"Journey Through Time: Tracing the Ancient Roots of the Pawar
Community in Central India "
Rajesh Barange Pawar a,a M.S (Pharm)Medicinal
Chemistry, History Researcher, Betul,
Madhya Pradesh, India
Pranay Chopde b,b History Researcher,
Wardha, Maharashtra, India.
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ARTICLE INFO |
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ABSTRACT |
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Article
history: 29 February
2024 |
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This article explores the historical background of
the Pawar / Panwar / Bhoyar / Bhoyar-Pawar caste, tracing its origins to the
ancient Vedic Kshatriya clans. It examines well-known hypotheses regarding
the caste's genesis, emphasizing how 72 Rajput clans came together to form a
confederacy named "Pawar." Within this confederacy, the Rajputs
exclusively married with clans from within it, giving rise to a distinct
caste of Kshatriyas known as "Pawar", named after their
confederacy. This links the Pawar caste to the Suryavansh, Chandravansh,
Agnivansh, and Rishivansh branches of Vedic Kshatriyas. The Pawar caste's
lineage is closely linked to pure Vedic Kshatriya clans, with all 72 clans
tracing their origins back to these esteemed lineages. These theories
chronicle the history of genealogical research, historical narratives, and
the wisdom of community elders through the use of historical sources,
language analysis, sociological perspectives, genealogy data, community
organization books, and the observations of community historians. Through a
detailed analysis of a wide range of sources, including scholarly
publications and community records, this study sheds light on the intricate
social structure and cultural evolution of the Pawar group. The study also
examines the significance of the 72 Kshatriya clans' endogamous traditions,
which were essential for preserving Rajput ancestry and creating the Pawar
identity. It also explores how these clans became formalized gotras (kuls),
emphasizing the rich mosaic of ancestry and local influences that constitute
the Pawar community. This article offers important insights into the rich
legacy and cultural continuity of the Pawar caste as a true Vedic Kshatriya
caste by combining historical narratives with findings from modern research. @2024 The
Journal of Indian History Ltd. All rights reserved. |
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Keywords: Pawar caste, Pawar Vedic
Kshatriyas, Pawar Rajput lineage, Pawar endogamy, Pawar Confederacy of
Kshatriya clans, Pawar cultural continuity, Pawar Gotras (kuls), Kshatriya
Pawar, Kshatriya Pawar Rajput, Pawar community unity, Pawar historical
lineage, Pawar Rajput ancestry, Pawar genealogical studies, Pawar Agnivansha
branch, Pawar, Bhoyar, Bhoyar Pawar, Bhoyar caste, Bhoyar Pawar caste,
Kshatriya Pawar caste, Panwar caste, Pawar caste, Betul, Chhindwara,
Pandhurna and Wardha district Pawar caste, Tapti-Wardha Pawar, 72 clan Pawar,
Tapti Pawar, Tapti Ghati Pawar, Wardha Pawar, Wardha Ghati Pawar, Bhoyar
Panwar, Bhoyar Rajput, Bhoyar Kshatriya, Bhoyari, Pawari, Pawar cultural
evolution, Pawar social structure. |
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Introduction:
The Kshatriya Pawar caste
(alternatively known as Pawar, Panwar, Bhoyar, or Bhoyar Pawar) is a Hindu
caste primarily settled in Betul, Chhindwara, Pandhurna, and Wardha districts
of Central India. According to the Hindu and Vedic Varna system, they belong to
the Kshatriya varna. There are mainly two theories of their origin: 1)
Descending from the confederacy of 72 Kshatriya clans, 2) Descending from the
Parmar clan of Agnivanshi Kshatriyas. Here, we are going to examine which
theory of origin is more widely accepted by genealogists, scholars, historians,
and elders of the community. If a theory is more widely accepted, then it can
be considered true and authentic.
Theory of Origin:
1. According to genealogists (bhatt/rao), the Pawars are a
union of 4 major branches of Vedic Kshatriyas, which are Suryavansh,
Chandravansh, Agnivansh and Rishivansh. They are descended from a confederacy
of various Rajput clans which includes, Parmar, Chauhan, Parihar, Solanki,
Gahlot, Rathore, Kushwaha, Tomar, Bhati, Chavda and many more Rajput clans who
belongs to these branches of Vedic Kshatriyas. The Kshatriyas hailing from the
diverse clans within this confederacy held a position of considerable power and
reverence in their era. Their strategic decision to form a confederacy was
driven by a collective understanding of the need to consolidate military
strength and forge alliances with a variety of Rajput clans. In total, there
were 72 clans of Rajputs who formed this confederacy. These included 12
branches of Parmar, 1 branch of Parihar, 6 branches of Solanki, 5 branches of
Chauhan, 4 branches of Rathore, 6 branches of Kushwaha, 10 branches of Gahlot,
1 branch of Badgujar, 2 branches of Gaur, 2 branches of Tomar, 5 branches of
Bhati, 2 branches of Jhala, 1 branch of Balla, 1 branch of Labana, 1 branch of
Uthed, 1 branch of Ajana, 2 branches of Baghel, 1 branch of Garg, 1 branch of
Jethwa, 1 branch of Kanupriya, 1 branch of Barodiya, 3 branches of Chavda, 1
branch of Dahima, 2 branches of Tank. All these 72 clans restricted themselves
to marry within these 72 clans of Kshatriyas within this confederacy. This
practice of endogamy only between these specific 72 clans of Kshatriyas within
their confederacy gave rise to a distinct caste of Kshatriyas, which came to be
known as "Pawar". Over time, they began to see all the 72 Kshatriya
clans not as different groups but as part of one caste. This led to formally
establishing the Pawar Rajput caste. Importantly, the Pawar caste's lineage is
closely linked to pure Vedic Kshatriya clans, with all 72 clans tracing their
origins back to these esteemed Kshatriya lineages. This complex historical
journey, ending with the recognition of the confederacy as the Pawar caste,
demonstrates that the Pawars are truly Vedic Kshatriyas. Their legacy is built
on collaboration, strategic alliances, and a shared Rajput heritage that has
endured through time. Therefore, it's confirmed that the Pawar caste is purely
a Vedic Kshatriya caste, descended from 72 clans of Vedic Kshatriyas.
The steadfast practice of marrying within the specified 72 Kshatriya
clans of the confederacy is a crucial aspect in shaping the unique culture and
historical continuity within the Pawar caste. This special tradition, known for
its strict endogamy, plays a key role in promoting unity, preserving heritage,
and reinforcing a shared identity among Pawar community members. By sticking to
this tradition, Pawars not only strengthen cultural and social bonds but also
preserve the purity of their Rajput lineage. This commitment is a cornerstone
in fostering community unity, emphasizing a shared historical heritage and a
sense of belonging. The enduring practice of endogamy within these 72 Kshatriya
clans significantly contributes to shaping the intricate fabric of the Pawar
caste, reflecting both cultural continuity and the careful preservation of
their Rajput lineage. This steadfast commitment not only solidifies the unique
identity of the Pawars but also plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity
of their historical lineage. This practice highlights the importance of
preserving their Rajput heritage through marriages within these specified
Kshatriya clans. The careful adherence to this tradition reflects the Pawars'
dedication to their cultural and historical roots, underscoring the
significance of this enduring practice in shaping the collective identity of
the Pawar community and ensuring the preservation of their Rajput lineage. In
essence, the practice of marrying within the specified 72 Kshatriya clans is a
vital aspect of the Pawars' cultural fabric, serving as a timeless bond that
connects the past, present, and future of this esteemed Rajput community.
The intricate transformation of the 72 Kshatriya clans within the Pawar
caste into organized gotras (kuls) stands as a testament to the dynamic
evolution of their social structure. Precisely, the 72 gotras (kuls) among the
Pawars each have their lineage tracing back to the 72 clans of Kshatriyas. The
unique heritage associated with each gotra further contributes to the diversity
and richness of the Pawar identity, highlighting the complex tapestry of their
cultural and ancestral connections. This process has given rise to intricate
sub-divisions that reflect the complex family and lineage structures within the
broader Pawar community. Capturing the essence of their identity, the term
"Kshatriya Pawar Rajput" succinctly underscores their status as pure
Vedic Kshatriyas, emphasizing the direct lineage connection to the esteemed 72
clans of Rajputs. This evolution exemplifies the Pawar caste's adaptability,
demonstrating their capacity to assimilate within diverse regions while
maintaining a core link to their Kshatriya heritage. The organization of these
clans into gotras and the diversity in naming conventions serve as integral
components shaping the Pawar identity. These aspects offer valuable insights
into the community's intricate social fabric, highlighting the nuanced regional
influences that have played a crucial role in crafting their distinct cultural
tapestry. The dynamic nature of these changes not only reveals the resilience
of the Pawar community but also showcases their ability to navigate through
various historical and geographical contexts, contributing to the rich and
diverse tapestry of their cultural heritage.
The origin of the Pawar caste is a complex tapestry woven with threads
of ancient sage hood, the formation of Kshatriya clans, and the evolution of a
distinctive community shaped by endogamous practices within the 72 Kshatriya
clans. Due to geographical conditions and economic constraints of that time,
all these Pawars abounded their original Rajput customs and values in order to
support their families. Over the years, they have abandoned most of their
Rajput customs and adopted some unique customs and traditions exclusive to
them. The Pawars, entrenched in a rich historical heritage, proudly carry the
torch of their Rajput ancestry, epitomizing a unique cultural identity as
"Kshatriya Pawar Rajputs" (alternatively known as Panwar, Pawar,
Bhoyar, Bhoyar Pawar). The association of the Pawars with ancient sage hood
suggests a connection to wisdom and a deep-rooted cultural foundation. As
Kshatriyas, they are aligned with the warrior class, contributing to the
narrative of the 72 Kshatriya clans that played a pivotal role in shaping the
social fabric of their community. Through adherence to endogamous practices
within the Kshatriya clans, the Pawars have fostered a distinctive identity,
preserving their cultural and ancestral lineage.
2. According to certain historians, the origin of the Pawar
caste can be traced back to the Agnivansha branch of the Kshatriyas, which is
believed to have existed approximately 2,500 years before the Common Era (BCE).
This historical narrative finds its roots in ancient times, specifically in
Mount Abu, Rajasthan. During this era, the sage Vashishth played a pivotal role
as sages and ascetics engaged in profound endeavors that significantly
influenced the formation of the Pawar lineage. Amidst this ancient period,
these spiritual practitioners, under the guidance and mentorship of sage
Vashishth, embarked on a journey of spiritual practices and dedicated efforts.
Their collective endeavor culminated in the creation of a sacred fire pit
(known as Agni Kund), symbolizing their commitment to spiritual enlightenment
and divine connection. This remarkable achievement led to the establishment of
four prominent Kshatriya clans: Parmar, Chauhan, Parihar, and Solanki.
Together, these clans collectively became known as the Agnivanshi Kshatriyas,
serving as the progenitors of various Rajput lineages. Among these illustrious
lineages, the Pawars emerged as one of the prominent branches rooted in the
Agnivanshi Kshatriya Parmars. Over time, the Pawar lineage flourished, deeply
entrenched in the ancient Agnivanshi Kshatriya heritage. Their rich historical
lineage and significant contributions have left an indelible mark on the
broader Rajput community.
Thus, the narrative of the Pawar lineage unfolds as a compelling story
deeply intertwined with the ancient Agnivanshi Kshatriya legacy, showcasing
their enduring historical roots and enduring contributions to the diverse
tapestry of the Rajput community.
Conclusion:
According to these two
theories of origin, the first one is more accepted by genealogists, scholars,
historians, and elders of the community, thereby proving the fact that the
Pawar/Panwar/Bhoyar/Bhoyar-Pawar caste is purely a Vedic Kshatriya caste which
is originated from the confederacy of 72 Kshatriya clans.
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