity.
गोत्रस्यत्वपरिज्ञाने काश्यपं गोत्रमुच्यते |
यस्मादाह श्रुतिः सर्वाः प्रजाः कश्यपसंभवाः ||

Naming (नामकरण) of Brahmins:-

The process of giving a name to an infant in a ritual or ceremony is known as Naming (नामकरण). For Brahmin men, it is essential that their names are not only auspicious (शुभ/मंगलसूचक/सौभाग्यशाली) but also carry a second part and surname that signify happiness (आनन्द, खुशी/ प्रसन्नता सूचक). 

On the other hand, the names of Brahmin women should be not only pleasing and auspicious (शुभ) but also easy to pronounce. Importantly, these names should not imply anything inauspicious (अशुभ, भयानक), negative (नकारात्मक/ अभावात्मक), or be connected with power, wealth, or anything disreputable. The emphasis is on selecting names that reflect positivity, auspiciousness, and simplicity.

Rule of Upanayana of Brahmins: -

Upanayana, meaning "the sacred thread ceremony," is a traditional rite of passage signifying the acceptance of a student by a Guru. It involves bringing a young boy to his teacher (Acharya) to embark on the path of formal education. During Upanayana, a sacred thread, known as Yagnopavitam or Janeu, is ceremoniously placed around the left shoulder of the boy. This ritual holds great significance, especially for Brahmins.

The Yagnopavitam, composed of nine fibers, symbolically represents various deities:

Omkar

Vishvadevata (deity of the universe)

Agni (deity of fire)

Vayu (deity of air)

Som (deity of the moon)

Prajapati (deity of procreation)

Nag (serpent)

Pitar (ancestors)

Yama (deity of death)

The number of strands in the sacred thread holds significance based on the individual's life stage and circumstances. Bachelors wear sacred threads with 3 strands, married men wear 6 strands, and those whose parents have passed away wear 9 strands. The choice of strands reflects the individual's societal role and responsibilities.

सा विद्या या विमुक्तये

Typically, Upanayana is performed between the ages of 5 and 9. According to Apastamba Gryha Sutra, the upper age limit for Upanayana is 24 years. However, Gautama Gryha Sutra and other ancient texts state that there is no specific age limit. Individuals can undertake Upanayanam at any age when they feel ready to commence formal studies of the Vedas, emphasizing the flexible nature of this sacred ceremony.

LINK> 🔗जनेऊ या यज्ञोपवीत धारण विधि।

जनेऊ या यज्ञोपवीत धारण मंत्र।

ऊँ यज्ञोपवीतं परमं पवित्रं प्रजापतेर्यत्सहजं पुरस्तात्।

आयुष्यमग्रयं प्रतिमुंच शुभ्रं यज्ञोपवीतं बलमस्तु तेजः।।

 -(पारस्कर गृह्यसूत्र २/२/११)-ऋग्वेद

पुराना/जीर्ण जनेऊ /यज्ञोपवीत उतारने का मंत्र:

एतावद्दिन पर्यन्तं ब्रह्म त्वं धारितं मया।

जीर्णत्वात्वत्परित्यागो गच्छ सूत्र यथा सुखम्।।

Marriage rules of Brahmins:-

The marriage rules of Brahmins, like those of any other community, are influenced by cultural, religious, and societal norms. While practices may vary among different Brahmin subgroups and regions, some general guidelines are traditionally followed:

1. Endogamy:

Brahmins typically practice endogamy, marrying within their own caste or sub-caste. This is often seen as a way to preserve cultural and social identity.

2. Gotra System:

The gotra system, which identifies the ancestral lineage or clan of a person, is considered crucial in Brahmin marriages. It is customary for individuals of the same gotra to avoid marrying each other, as they are believed to be of common descent.

3. Horoscope Matching:

Horoscope matching, or Kundali Milan, is a prevalent practice in Brahmin marriages. Astrologers analyze the horoscopes of the prospective bride and groom to assess compatibility in various aspects such as health, wealth, and family.

4. Religious Compatibility:

Compatibility in religious beliefs and practices is highly valued. Brahmins often seek partners who share similar religious values, traditions, and devotion.

5. Ceremonial Rituals:

Marriage ceremonies among Brahmins are rich in Vedic rituals and traditions. The wedding typically involves the recitation of sacred hymns, fire rituals (agni karya), and the exchange of vows in the presence of a priest.

6. Dowry Practices:

While dowry practices are discouraged, in some regions, there may be symbolic gifts exchanged between families. However, the giving or accepting of dowry is generally looked down upon and is illegal in many places.

7. Arranged Marriages:

Arranged marriages are prevalent in Brahmin communities, where families play a significant role in matchmaking. Compatibility in terms of caste, education, family background, and financial status is often considered.

8. Saptapadi:

The Saptapadi, or seven steps, is a significant ritual in Brahmin weddings. The couple takes seven steps together, symbolizing their journey through life and the mutual responsibilities they undertake.

9. Ceremonial Purity:

Brahmin weddings emphasize ceremonial purity, and adherence to Vedic rituals is considered crucial to ensure the sanctity of the marriage.

10. Widow Remarriage:

Traditionally, widow remarriage was not widely accepted in Brahmin communities. However, societal attitudes have evolved, and widows remarrying is more accepted in modern times.

It's essential to note that practices can vary based on regional customs, personal beliefs, and individual choices. Over time, some communities may adapt or modify traditional practices while still maintaining the essence of Brahminical customs.

*Hindu marriage joins two individuals for life, so that they can pursue dharma (duty), Artha (possessions), kama (physical desires), and moksha (ultimate spiritual release) together. It is a union of two individuals as husband and wife and is recognized by law.

तीर्थ व्रतोद्यापन यज्ञकर्म मया सहैव प्रियवयं कुर्या;
वामांगमायामि तदा त्वदीयं ब्रवीति- वाक्यं- प्रथमं कुमारी ।

It is common practice in preparation for Hindu marriage to inquire about the kula-gotra (meaning clan lineage) of the bride and groom before approving the marriage. Marriages within the gotra ('sagotra' marriages) are not permitted under the rule of exogamy in the traditional matrimonial system. The compound word 'sagotra' is a union of the words 'sa' and 'gotra', where 'sa' means same or similar. People within the gotra are regarded as siblings and marrying such a person would be thought of as taboo. There are two kinds of gotra parampara(tradition) among Brahmins.

1. Guru –Sishya- Rishi Parampara.

2. Pita- Putra- Rishi parampara.

When it is Guru sishya-rishi-parampara and a half or more than half of the rishis are the same in both bride and grooms gotras then marriage is not acceptable. If it is Pita Putra-Rishi- parampara and only one rishi matches in bride and grooms gotras then marriage is Strictly restricted/ unacceptable.

जीवनम अवस्थात्रये मम पालनां कुर्यात: वामांगंयामि तदा त्वदीयं ब्रवीति -कन्या वचनं तृ्तीयं ।

According to the Manusmriti, an ancient Sanskrit legal text, it is permissible for a young unmarried Brahmin woman to marry a Brahmin man (Twice-born men) of the same Gotra under certain conditions. Specifically, she should not have a Sapinda relationship with the prospective groom on the mother's side, and there should be no familial connection on the father's side within the same family. Manusmriti thus provides clear guidelines on the validity of marriage within the same Gotra, contingent upon meeting the specified conditions.

The Hindu Marriage Act, 1955.

The term "sapinda" refers to a concept in Hindu law that is relevant to the prohibition of marriage within a certain degree of relationship. The Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, outlines the rules regarding sapinda relationships in Section 5. According to this section, a marriage may be considered void if it violates the sapinda relationship rules.

The sapinda relationship is based on the idea of prohibited degrees of relationship, and it applies to both lineal ascendants and descendants. The rules are as follows:

Sapinda Relationship: A person is said to be a sapinda of another if they are related to each other by blood or by a line of ascent or descent within the prohibited degrees.

Prohibited Degrees: According to Hindu law, a person cannot marry within a certain range of relationships, known as the sapinda relationship. The prohibited degrees include three degrees on the mother's side and five degrees on the father's side.

Three Degrees on the Mother's Side: In the case of lineal ascendants, a person cannot marry within three degrees, i.e., within the third generation upwards from the mother.

Five Degrees on the Father's Side: In the case of lineal ascendants, a person cannot marry within five degrees, i.e., within the fifth generation upwards from the father.

A marriage that contravenes the sapinda relationship rules is considered void under the Hindu Marriage Act, and it may be annulled. It's important to note that these rules are specific to Hindu marriages and may not be applicable to marriages under other personal laws in India. 

चत्वार्याहुः सहस्राणि वर्षाणां तत्कृतं युगम्।
 तस्य तावच्छती सन्ध्या सन्ध्यांशश्च तथाविधः।।
 इतरेषु ससन्ध्येषु ससन्ध्यांशेषु च त्रिषु।
एकापायेन वर्तन्ते सहस्राणि शतानि च।।

मनुस्मृति के अनुसार सात पीढ़ी बाद सगापन खत्म हो जाता है अर्थात सात पीढ़ी बाद गोत्र का मान बदल जाता है और आठवी पीढ़ी के पुरुष के नाम से नया गोत्र आरम्भ होता है।लेकिन गोत्र की सही गणना का पता न होने के कारण हिन्दू लोग लाखो हजारो वर्ष पहले पैदा हुए पूर्वजो के नाम से ही अज्ञानतावश अपना गोत्र चला रहे है जिससे वैवाहिक जटिलताएं उतपन्न हो रही हैं।

Festivals of Brahmins/Brahman:-
The main festival of the Brahmins are, Janmashtami, Shiv Ratri, Holi, Deepavali, Dashera, Durga Puja, Laxmi Puja, Saraswati Puja, Makar Sankranti, Pongal, etc

 

Surname(उपनाम/कुलनाम ) and Title(उपाधि/पदवी):-

Historically, surnames evolved as a way to sort people into groups - by occupation, place of origin, clan affiliation, patronage, parentage, adoption, physical characteristics, etc. Surnames (उपनाम/कुलनाम )and titles (उपाधि/पदवी)or decorations used along with the proper names commonly added at the end of the names - are either genealogical or professional and sometimes topographical. The genealogical surname has been in use from generation to generation and is generally family names some of which may even have been personal names. Professional names have also been adopted as family names and are regularly used as surnames.
It has been a practice for quite a few centuries to award titles (उपाधि/पदवी)to persons who occupy positions of distinction in intelligence, learning, wealth, honor, etc. Persons who have rendered meritorious service to the country have also been awarded titles that have gone down from generation to generation and thus got absorbed as family names or surnames. Indian history from pre-Mughal days has shown that the ruling Hindu Kings had awarded titles to persons and families for either meritorious service to the country or for leadership in society. This practice has been followed by the Pathan and the Mughal rulers and by their successors, the British as well. Even in independent India, the Presidential awards on Republic day are a continuation of the old practice of honoring persons for their service to the country.
Titles:-
Some titles were given to Brahmins according to their work, place of living, and other social strata. These titles were given to the Brahmins either by King or by his feudatory kings or organizations as punishment or reward. In course of time, this title became the surname, and the subsequent generations inherited it.

 
The surname of Brahmins/Brahman in India.
The Surnames of Brahman in India are more than a thousand; some popular surnames are as under.Popular surnames of Gaur Brahmins are Kapil, Tiwari, Kaushik,Kanv, Sharma, Sandali, Bharadwaj and so on. Popular surnames of Telugu Brahmins in Andhra Pradesh:- Cheedella, Mukkavilli, Bikkavilli, Vepa, Instala. Sistla, Sista, Vedula. Rambatla, Rangabatla, Mushinuri, Surnames of Maithil Brahmins in Bihar and Uttarpradesh:- Jha,  Mishra  Pathak, Choudhary, Rai. The Popular surnames of Utkala  Brahman in Odisha:-  Nanda, Kar, Dash, Mishra, Panda, Mahapatra, Acharya, Tripathy, Bhatt-Mishra, Patra, Pati, Rath, Satapathy, Sarangi, Chaini  Patta Joshi, Joshi, Padhi, Pati, Pani, Purohit, Pujari, Bakshi, etc. Utkal Brahmins in West Bengal- Mahanty /Mahanti, Hota, Singha Chaudhary, Singha Babu/Sinha Babu, Singha Mahapatra, Satpathy, Satpati, Sannigrahi, Mahapatra, Mishra, Nayak, Nath, Tripathy, Tewary, Dubey, Panda, Pathak, Pyne, Pati, Patra, Goswami, Dandapath, Das, Dubey, Praharraj, Kar, Rath, etc. Bengali Brahmins in West Bengal, Tripura, Assam, Bangladesh hold surnames -  Acharya,  Banerjee/ Bandopadhyay, Bhattacharjee, Chatterjee, Chakraborty, Ganguly, Ghatak, Roy, Misra, Mukherjee, Nath, Munshi, Debnath, Shukla/Shakul, Ray Chaudhuri, etc Assamese Brahmins surnames are- Acharjee /Acharya, Barua, Bhattacharjee, Goswami, Sharma/Sarma, Thakur/Borthakur, etc. Popular surnames of Kashmiri Brahmins surnames are Dattatreya, Koul, Nagari,jinsi, Jalali, watal, etc. Punjabi Brahmins surnames are Jaitly, Trikha, Kumoria, Jinghan, Mohla, Datt or Dutt, Bali, Bhimwal, Chhibber, Lau, Mohan and Vaid, jhingan, Shorey, Punj, Rampal, Modgil, Kapil, Kaushal,kanav, lakhanpal, tejpal, sehajpal, Bhardwaj, Attri, Devgan, Bhaskar, Mannan, Biala, Agnihotri, Dwivedi, Davesar, etc. Bihari Brahmins hold the surname - Shukla, Mishra, Kissoon, Bhardwaj, Choudhary, Jha, Bhatt, Kanojia, Jyotishi (Jharkhand & Odisha).

Krishna Bhajan in Kashmiri language

The popular surname of Gujarati Brahmins is Thakar, Shukla, Bhatt, Vyas, Derasari, Desai, Dwivedi, Dixit, Joshi, Naik / Nayak, Pathak, Raval, Tripathi, Trivedi, Vora, Pattani, Mankad / Mankodi / Mankar, Yodh, Yagnik, Pandya, Joshipura, Adhvaryu, Kaileyas, Bhaglani, Pingal, and Lakhani, etc. The names Kulkarni, Deshpande, Deshmukh ,Joshi,Achariya,Agnihotri,Bhargav,Deodhar,Dixit (दीक्षित),Gadakari,Gaikwad,Kandharkar,Naik,Pandit,Pathak,Patil,Rajguru,Saraf.Upadhyay, are very common among  Deshastha Brahmins of Maharastra & northern Karnataka.  The popular surname of Rajasthani Brahmins is Bhardwaj, Bhargava, Dadhich, Gaur, Upreti, Gujar Gaur, Kaushik, Pushkarna, Vashishta, Jangid. Popular surname of Garhwali Brahmins of Uttarakhand  are: Kothiyal, Dobriyal, Baurai, Dabral, Kala, Gaur, Mamgain,Jakhmola,Amoli, Nainwal,Raturi, Jaguri, Benjwal, Gairola,Kabthiyal,Rayal, Deoli, Semwal, Deondi, Dyundi/Dyondi, Goswami, Dwivedi, Baloni, Anthwal, Chamola, Kediyal, Kagdiyal, Binjola, Kandpal, Khali,Dhoundiyal, Chamoli, Devshali, Joshi, Dangwal, Malguri, Jhildiyal, Dobriyal,Doval, Thapliyal, Thaledi, Kandwal, Hatwal, Dholakhandi/ Dhaulakhandi, Lakhera, Dabral, Jakhmola, Rudola, Jamloki, Dhyani, Painuly (Panuly), Pant, Sati, Kimothi, Dimri, Nawani, Bahuguna, Chaukiyal, Khanduri, Godiyal, Pandey, Tiwari,Shailwal, Joshi, Naudiyal/Nauriyal, Nautiyal, Badoni, Raturi, Badola, Barthwal, Mamgain, Chandola, Upreti / Uprety, Bhatt, Pathak, Sarola, Khantwal, Kukreti, Balooni, Bandooni, Budakoti, Kotnala, Naithani, Dhasmana, Juyal, Dobhal, Duklan, Bijalwan, Maithani, Sundriyal, Dandriyal, Maikhuri, Kothari, Sareera, Baukhandi, Kapruwan, Pokhriyal, Todaria/Todariya, Babulkar, Karnatak, Gauniyal, Jadli, Ghildiyal, Ghanshyala, Sundali, Saklani, Devrani, Kulasari/Kulashri, Balodi, Gaur, Belwal, Baunthiyal, Khughshal/Kugshal/Kukshal, Hindwan, Benjwal,Kimothi,Deorari, Jugran, Kharkwal, Panthari, Vashistha (Maikota),Upadhya,Tripathi,kundliya, Maindola, kaktwan, khansli petwal bhadri, Kanswal,Kestwal, Bachheti and many more.Surname of Chitpavan/Kokanastha  Brahmins of Maharastra:-Abhyankar ,Agarkar ,Agashe ,Akhawe ,Apte,Athavale,Achari ,Avalaskar,Achwal,Bade,Bagalkar,Bal,Balkar,Bagul,Battu,Bakshi (Origin: Achari), Bam, Bapat ,Bapaye ,Barave ,Barve,Bath,Bavdekar,Bedekar,Behere,Bende,Bendre - also found in "Deshasthas" & "CKP",Berthe,Bhagwat - also found in Deshasthas and Karadas, Bhardwaj ,Bhave ,Bhawe ,Bhat ,Bhate,Bhatkhande,Bhide (Origin: Bhadbhoke), Bhogle ,Bhoir ,Bhuskute,Bobde,Bodas,Bade (Origin: Gokhale) ,Chandanshive ,Chandratre - found in Yajurveda ,Chitale ,Cholkar ,Chaphekar,Chhatre - also found in Deshasthas ,Chiplunkar (Origin : Chitale),Dabholkar,Dorugade - From 'Kolhapur' and 'Maratha' Community ,Dabke, Date/Datye/Datey,Damle,Dandekar - also found in Deshasthas,also exists in Bene Israel Jews from India,Datar - also found in Deshasthas ,Datir ,Dangare ,Deodhar ,Desai,Devikar - also found in "Deshasthas",Devasthali- also found in Karhade brahmins,Dhamankar- also found in Karhade Brahmins,Dhamdhere - also found in Deshasthas and Maratha Community,Dharap,Dharu ,Divekar-also exists in Bene Israel Jews from India,Dixit - also found in Deshasthas,Dongre,Deval,Daur/Dawoor - from India (Mumbai), generally of Hindu-Agri community, working on sea shores to manufacture salt, therefore named as 'Agri'.,Dindorkar,Deshpandey,Dharmadhikari,Dumane - from Maratha community Devrukhkar(Tilak) ,Kokansth, Ghime, Gadre,Garg,Gadgil,Gangal,Ganpule/Ganapule,Ganu,Gaitonde - also found in Saraswats, Ghaisas, Ghanekar ,Ghangrekar ,Ghangurde,Gharpure,Ghule,Ghorpade - adopted by "Ghorpade"  family near Satara and Ichalkaranji. originally "Patwardhan", Godbole, Godse - also found in Deshasthas, Gogate, Gokhale, Gole - also found in Deshasthas, Gondhalekar, Gore - also found in Deshasthas and Marathas, Goray, Gorey - also found in Deshasthas, Govindye, Govitrikar, Gaonkar - also found in karhade, Garkhedkar,  etc. Kharade Brahmins ( Maharashtra &Goa) surnames are Mulye,Dhamankar, Upadhye, Alawani, Dhore, Naware, Naphade, Hardikar, Athalye, Paradkar, Moghe, Gune, Lagvankar, Palsule, Kher, Bhadbhade, Mahajani, Sapre, Khanwalkar, Tambe, Tembe, Valame, Shahane, Mainkar, Agte, Tikekar, Bhatwadekar, Pandit, Kirloskar, Bhadkamkar, Thakur, Kakirde, Ambekar etc. Konkani Brahmins surnames such as Prabhu, Kamat, etc.Popular surnames of Sindhi Brahmins are Juni, Kanaya, Bhardwaj, Kotai, Tewani, Tewani, Dhardai, Moorjani, Dhaklai, Manek, Rajasthan. The popular surname of Brahmins of Uttar Pradesh is -Dwivedi, Trivedi, Chaturvedi, Dubey, Chaubey, Tripathi, Tiwari, Mishra, Joshi, Pandey, Shukla,  Pathak, Agnihotri, Tyagi, Ojha, Bharadwaj.Sharma. Popular surnames of Surname Kerala Brahmins/Malayali Brahmins are Namboothiri / Nampoorithiri, Moosathu, Unni, Kurukkal, Nambissan, Plappally, Potti.Tamil Brahmins Surname is Iyer / Aiyar,Iyengar.Jangid Brahmin surnames-Jangid, Sharma, etc.Dogra Brahmins surnames are- Sharma,Badyal,Baru ,Bamotra ,Basgotra ,Basotra ,Beyal ,Bhardwaj,Jamwal, Khajuria,Padgotra ,Padha ,Pangotra ,Raina(Rein),Targotra ,Sadotra ,Sanyal ,Uppal  etc.

Surname, Caste & Creed, and Self-Pride:

We should neither take pride nor feel sorrow over our surnames, titles, caste, or creed, as these are only temporary labels. In this life, I may be a Brahmin; in the next, I could be a Kshatriya. Today, I might be an Indian, and in another life, I could be European or African. At present, I am human; tomorrow, I could be a demon. In one life, I might be an animal, and in another, a divine being. Therefore, we should not cling to any particular identity or status.

Instead, we should focus on cultivating virtues such as truth, austerity, compassion, charity, purity, love, devotion, and kindness. These qualities define our essence far more deeply than any label or rank ever could.

The sacred text Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam (Bhāgavata Purāṇa) 7.11.35 reminds us of this profound truth:

यस्य यल्लक्षणं प्रोक्तं पुंसो वर्णाभिव्यञ्जकम्।

यदन्यत्रापि द‍ृश्येत तत्तेनैव विनिर्दिशेत्॥

"Whatever characteristics are described as the signs of a particular varna (social class), if those characteristics are found in another, one should be designated by that same classification." 

The population of Brahmins:-
As per reports of 2014 the total Brahmin population in India is around 5% and which is around 6.5 crores. Brahmans are the most widespread castes in India with a significant presence in every state i. e.- Andhra Pradesh (Hyderabad), Arunachal Pradesh (Itanagar), Assam (Dispur), Bihar (Patna), Chhattisgarh (Raipur), Goa (Panaji), Gujarat (Gandhinagar), Haryana (Chandigarh), Himachal Pradesh (Shimla), Jammu & Kashmir, Jharkhand (Ranchi), Karnataka (Bangalore), Kerala (Thiruvananthapuram), Madhya Pradesh (Bhopal), Maharashtra (Mumbai), Manipur (Imphal), Meghalaya (Shillong), Mizoram (Aizawl), Nagaland (Kohima), Odisha (Bhubaneshwar), Punjab (Chandigarh), Rajasthan (Jaipur), Sikkim (Gangtok), Tamil Nadu (Chennai), Telangana (Hyderabad), Tripura (Agartala), Uttarakhand (Dehradun), Uttar Pradesh (Lucknow), West Bengal (Kolkata)
and union territory of the country i.e. -Andaman and Nicobar Islands (Port Blair), Chandigarh (Chandigarh), The Government of NCT of Delhi (Delhi), Dadra and Nagar Haveli (Silvassa), Daman and Diu (Daman), Lakshadweep (Kavaratti), Puducherry (Puducherry).
The population of Brahmins in various Indian states:-

As of 2014, Brahmins constitute approximately five percent of the total population in India. The distribution of Brahmin population varies across different states, with notable concentrations in certain regions. The percentages provided below indicate the approximate proportion of Brahmins relative to the total Hindu population in each state:

Uttarakhand: 20%

Himachal Pradesh: 20%

Uttar Pradesh: 11%

Delhi: 10%

Maharashtra: 10%

Rajasthan: 8-10%

Gujarat: 9%

West Bengal: 8%

Chhattisgarh: 7%

Andhra Pradesh: 4-5%

Karnataka: 4%

Tamil Nadu: 3%

Odisha: 9%

It's important to note that these percentages are approximate and may have changed since 2014 due to factors such as population growth, migration, and social dynamics. Additionally, variations may exist within different regions of each state. The data provides a general overview of the distribution of Brahmin population in various Indian states as of the specified year.

Food habits of Brahmans:-

यज्ञशिष्टाशिनः सन्तो मुच्यन्ते सर्वकिल्बिषैः ।
भुज्यते ते त्वघं पापा ये पचन्त्यात्मकारणात् ॥

In the Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam, Canto 3, chapter 16, Lord Mahā Viṣṇu has said that all Brahmins remain content by dedicating the fruits of their actions to me. When they eat, fully content with every morsel, recalling me, I, too, taste their food and it immensely pleases me to witness the devotion on the faces of those altruistic Brahmins. However, even as I accept offerings from the sacrificer's sacred fire, I do not experience the same satisfaction. This statement from the Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam provides insightful guidance on the dietary practices of Brahmins.

The food habits of Brahmins are primarily influenced by Hindu dietary principles, which often emphasize vegetarianism. However, it's essential to recognize that practices can vary among Brahmins based on regional, cultural, and individual differences. Here are some common aspects of the food habits of Brahmins:

Vegetarianism:

The majority of Brahmins adhere to a vegetarian diet, abstaining from the consumption of meat, poultry, and eggs. This choice is rooted in Hindu beliefs regarding the sanctity of life and the principles of non-violence (ahimsa).

Avoidance of Certain Foods:

Some Brahmins may follow specific dietary restrictions beyond vegetarianism. This can include avoiding certain vegetables like garlic and onions, as well as certain varieties of gourds. The rationale for these exclusions may vary and could be based on cultural or personal beliefs.

Restrictions on Masoor Dal:

In some Brahmin communities, there is a tradition of avoiding Masoor dal (red lentils). This practice may be rooted in specific cultural or regional customs.

Milk Products:

While Brahmins are generally vegetarian, many do consume milk and milk products. Dairy is considered a vital part of the diet, providing essential nutrients.

Pescetarianism in Specific Regions:

In certain geographical areas, such as mountainous, desert, or coastal regions where agricultural produce might be scarce, some Brahmins may include fish in their diet. This practice is more prevalent among communities facing challenges in procuring fresh vegetables.

Regional Variances:

Food habits can significantly vary among Brahmin communities in different regions of India. For example, South Indian Brahmins may have distinct culinary traditions compared to their North Indian counterparts.

It's crucial to recognize that individual choices within Brahmin communities may differ, and some Brahmins may choose to follow a more relaxed approach to dietary restrictions. Additionally, the interpretation and adherence to these dietary practices can be influenced by personal beliefs, family traditions, and exposure to diverse cultural influences. Overall, while vegetarianism is a common thread, the specific food habits of Brahmins can be diverse and dynamic.

सनकादि ऋषियों का एक दिब्य एवं चमत्कारी

 मंत्र- हरि शरणम

Work of Brahmins:-

The work of Brahmins encompasses various duties and responsibilities, with a strong emphasis on intellectual pursuits, spiritual practices, and the preservation of Vedic knowledge. The six main activities of Brahmins, ranked from the highest to the lowest, are traditionally considered as follows:

Teaching (अध्यापन):

The highest duty of a Brahmin is considered to be imparting knowledge. This involves teaching the Vedas, scriptures, philosophy, and other sacred texts to students and the community. The role of a teacher is highly revered in Brahminical tradition.

Studying the Vedas (अध्ययन):

Brahmins are expected to engage in the continuous study of the Vedas throughout their lives. This involves deep contemplation, memorization, and understanding of the sacred texts to ensure the preservation and transmission of Vedic knowledge.

Offering Ritual Sacrifices (यज्ञ):

Performing rituals and yajnas (sacrifices) is a significant aspect of Brahminical duties. The rituals are conducted with precision, following the guidelines outlined in the Vedas. These ceremonies are believed to maintain cosmic order and ensure the well-being of the individual and society.

Officiating at Rituals for Others (याजक):

Brahmins often officiate and lead religious ceremonies and rituals for others in the community. This can include events such as weddings, funerals, and other rites of passage. The Brahmin's role is crucial in maintaining the sanctity of these ceremonies.

Giving Gifts (दान):

Brahmins are encouraged to engage in acts of charity and generosity. Giving gifts, whether material or in the form of knowledge, is seen as a virtuous deed. This practice aligns with the concept of dharma (righteous duty) and contributes to the welfare of society.

Accepting Gifts (प्रतिग्रह):

While accepting gifts is considered the lowest of the six activities, it is not devoid of significance. Brahmins are allowed to receive gifts from others as a means of sustaining themselves and their families. However, this should be done with humility and without attachment.

These activities collectively reflect the multifaceted role of Brahmins in society, emphasizing the pursuit of knowledge, the performance of rituals, and the promotion of ethical conduct. The duties of Brahmins are deeply rooted in the principles of dharma and are designed to contribute to the spiritual and social well-being of the community.

यदा यदा हि धर्मस्य ग्लानिर्भवति भारत।
अभ्युत्थानमधर्मस्य तदात्मानं सृजाम्यहम्॥
परित्राणाय साधूनां विनाशाय च दुष्कृताम्।
धर्मसंस्थापनार्थाय सम्भवामि युगे युगे॥

अहङ्कारं बलं दर्पं कामं क्रोधं च संश्रिताः।
 मामात्मपरदेहेषु प्रद्विषन्तोऽभ्यसूयकाः।।
Bhagavad Gita: Chapter 16, Verse 18

Vedas & Brahmins:

It is the sacred duty of Brahmins to uphold the tradition of the Vedas, a principle emphasized by Maharshi Patanjali in his work, the Maha Bhashyam or Mahabhasya. Patanjali underscores that Brahmins are tasked with studying the Vedas and their ancillaries selflessly, without any expectation of personal gain. This duty is viewed as a mission, a commitment to learning and teaching the Vedas for the greater spiritual and societal good.

The Vedas, representing the foundational texts of Hinduism, are safeguarded and propagated by four principal mathas established by Adi Shankaracharya in different regions of India. Each matha, headed by a "Shankaracharya," is responsible for the preservation and dissemination of a specific Veda:

Govardhana Pitham:

Custodian of the Rig Veda, this matha is situated in Puri, Odisha. Its guiding principle is 'प्रज्ञानं ब्रह्म' (Consciousness is Brahman).

Sringeri Sarada Pitham:

This matha preserves the Yajur Veda and is located in Sringeri, Karnataka, on the banks of the Tunga River. The guiding principle is 'अहं ब्रह्मास्मि' (I am Brahman).

Dwaraka Pitham:

Custodian of the Sama Veda, this matha is situated in Dwarka, Gujarat. It is also known as the Kalika Matha, representing the western direction. The guiding principle is 'तत्त्वमसि' (Thou art That).

Jyotirmatha or Joshi Math:

This matha, located in Uttarakhand, is responsible for the Atharva Veda. It is the Uttaramnaya matha or northern monastery. The guiding principle is 'अयमात्मा ब्रह्म' (This Self is Brahman).

These mathas play a vital role in the continuation of Vedic traditions, offering a center for learning, study, and spiritual guidance. The guiding principles reflect the core teachings of each Veda and the philosophical underpinnings associated with them. The commitment to preserving and imparting Vedic knowledge underscores the enduring role of Brahmins in upholding the cultural and spiritual heritage of India.

Activities that are forbidden to Brahmins.

In traditional Hindu society, Brahmins are expected to adhere to certain ethical and occupational guidelines outlined in ancient texts, such as the Manusmriti. While interpretations and practices may vary, there are general restrictions on certain activities for Brahmins. Some of the activities that are traditionally forbidden or discouraged for Brahmins include:

Crafting Weapons:

Brahmins are discouraged from engaging in the crafting of weapons. However, they may do so for self-defense purposes only. The emphasis is on non-violence, and Brahmins are expected to avoid contributing to harm or conflict.

Slaughtering Animals:

Brahmins are traditionally prohibited from directly participating in the slaughter of animals. This aligns with the principle of ahimsa (non-violence), a core tenet of Hindu ethics.

Manufacturing or Selling Poisons:

Brahmins are discouraged from manufacturing or selling poisons. This restriction is in line with the ethical principle of avoiding activities that cause harm or destruction.

Trapping Wildlife:

Engaging in activities that involve the trapping or harming of wildlife is generally discouraged for Brahmins. This aligns with the broader theme of respecting and preserving all forms of life.

Occupations Associated with Death:

Certain occupations directly associated with death, such as those involving handling corpses or working in cremation grounds, are traditionally avoided by Brahmins. This is in keeping with the idea of maintaining ritual purity.

It's important to note that interpretations and adherence to these guidelines can vary among Brahmin communities and individuals. Additionally, the Manusmriti and other ancient texts are subject to different interpretations, and there are diverse perspectives within Hinduism regarding the specific duties and restrictions for Brahmins.

In contemporary times, many Brahmins may not strictly adhere to all these traditional guidelines, and there is considerable diversity in how individuals and communities interpret and practice these principles based on personal beliefs, cultural context, and societal changes.

Present /Current situation of Brahmins in India:-

Following India's independence, the government classified its citizens into four distinct categories: General, Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribes, and OBC (Other Backward Castes). Each of these categories is entitled to reservation benefits in government jobs and educational opportunities, with the exception of the General category. This system has presented significant challenges for Brahmins, who are categorized as General. Despite their strong work ethic, they have encountered obstacles in achieving success due to the caste-based reservation system.

Brahmin students often find themselves falling behind in academics and facing difficulties securing employment. Many Brahmins reside in rural areas and lack the financial means to relocate to larger cities. Even if they possess the capability to take on small jobs, their ethical beliefs sometimes deter them from doing so. Consequently, they are experiencing economic hardships, making them even more disadvantaged than many of India's underprivileged populations. This predicament has led to the emergence of a new generation of Brahmins seeking alternative opportunities.

In a significant development on January 7, 2019, the Government of India took steps to address the needs of "economically weaker sections of the population who do not benefit from existing reservation schemes." The government decided to amend the Constitution to provide a 10 percent reservation for the economically weaker sections (EWS) of the General category in direct recruitment for government positions and admission to higher education institutions. A gazette notification, signed by the Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, confirmed this change, which came into effect on January 14, 2019. This affirmative action offers a glimmer of hope for economically disadvantaged Brahmins in India. In the current circumstances, Brahmins are facing challenges in maintaining their religious practices.

Brahmins and their practices:-

Brahmins are a prominent social and intellectual class in Hinduism, traditionally associated with priestly duties, scholarship, and the preservation of sacred knowledge. It's essential to understand that practices can vary among Brahmins based on regional, sectarian, and family traditions. Here is a general overview of some religious practices commonly associated with Brahmins:

Vedic Rituals and Ceremonies:

1.Yajnas and Homas: Brahmins often perform elaborate Vedic rituals involving the chanting of mantras and the offering of oblations into the sacred fire. Yajnas and homas are considered important for maintaining cosmic order and seeking divine blessings.

Samskaras: Brahmins are involved in various life-cycle ceremonies, known as samskaras, including ceremonies for birth, naming, initiation (upanayana), marriage, and death. These rituals are performed with precision and adhere to specific scriptural guidelines.

Temple Worship and Pujas:

2.Deity Worship: Brahmins may engage in regular worship of deities at home or in temples. This involves performing pujas, making offerings, and reciting prayers. The choice of deity may vary among Brahmin families and individuals.

Festivals: Brahmins actively participate in Hindu festivals, celebrating events like Diwali, Navaratri, and others. Temples play a central role during festivals, with Brahmins often taking part in the organization and performance of special rituals.

Scriptural Studies and Teaching:

3.Vedic Studies: Brahmins traditionally engage in the study of Vedic texts, including the Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda. They may undergo rigorous education to become proficient in the recitation and interpretation of these scriptures.

Teaching and Scholarly Pursuits: Many Brahmins historically served as teachers and scholars, passing down knowledge from one generation to the next. The pursuit of intellectual and spiritual knowledge is considered a sacred duty.

Pilgrimages:

4.Holy Journeys: Brahmins often undertake pilgrimages to sacred places, such as Varanasi, Prayagraj, Rishikesh, and other revered locations. Pilgrimages are seen as a means of spiritual purification and gaining blessings from sacred sites.

Vegetarianism and Dietary Practices:

5.Vegetarian Diet: Many Brahmins follow a vegetarian diet as a part of their religious and cultural practices. The principle of ahimsa (non-violence) is a significant influence on their dietary choices.

Cultural and Artistic Contributions:

5.Classical Arts: Brahmins have historically contributed significantly to classical arts, including music, dance, and literature. Many traditional art forms have religious and philosophical themes deeply rooted in Hindu culture.

It's important to note that the practices mentioned above are generalizations, and there is diversity within the Brahmin community. Individual beliefs, adherence to specific sects or traditions, and geographical locations can influence the religious practices of Brahmins. Additionally, in the contemporary context, Brahmins may interpret and practice their religious traditions in various ways.

"Bhakti" and "Brahmins"

"Bhakti" and "Brahmin" are terms rooted in Hinduism, representing different aspects of the religion.

Bhakti:

Definition: Bhakti refers to the devotional aspect of Hinduism, emphasizing a personal and loving devotion to a chosen deity. It is a path to spiritual realization through love, faith, and surrender to the divine. Devotees, known as bhaktas, cultivate a deep, emotional connection with their chosen deity, seeking union with the divine through love and devotion.

Practices: Bhakti is expressed through various practices such as prayer, singing hymns, attending religious gatherings, and performing rituals. The Bhagavad Gita, a sacred Hindu scripture, discusses different paths to spiritual realization, and Bhakti Yoga (the path of devotion) is one of them.

Brahmin:

Definition: Brahmins are a varna (social class) in Hinduism traditionally associated with priestly and scholarly duties. The term "Brahmin" is also used more broadly to refer to individuals who belong to this social class. In the traditional varna system, Brahmins were considered the highest caste and were responsible for performing religious rituals, preserving sacred knowledge, and teaching scriptures.

Duties: Traditionally, Brahmins were expected to study and teach the Vedas (ancient sacred texts), perform rituals, and guide others in matters of dharma (righteousness) and spiritual knowledge. Brahmins are traditionally expected to adhere to one of the nine paths of devotion, known as Navadha Bhakti.

सुखदुक्खे समान कृतवा लभलाभौ जयाजयौ
 ततो युधाय युज्यस्व निवम पापमवाप्स्यसि।

The idea that devotion or "bhakti" is considered one of the easiest paths to achieve a connection with the divine is a common belief in various religious and spiritual traditions. Bhakti is a Sanskrit term that translates to "devotion" or "love," and it is often associated with a personal and emotional connection to a higher power or deity.

In Hinduism, for example, bhakti is considered one of the main paths to spiritual realization, alongside paths such as karma yoga (the path of selfless action) and jnana yoga (the path of knowledge). Devotees who follow the bhakti path often emphasize surrender, love, and a deep connection to their chosen deity. Through prayer, rituals, and a loving relationship with the divine, practitioners believe they can attain spiritual enlightenment and unity with God.

Similarly, in other religious traditions and spiritual practices, the concept of love and devotion to a higher power is fundamental. Christianity, Islam, Sikhism, and many other faiths place a significant emphasis on love, surrender, and devotion to God as a means of drawing closer to the divine.

It's important to note that different individuals may resonate with different paths, and what works for one person may not work for another. Some may find a deep connection through meditation, others through knowledge and contemplation, and yet others through selfless service. Ultimately, the concept of the "easiest" way to achieve a connection with the divine can vary based on individual temperament, beliefs, and personal experiences.

मनुष्याणां सहस्रेषु कश्चिद्यतति सिद्धये ।

 यततामपि सिद्धानां कश्चिन्मां वेत्ति तत्त्वतः ॥

Brahmins & India's changing economy & demography:-

India stands as one of the most densely populated nations globally, with over one-sixth of the world's inhabitants residing within its borders. Projections indicate that India's population is expected to reach a staggering 1.6 billion by 2050, underlining a growth rate of 1.2%. Notably, more than half of India's population is under 25 years old, and over 65% are below the age of 35. This demographic profile has prompted discussions about India's potential ascent as an emerging global powerhouse.

Prominent economic consultancies, including S&P Global and Morgan Stanley, have suggested that India's economy could claim the third position worldwide by 2030-2031. Furthermore, a report titled "The World in 2050" by London-based consulting firm PwC (PriceWaterhouseCoopers) forecasts that India's GDP, in terms of purchasing power parity, may surpass that of the United States by 2040, positioning India as the world's largest economy after China. However, the rapid population growth in India has raised concerns regarding the likelihood of widespread unemployment and political instability.

India operates as a vibrant democracy where the populace plays a pivotal role in shaping the nation's destiny. In this democratic landscape, political parties vie intensely for electoral victories, with winning elections serving as their primary objective. Communities possessing a sizable, united, and skilled population tend to reap greater benefits. It is imperative to reflect on these dynamics, considering the significant challenges posed by issues such as caste and religious demographics, as well as the potential for increased social and political unrest and conflicts.

Hare Krishna Hare Rama Mantra

चेतोदर्पणमार्जनं भव-महादावाग्नि-निर्वापणम् श्रेयः

कैरवचन्द्रिकावितरणं विद्यावधू-जीवनम् ।

 आनंदाम्बुधिवर्धनं प्रतिपदं पूर्णामृतास्वादनम् 

सर्वात्मस्नपनं परं विजयते श्रीकृष्ण-संकीर्तनम् ॥

सच्चिदानंद रूपाय विश्वोत्पत्यादिहेतवे।

 तापत्रय विनाशाय श्री माधवाय वयं नम:।।

Unity of Brahmins:-
During the present scenario and for the future there is a need for Unity of all Brahmins, all Language Speaking Brahmins from all States of India & and abroad for the overall/comprehensive Development & Well-being of Brahmin and the rest of the world.

We may remember-ॐ सर्वे भवन्तु सुखिनः। सर्वे सन्तु निरामयाः।सर्वे भद्राणि पश्यन्तु।मा कश्चित् दुःख भाग्भवेत्॥

We may also remember -'' United we stand, divided we fall. Ten’s sticks together unbreakable can be broken easily if given to all. Wind easily blows the dust but cannot move the rock; Birds trapped in a net, united, along with the net, flew the flock. As well, If we are united invalid and right cause, there can't be any reason that our efforts will pause''.

Brahmins and Trikal Sandhya (त्रिकाल संध्या).

"Trikal Sandhya" refers to the practice of performing the Sandhya Vandanam. Sandhya Vandanam is usually done three times a day, during the morning, afternoon, and evening. During Trikaal Sandhya, deities, goddesses, Gandharvas, and devout individuals engage in prayers and perform puja dedicated to  Paramatma, the supreme soul or ultimate reality. The Hindu Shastras enumerate the advantages of engaging in Trikal Sandhya.

This prayer is said to fulfill desires and alleviate sorrow from life, awakening dormant energies within individuals. It not only enhances human intellect but also contributes to a brighter and more successful life. Additionally, the worship of Trikal Sandhya is believed to harmonize the body, mind, and soul with the Universe, and it is said to have the power to eradicate sins committed unknowingly.

Consequently, some devout Brahmins integrate Trikaal Sandhya into their religious routines, while others may choose to do so as well. 

In the practice of Sandhya Vandanam, individuals commonly chant a series of mantras, beginning with the sacred Om (ॐ) mantra. This ritual includes the recitation of other significant mantras such as Gayatri, Savitri mantra, Narayan Stuti, and Narayani Stuti, Guru Vandana among others.

Importance of "ॐ" (Om) in Trikal Sandhya (त्रिकाल संध्या)

The Om mantra holds significant importance in Trikal Sandhya (त्रिकाल संध्या) for the following reasons:

"ॐ" (Om) or Aum is the first sound that emerged from the mouth of the Supreme Being, the creator, which breathed life into the formation of this universe. Om consists of three syllables: A, U, and M, representing the three fundamental qualities of nature. A signifies Satva (सत्त्व), U signifies Rajas (रज), and M signifies Tamas (तम).

The dot above ("ॐ") Om symbolizes transcendence beyond or equality within the three qualities, indicating the attributeless or formless aspect of reality. When a practitioner chants Om with the understanding of its significance, they swiftly attain the state of transcendence beyond the worldly qualities.

The repetition or chanting (japa) of Om, with correct pronunciation, allows the transformation of physical energy into spiritual energy. This spiritual energy can then be connected to the universal energy of the cosmos, leading the individual towards the ultimate bliss of existence.

The relationship between Om or Aum and the Supreme Being is eternal, not symbolic. Symbolism implies a representation, but the connection between Om and the Divine is intrinsic and perpetual. In the primordial stages of creation, the initial resonance is that of the Omkar, symbolized by the sacred syllable "ॐ" (Om). Following this, the manifestation of seven crore (70 million) mantras occurs. 

For those unfamiliar with the rituals of Sanatan Dharma (Hindu Dharma), it is believed that chanting the Om mantra alone is sufficient to seek the blessings of Paramatma, also referred to as the supreme soul or ultimate reality.

In Chapter 8, Verse 13 of the Bhagavad Gita, it has been said "He who remembers me at the time of leaving the body and utters the sacred syllable 'Om' attains the supreme goal."

The entire universe is pervaded by a vibrational energy, which has two forms - sound (nada) and light (prakasha). In the spiritual realm, none of these energies can be active without the other. Ancient sages believed that the origin of creation occurred through "Nada" or primordial sound. They held that the essence of both the inert and conscious aspects of the universe is pervaded by this sound, and hence, it is also referred to as "Nada-Brahma" (the sound of the ultimate reality).

"Anadinidhanam Brahma shabdatavayadaksharam,

Vivartate arthabhavena prakriya jagatoyatah."

Translation:

"Brahma, in the form of sound, is without beginning, indestructible, and consists of imperishable syllables. It manifests in various forms through the process of transformation, creating the world with its meanings."

This conveys the idea that the sound aspect of Brahma is eternal, unchanging, and represents the fundamental creative force that gives rise to the diversity of the world through its transformative process. The initiation of this sound is symbolized by the sacred syllable 'Om' ('ॐ' in Sanskrit), which is considered the essence of the sound form of Brahma. According to the text Shatapatha Brahmana, understanding 'Shabdabrahma' (the sound aspect of Brahma) in its true form leads one to attain the knowledge of the ultimate reality, known as 'Brahma-tattva.'

प्राचीन मनीषियों ने सृष्टि की उत्पत्ति नाद से मानी है। ब्रह्माण्ड के सम्पूर्ण जड़-चेतन में नाद व्याप्त है इसी कारण इसे "नादब्रह्म” भी कहते हैं।

अनादिनिधनं ब्रह्म शब्दतवायदक्षरम् ।

विवर्तते अर्थभावेन प्रक्रिया जगतोयतः॥

अर्थात् शब्द रूपी ब्रह्म अनादि, विनाश रहित और अक्षर (नष्ट न होने वाला) है । शब्द का आरम्भ जिस रूप में हुआ उसी स्थिति में वह अनन्तकाल तक बना रहेगा। आरम्भ शब्द ‘ओ़उम्’ माना गया है। इसको संक्षिप्त प्रतीक स्वरूप ‘ॐ’ के रूप में लिखा जाता है। शतपथ ब्राह्मण के अनुसार- ‘शब्दब्रह्म’ को ठीक तरह जानने वाला ‘ब्रह्म-तत्त्व’ को प्राप्त करता है

प्रथम ध्वनि /आदि मंत्र-ॐ 

Monosyllable/One syllable Mantra-OM

एकाक्षर मंत्र ॐ(ओ३म्)

 

The renowned scriptures emphasize repeatedly, विप्रो वृक्षस्तस्य मूलं च सन्ध्या वेदः शाखा धर्म कर्माणि पत्रम् । तस्मात्मूलं यत्नतो रक्षणीयं छिन्ने मूले नैव शाखा न पत्रम् ।।

The verse can be translated into English as follows:

"The Brahmin is like a tree; its root is the Sandhya (ritual), the Vedas are its branches, and duties (karmas) are its leaves. Therefore, the root must be diligently protected, for if the root is severed, neither the branches nor the leaves survive.

"This verse emphasizes the importance of safeguarding the foundational practices represented by the root (Sandhya) for the preservation of the entire system of duties and knowledge symbolized by the branches (Vedas) and leaves (karmas).

Considering the information provided, it is suggested that devout Utkal Brahmins may choose to incorporate Trikal Sandhya into their religious routines.

 Nonetheless, it is essential to acknowledge that religious practices are deeply personal choices, and individuals vary in their interpretations and levels of commitment to these customs.

Sandhya Vandanam

Daily duties of Brahmins

In adherence to Hindu tradition, Brahmins observe the crucial practice of Sandhya-vandana as a prerequisite for engaging in other Vedic rituals. The periods delineating the transitions between night and day, known as prātaḥ sandhyā (around 6 am IST), day and noon, termed mādhyāhnika sandhyā (around 12 noon IST), and noon and night, referred to as sāyaṃ sandhyā (around 6 pm IST), hold significance in this ritual. Sandhya-vandana is considered the foundational step for all subsequent rituals, with Dharmaśāstra underscoring that rituals performed without completing this practice are deemed fruitless.

Following sunrise, Brahmins dedicate themselves to the study of the Veda. Additionally, they partake in rituals like Vaishvadeva homa, where offerings of rice cakes are presented to vishvadevas (all devatas) subsequent to the performance of Sandhyavandanam (mādhyāhnika-sandhyā). This ritual is perceived as a means to cleanse oneself from any potential sins that might have occurred during the preparation of meals, including boiling rice, cutting vegetables, and burning firewood.

In summary, Sandhya-vandana is foundational, and its proper observance is considered a prerequisite for other Vedic rituals. The detailed procedures outlined in the Śāṅkhāyana-gṛhya-sūtra highlight the significance of constant practice during twilight and dawn, connecting the practitioner with the divine through specific chants and postures.

In addition to the core practices of Sandhyavandanam, practitioners may incorporate various elements such as meditation, chanting of other mantras (japa), and devotional rituals tailored to specific deities favored by the individual. The inclusion of these aspects can vary based on the practitioner's beliefs, whether they follow the Smartha, Sri Vaishnava, or Madhva traditions.

What qualities should a Brahman have?

In the traditional Vedic society, Brahmins are expected to embody certain qualities and virtues that reflect their role as teachers, priests, and guides to society. While individual qualities may vary, here are some overarching qualities traditionally associated with Brahmins:

1.Knowledge and Wisdom: Brahmins are expected to pursue and possess deep knowledge of scriptures, philosophy, and other sacred texts. They serve as repositories of wisdom and spiritual guidance for the community.

2.Spiritual Purity: Brahmins are expected to maintain a high level of spiritual purity through adherence to rituals, ethical conduct, and spiritual practices. They are often held to stricter standards of conduct in terms of diet, behavior, and lifestyle.

3.Austerity and Simple Living: Brahmins traditionally lead a simple and austere lifestyle, avoiding excessive materialism and luxury. They prioritize spiritual pursuits over material wealth and comforts.

4.Compassion and Nonviolence: Brahmins are expected to embody compassion and nonviolence (ahimsa) in their thoughts, words, and actions. They are encouraged to show kindness and empathy towards all living beings.

5.Truthfulness and Integrity: Brahmins are expected to be truthful and honest in their dealings with others. They are held to high standards of integrity and are expected to uphold moral principles in all aspects of life.

6.Service and Selflessness: Brahmins are encouraged to serve the community and humanity at large selflessly, without seeking personal gain or recognition. They often perform rituals, ceremonies, and acts of charity for the benefit of others.

7.Humility and Respect: Brahmins are expected to cultivate humility and respect towards others, regardless of social status or background. They should treat all individuals with dignity and honor.

8.Intellectual Curiosity and Open-mindedness: Brahmins are encouraged to maintain intellectual curiosity and open-mindedness, seeking to continuously expand their knowledge and understanding of the world.

9.Brahmins are expected to have the wisdom to distinguish between Satya (the True and Eternal) and Mithya (the False and Transient), much like the mythical Paramahamsa, the swan that discerns the Real (Satya) from the Unreal (Mithya).

It's important to note that while these qualities are traditionally associated with Brahmins, individuals may vary in their adherence to these ideals, and contemporary interpretations may differ based on cultural and social contexts.

A Brahmin is expected to embody the following qualities:

Sattvic Food: They adhere to a diet of Sattvic foods, including fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and dairy products, while avoiding processed or excessively spicy foods.

Sattvic Activities: Engaging in activities that foster peace, harmony, and spiritual growth, such as meditation, yoga, communing with nature, listening to soothing music, and reading uplifting literature.

Cultivation of a Sattvic Mindset: Practicing mindfulness, gratitude, compassion, and self-awareness, nurturing positive thoughts and attitudes while refraining from negativity and harmful behaviors.

Strength, Courage, and Enthusiasm: Maintaining physical strength and mental resilience through regular exercise, sufficient rest, and affirming one's capabilities. Facing challenges with determination and zeal.

Peacekeeping: Promoting inner and outer peace through non-violence (ahimsa) and actively seeking peaceful resolutions to conflicts.

Mercy and Compassion: Demonstrating kindness, empathy, and forgiveness towards oneself and others, extending understanding and support without judgment.

Austerity, Tolerance, and Knowledge: Embracing simplicity and moderation in lifestyle, showing tolerance and acceptance of diversity, and dedicating oneself to continual learning and self-improvement.

कल्कि नाम संकीर्तनं।

ब्राह्मण के लिए ध्यान रखने वाली बातें:-
ब्राह्मण को महान बनाने वाले सात प्रमुख बातें -शिक्षा ,सहिष्णुता ,संस्कार, अहिंसा,धर्म पालन,दयालूता और वेद,वेदांत,शास्त्र में निपुणता।
ब्राह्मण के लिये अब जरुरी सात प्रमुख बातें -उच्च शिक्षा-अनुसंधान और उद्यमिता ,अधिक सहिष्णुता,अधिक संस्कार ,एकता ,मेहनत,भाईचारा,धर्म पालन।
 ब्राह्मण के लिये छोङने वाली तीन प्रमुख बातें-1-बुरी संगत, 2- कुप्रथाएँ ,3- आपसी मनमुटाव ॥
ब्राह्मण को जोङने वाली तीन प्रमुख बातें-1-गौरवशाली इतिहास, 2- परम्पराएँ ,3-हमारे आदर्श।

ब्राह्मण के लिए सदा सर्वदा ध्यान रखने वाली बातें -।। सं गच्छध्वम् सं वदध्वम्।। (ऋग्वेद 10.181.2)

अर्थात: साथ चलें मिलकर बोलें। उसी सनातन मार्ग का अनुसरण करो जिस पर पूर्वज चले हैं।

श्रीभगवानुवाच:
ऊर्ध्वमूलमधःशाखमश्वत्थं प्राहुरव्ययम्।
छन्दांसि यस्य पर्णानि यस्तं वेद स वेदवित्॥

It is important for every Brahmins to be acquainted with Chapter 15, Verses1 to 20 of the Bhagavad Gita, as it imparts wisdom about the nature of the material world and illuminates the path to spiritual liberation.

1.The Supreme Divine Personality explained that there's a special tree called aśhvatth. Its roots are up, and branches are down. The leaves represent Vedic hymns, and understanding this tree means knowing the Vedas.

2.The branches of the tree extend upward and downward, nourished by the three guṇas, with the objects of the senses as tender buds. The roots of the tree hang downward, causing the flow of karma in the human form. Below, its roots branch out causing (karmic) actions in the world of humans.

3 & 4.The real form of this tree is not perceived in this world, neither its beginning nor end, nor its continued existence. But this deep-rooted aśhvatth tree must be cut down with a strong axe of detachment. Then one must search out the base of the tree, which is the Supreme Lord, from whom streamed forth the activity of the universe a long time ago. Upon taking refuge in Him, one will not return to this world again.

5. Those who are free from vanity and delusion, who have overcome the evil of attachment, who dwell constantly on the self and on God, who are free from the desire to enjoy the senses, and are beyond the dualities of pleasure and pain, such liberated personalities attain My eternal Abode. Individuals bound by vanity and delusion, unable to break free from the shackles of attachment and the desire for sensory pleasures, continually traverse from one branch to another within the Ashvattha tree.

6.Neither the sun nor the moon, nor fire can illumine that Supreme Abode of Mine. Having gone There, one does not return to this material world again.

7.The embodied souls in this material world are My eternal fragmental parts. But bound by material nature, they are struggling with the six senses including the mind.

8.As the air carries fragrance from place to place, so does the embodied soul carry the mind and senses with it, when it leaves an old body and enters a new one.

9.Using the sense perceptions of the ears, eyes, skin, tongue, and nose, which are grouped around the mind, the embodied soul savors the objects of the senses.

10.The ignorant do not perceive the soul as it resides in the body, and as it enjoys sense objects; nor do they perceive it when it departs. But those who possess the eyes of knowledge can behold it.

11.Striving yogis too are able to realize the soul enshrined in the body. However, those whose minds are not purified cannot cognize it, even though they strive to do so.

12.Know that I am like the brilliance of the sun that illuminates the entire solar system. The radiance of the moon and the brightness of the fire also come from Me.

13.Permeating the earth, I nourish all living beings with My energy. Becoming the moon, I nourish all plants with the juice of life.

14.It is I who take the form of the fire of digestion in the stomachs of all living beings, and combine with the incoming and outgoing breaths, to digest and assimilate the four kinds of foods.

15.I am seated in the hearts of all living beings, and from Me come memory, knowledge, as well as forgetfulness. I alone am to be known by all the Vedas, am the author of the Vedant, and the knower of the meaning of the Vedas.

16.There are two kinds of beings in creation, the kṣhar (perishable) and the akṣhar (imperishable). The perishable are all beings in the material realm. The imperishable are the the liberated beings.

17.Besides these, is the Supreme Divine Personality, who is the indestructible Supreme Soul. He enters the three worlds as the unchanging Controller and supports all living beings.

18.I am transcendental to the perishable world of matter, and even to the imperishable soul; hence I am celebrated, both in the Vedas and the Smṛitis, as the Supreme Divine Personality.

19.Those who know Me without doubt as the Supreme Divine Personality truly have complete knowledge. O Arjun, they worship Me with their whole being.

20.I have shared this most secret principle of the Vedic scriptures with you, O sinless Arjun. By understanding this, a person becomes enlightened, and fulfills all that is to be accomplished.

Hindi:-

1.पुरुषोतम भगवान ने कहाः ऐसा कहा गया है कि शाश्वत अश्वत्थ वृक्ष की जड़ें ऊपर की ओर तथा इसकी शाखाएँ नीचे की ओर होती हैं। इसके पत्ते वैदिक स्रोत हैं और जो इस वृक्ष के रहस्य को जान लेता है उसे वेदों का ज्ञाता कहते हैं।

2.इस वृक्ष की शाखाएँ ऊपर तथा नीचे की ओर फैलती हैं और इन्द्रिय विषयों के साथ कोमल कोंपलों के समान तीनों गुणों द्वारा पोषित होती हैं। वृक्ष की जड़ें नीचे की ओर भी लटकी होती हैं जिसके कारण मानव जन्म में कर्मों का प्रवाह होता है। इसकी नीचे के ओर की जड़ों की शाखाएँ संसार में मानव जाति के कर्मों का कारण हैं।

3 & 4.इस संसार में इस वृक्ष के वास्तविक स्वरूप का बोध नहीं हो सकता और न ही इसके आदि, अंत और निरन्तर अस्तित्व को जाना जा सकता है। अतः इस गहन जड़ों वाले अश्वत्थ वृक्ष को विरक्ति रूपी सशक्त शस्त्र से काट देना चाहिए तभी कोई इसके आधार को जान सकता है जो कि परम प्रभु हैं जिनसे ब्रह्माण्ड की गतिविधियों का अनादिकाल से प्रवाह हुआ है और उनकी शरण ग्रहण करने पर फिर कोई इस संसार में लौट कर नहीं आता।

5.वे जो अभिमान और मोह से मुक्त रहते हैं एवं जिन्होंने आसक्ति की बुराई पर विजय पा ली है, जो निरन्तर अपनी आत्मा और भगवान में लीन रहते हैं, जो इन्द्रिय भोग की कामना से मुक्त रहते हैं और सुख-दुख के द्वन्द्वों से परे हैं, ऐसे मुक्त जीव मेरा नित्य धाम प्राप्त करते हैं। वे व्यक्ति, जो अहंकार और मोह से बंधित हैं, जो आसक्ति और इंद्रियों के भोग की इच्छा से मुक्ति प्राप्त नहीं कर पा रहे हैं, ऐसे व्यक्ति अश्वत्थ वृक्ष के  एक शाखा से दूसरी शाखा में लगातार चलते रहते हैं।

6. न तो सूर्य, न ही चन्द्रमा और न ही अग्नि मेरे सर्वोच्च लोक को प्रकाशित कर सकते हैं। वहाँ जाकर फिर कोई पुनः इस भौतिक संसार में लौट कर नहीं आता।

7.इस भौतिक संसार की आत्माएँ मेरा शाश्वत अणु अंश हैं लेकिन प्राकृत शक्ति के बंधन के कारण वे मन सहित छः इन्द्रियों के साथ संघर्ष करती हैं।

8.जिस प्रकार से वायु सुगंध को एक स्थान से दूसरे स्थान पर ले जाती है उसी प्रकार से देहधारी आत्मा जब पुराने शरीर का त्याग करती है और नये शरीर में प्रवेश करती है उस समय वह अपने साथ मन और इन्द्रियों को भी ले जाती है।

9.कान, आंख, त्वचा, जिह्वा और नासिका के इन्द्रिय बोध जो मन के चारों ओर समूहबद्ध हैं, के साथ देहधारी आत्मा इन्द्रिय विषयों का भोग करती है।

10.अज्ञानी आत्मा का अनुभव नहीं कर पाते जबकि यह शरीर में रहती है और इन्द्रिय विषयों का भोग करती है और न ही उन्हें इसके शरीर से प्रस्थान करने का बोध होता है लेकिन वे जिनके नेत्र ज्ञान से युक्त होते हैं वे इसे देख सकते हैं।

11.भगवद्प्राप्ति के लिए प्रयासरत योगी यह जानने में समर्थ हो जाते हैं कि आत्मा शरीर में प्रतिष्ठित है किन्तु जिनका मन शुद्ध नहीं है वे प्रयत्न करने के बावजूद भी इसे जान नहीं सकते।

12.यह जान लो कि मैं सूर्य के तेज के समान हूँ जो पूरे ब्रह्माण्ड को प्रकाशित करता है। सूर्य का तेज और अग्नि की दीप्ति मुझसे ही उत्पन्न होती है।

13.पृथ्वी पर व्याप्त रहकर मैं सभी जीवों को अपनी शक्ति से पोषित करता हूँ। चन्द्रमा के रूप में मैं सभी पेड़-पौधों और वनस्पतियों को जीवन रस प्रदान करता हूँ।

14.मैं सभी जीवों के उदर में पाचन अग्नि के रूप में रहता हूँ, भीतरी श्वास और प्रश्वास के संयोजन से चार प्रकार के भोजन को मिलाता और पचाता हूँ।

15.मैं समस्त जीवों के हृदय में निवास करता हूँ और मुझसे ही स्मृति, ज्ञान और विस्मृति आती है। केवल मैं ही सभी वेदों द्वारा जानने योग्य हूँ, मैं वेदांत का रचयिता और वेदों का अर्थ जानने वाला हूँ।

16.सृष्टि में दो प्रकार के जीव हैं-क्षर और अक्षर। भौतिक जगत के सभी जीव नश्वर हैं और मुक्त जीव अविनाशी हैं।

17. इनके अतिरिक्त एक परम सर्वोच्च व्यक्तित्व है जो अक्षय परमात्मा है। वह तीनों लोकों में अपरिवर्तनीय नियंता के रूप में प्रवेश करता है और सभी जीवों का पालन पोषण करता है।

18.मैं नश्वर सांसारिक पदार्थों और यहाँ तक कि अविनाशी आत्मा से भी परे हूँ इसलिए मैं वेदों और स्मृतियों दोनों में ही दिव्य परम पुरूष के रूप में विख्यात हूँ।

19.वे जो संशय रहित होकर मुझे परम दिव्य भगवान के रूप में जानते हैं, वास्तव में वे पूर्ण ज्ञान से युक्त हैं। हे अर्जुन! वे पूर्ण रूप से मेरी भक्ति में तल्लीन रहते हैं।

20.हे निष्पाप अर्जुन! मैंने तुम्हें वैदिक ग्रंथों का अति गुह्य सिद्धान्त समझाया है। इसे समझकर मनुष्य प्रबुद्ध हो जाता है और अपने प्रयासो में परिपूर्ण हो जाता है।

Here, the historical narrative of the Brahmins comes to an end, covering a range of issues intricately linked to the journey of the Brahmins, both directly and indirectly. let us now immerse ourselves in the captivating song,  where life is portrayed as a rented home("ज़िन्दगी एक किराए का घर है).

वासांसि जीर्णानि यथा विहाय:

नवानि गृह्णाति नरोऽपराणि। 

तथा शरीराणि विहाय जीर्णा,

नन्यानि संयाति नवानि देहि ।।

जैसे मनुष्य जीर्ण वस्त्रों को त्यागकर दूसरे नये वस्त्रों को धारण करता है, वैसे ही देही जीवात्मा पुराने शरीरों को त्याग कर दूसरे नए शरीरों को प्राप्त होता है।।

The Brahmin:

With peaceful heart and mind serene,

A Brahmin walks, unseen, unseen.

In self-control, he finds his way,

And darkness fades before the day.

Austere in life, content in soul,

In purity, he finds his role.

No wealth of gold or pride of name—

Just virtue’s light, a steady flame.

With tolerance he greets the world,

Where anger's storms may yet be hurled.

Honesty his shining guide,

A beacon clear, he cannot hide.

In knowledge deep, in wisdom's grace,

He journeys on, a sacred space.

Devotion pure, a light divine,

To realms unseen his heart aligns.

So walks he forth, the noble one,

A path aglow, till day is done.

In gentle ways, he shows us all,

How high the spirit yet can call.

Original Flag of Sanātana Dharma  
 (Hindu Dharma)

I dedicate this writing for the peace of the departed soul of my only son

 late ৺  Akash Mahanty an Internationally acclaimed  software developer

and Inventor -Prabir Kumar Mahanty.

पढ़ें >>LINK>🔗जनेऊ या यज्ञोपवीत धारण विधि।

पृथिव्यां यानि तीर्थानि पुण्यान्यायतनानि च ।

 तानि सर्वाण्यशेषाणि हरिरित्यक्षरद्वयम् ।।

    Visit Four Pilgrimage of India.

चार धाम (तीर्थ) दर्शन 

                        

Shree Jagannath Mahaprabhu

Comments of Author:-
This article has been penned under the divine inspiration of Lord Jagannath. If anybody or any organization doesn't agree with any content of this article, he or they may mention it in the comments with documentary evidence and it will be corrected. Any comments in this regard without documentary evidence and source of Information will be treated as mala fide and will be deleted..🙏O Lord, please grant me only knowledge, energy and devotion.🙏

Sources of Information:-
1.Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam (Śrīmad Bhāgavata Maha Purāṇa)-श्रीमद् भागवत महापुराण

2.भारतीय ब्राह्मणों की गोत्रावली 5th ed-2010 by- L.N.Sharma. Panipat (This Hindi book contains the most exhaustive list of Brahmans gotras and pravaras together with their real and mythological histories)
3.Wikipedia. 

4.The Himalayan Gazetteer Vol.III No.1 published in 1882 and reprinted in 1998.
5.Websites of Various Brahmin Samaj of India
6.Shruti of Brahmin.

7.The Times of India-08-Dec-2014
8.The genesis of Utkal Brahmins.
To read The Genesis of Utkal Brahmins, Bhavishya Malika, End of Kali Yuga & Kalki Avatar.

Click on link>🔗Utkala Brahmin : Bhavisya Mâlika: End of Kali Yuga: Kalki Avatar :-

               

  

About the Author:-

Prabir is an Indian author who was born into a Utkal Brahmin family in the Indian state of West Bengal. He is known for his books, which are sold through Amazon.com, Flipkart.com, and Abebooks.com. Prabir is known for his genre/style of writing and has gained a dedicated following of readers who appreciate his unique perspective/engaging storytelling/etc. Prabir  has a passion for writing and has dedicated his career to creating engaging and thought-provoking works for his readers. His books and articles cover a wide range of genres and topics, and he is highly popular within the intellectual community for his contributions.

प्रबीर कुमार  एक भारतीय लेखक हैं। उनका जन्म भारतीय राज्य पश्चिम बंगाल में एक उत्कल ब्राह्मण परिवार में हुआ था। उनकी किताबें Amazon.com,flipkart.com और abebooks.com के जरिए बेची जाती हैं। 12 लाख से अधिक लोगों ने उनकी किताबें और लेख पढ़े हैं। 

To Read The Genesis of Utkal Brahmin click~Utkal Brahmins