The Mahajan surname is widely recognized across India, particularly in North India, and is associated with several castes and communities. The word “Mahajan” itself is a combination of two Sanskrit words: “Maha” meaning great, and “Jan” meaning people or individuals. Therefore, the term Mahajan can be translated as “great people” or “respectable individuals,” signifying their revered status in society.
In its historical context, Mahajan has also been used as a generic title for those involved in money lending. However, over time, the name has been embraced by various sub-castes, each with its own distinct identity, cultural practices, and spiritual beliefs. Even if someone is not a Mahajan by caste, the term Mahajan may still be used to refer to individuals involved in the business of money lending.
Mahajan Sub-Castes
The Mahajan community is diverse, with various sub-castes spread across the Indian subcontinent. In North India, these sub-castes include, but are not limited to:
- Mahotra, Swaar, Beotra, Sanghois, Phagetra, Jandials, Vaid, Bangwathiya, Langars, Rarotra, Fave (Phave), Padotra, Kubre, Piddu, Gadhede, Chunne, Manath, Karmotra, Kankaal, Lamhe, Khadyals, Kanghal/Kaag, Sadad, Paba, Jugnal, Ukhalmunde, Bucche, Gadri, Laira, Kalsotra, Chapate, Bharray, Jandiyal, Parru, Rohmetra (Rametra), Malguria, Chukarne, Iddar, Chogga, Thathar, Lamma, Makhirru, Bichchu, Thapre, Tathyan
These sub-castes are widespread, with each having its own unique traditions and cultural practices. Despite being part of the Mahajan community, each sub-caste may have specific regional practices that distinguish it from others.
Marriage Customs and Beliefs
A significant cultural aspect of the Mahajan community is their belief in maintaining the integrity of their traditions through matrimonial customs. Mahajans are prohibited from marrying within their own sub-caste. This belief stems from the notion that members of the same sub-caste are considered as siblings, and therefore marriage within the same group is seen as inappropriate.
Some Mahajans also use surnames like Gupta and Jandiyal, especially in the Jammu region. The Gupta surname is most commonly used by Mahajans in Jammu.
Congregations of Mahajan Biradaris
Mahajans from various sub-castes come together to celebrate important religious occasions, most notably the annual congregation held on Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Birthday in November. This occasion is a time for Mahajans to gather at their respective Devasthans (temples) across Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and other regions. It is a time of spiritual renewal, during which the community seeks the blessings of their Kul Devta (family deity).
In addition to these annual gatherings, Mahajan families also observe personal and familial ceremonies such as sutra (thread ceremony) and mundan (head-shaving), which are important rites of passage within the community. These ceremonies are often accompanied by langars (community meals), where Prasad (holy food) is distributed to all attendees.
Each sub-caste has its own deity, which is revered and worshipped at specific Devasthans. The following is a list of notable Mahajan Biradaris and their corresponding temples:
Rohmetra (Rametra) Mahajan Biradari Congregation:
- Baba Pragan Nath Ji Temple, Nanak Nagar, Jammu
Other Mahajan Biradari Congregations:
- All India Mahajan Jandiyal (Sansah) Biradari
- Baba Sehaj Nath Ji Devasthan, Sohal Tanda, Tehsil Akhnoor
- All India Idder Mahajan Biradari
- Maa Satyoti Temple, Village Sahar-Logate, Kathua
- All India Lamma Mahajan Biradari
- Bua Datti Temple, Village Sansayal, Tehsil Hiranagar, District Kathua
- All India Vaid Mahajan Biradari
- Kuldevi Sheela Wanti Devasthan, Mill Area, RS Pura
- All India Kangal Mahajan Biradari
- Maa Sajawati Temple, Panj Bakhtar Road, Jammu
- Akhil Bhartiya Bucha Mahajan Biradari
- Bhagoche Chak Devasthan, Ladyial, Hiranagar-Bhaiya Road
- All India Pahadoo Mahajan Biradari
- Maa Sajawati Temple, Near Bus Stand, Nowshera (Rajouri)
- All India Kanghal Mahajan Biradari
- Maa Sajawati Temple, Near Bus Stand, Nowshera (Rajouri)
These congregations serve as gathering points for Mahajan families to maintain their spiritual practices, deepen their connections with their deities, and unite as a community. The collective worship and shared experiences foster a sense of belonging and strengthen the bonds among members of each sub-caste.
For more detailed information about Mahajan Biradari, please visit the official website: Mahajan Biradari.