Hindu Brahmin Caste: Over 31 Royalty-Free Licensable Stock Illustrations & Drawings | ShutterstockBrahmin is the highest of the four Hindu varnas, and there are numerous Brahmin castes across India, with divisions often based on geography and region. Examples include the Saraswat, Kanyakubja, Gaur, and Deshastha Brahmins, each with their own specific traditions and practices. Historically, Brahmins have been associated with priesthood, scholarship, and religious duties, but their modern occupations are diverse.
Examples of Brahmin castes
Saraswat: A large group found across northern and western India, including Kashmiri Pandits.
Kanyakubja: Found in Uttar Pradesh, and further divided into sub-castes like Saryupareen and Jujhautiya.
Gaur: Another northern group, sometimes also called Gauda.
Deshastha: A prominent community in Maharashtra.
Namboothiri: The traditional Brahmin community of Kerala.
Bengali Brahmins: Divided by regional names such as Rarhi and Varendra.
Ayyar and Ayyangar: Two major traditions within the Brahmin community of Tamil Nadu.
Chitpavan: Also known as Konkanastha, a community from Maharashtra's Konkan region.
Historical and modern roles
Traditional role: Historically, Brahmins served as priests, teachers, and guardians of sacred texts, and were responsible for performing religious ceremonies.
Expanded roles: Over time, their roles expanded to include advisors to rulers and involvement in governance and military affairs.
Modern occupation: Today, the vast majority of individuals from Brahmin communities work in a wide variety of secular professions, and they make up about 5% of India's population