Khandayat: Upper Caste or Mega-Caste in Odisha
The Caste System in Odisha and the Position of Khandayat
Introduction
The caste system in Odisha, a state in eastern India, is deeply rooted in its historical and cultural fabric. Among the various castes, the Khandayat hold a significant place, and their position within the caste hierarchy remains a topic of discussion. This article explores whether the Khandayat are considered an upper caste in Odisha or not, shedding light on their role in the state's social and historical context.
Khandayat: Lower to Brahmins and Upper to All Remaining Castes
The caste hierarchy in Odisha is complex and multifaceted. According to traditional classification, the Khandayat are often regarded as being lower to the Brahmins but higher than all other castes. This status is attributed to their historical significance in the formation and maintenance of the Paika army and their royal administrative duties. Historically, the Khandayat have been involved in critical roles such as guarding forts, performing patrol duties, and serving in the royal army.
The Khandayat Community: A Mega-Caste in Odisha
The Khandayat community is one of the largest in Odisha. It includes several sub-castes, each with its own unique characteristics and roles. These sub-castes were historically involved in various military and administrative functions. For instance, many Khandayat individuals served as temporary soldiers during times of war or when there was a call to duty, and reverted to farming and other occupations during peace.
Feudal Setup and Social Status
During the feudal setup, the Khandayat were able to maintain a certain level of martial customs and discipline. While they were not considered upper castes by the Kaulika Kshatriyas, they were generally categorized as middle castes in the Odia society. This means that while they were not at the highest rung of the caste ladder, they were recognized for their military prowess and administrative role.
The Real Kshatriya Castes of Odisha
Those who were directly involved in guarding forts and holding permanent official ranks in the royal army were considered the true Kshatriya castes of Odisha. These individuals are often compared to the Rajputs of Northern India. It's interesting to note that many Khandayat castes have origins that can be traced back to Rajput families. Common surnames such as Uttarakabat, Dakhinakabata, Mahapatra, Bala Singha, Baliarsingha, Samantasinghara, and Bhramarabeera are often found in Kshatriya clans of Odisha. These surnames are indicative of their status and historical significance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Khandayat community holds a unique position in the social and historical landscape of Odisha. While they are not traditionally classified as an upper caste, they are recognized for their significant contributions to the state's military and administrative affairs. Their status as a mega-caste in Odisha speaks to their historical importance and enduring influence in the region.
Key Takeaways: Khandayat are traditionally considered lower to Brahmins but higher than other castes in Odisha. The Khandayat community is one of the largest in Odisha and includes several sub-castes. Historically, many Khandayat individuals were involved in the Paika army and royal administration. Those who held permanent ranks in the royal army are considered true Kshatriya castes in Odisha.