Caste Name: | Sehdev |
Caste Name In Local: | Sehdev, Sadioura |
Jati: | Rajput |
Region: | Punjab |
Ethnicity: | Punjabi |
Varna: | Kshatriya |
Languages: | Punjabi |
State: | Punjab, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi |
Religions: | Sikhism, Hinduism |
The Sehdev is a clan associated with the Rajput community,[1] predominantly found in Punjab and Rajasthan. The Rajputs, whose name is derived from "Rajputra" meaning "son of a king," are traditionally part of the Kshatriya varna, known for their warrior and ruling class status.
During the Mughal era, many Rajput families, including the Sehdevs, were influenced by the teachings of Sikh Gurus. This period saw numerous Rajputs converting to Sikhism and becoming baptized as Khalsa Sikhs. The Khalsa Panth, established by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699, promoted principles of equality, justice, and resistance against oppression. The Sehdevs, like many other Rajput clans, joined the Khalsa and contributed to its military and spiritual endeavors.
The Sehdev clan shares family tree with the Mair Rajput community,[2] which is primarily found in the northern regions of India, including Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan. The Mair Rajputs, also known as Mair Rajput Sunars, belong to the Kshatriya varna and have a distinct identity within the broader Rajput community. They trace their lineage to the Suryavanshi (solar dynasty), which is associated with Lord Raama, the hero of the Hindu epic Ramayana. This Suryavanshi lineage is an important aspect of their heritage, linking them to ancient royal traditions.
In addition to their noble lineage, the Mair Rajputs, including the Sehdev clan, have traditionally been associated with the goldsmith profession. Known as Sunars, they have a history of craftsmanship in gold and jewelry. The association with gold and the role of goldsmiths combines their noble warrior heritage with the prestigious craft of creating royal adornments.[3]
The Sehdevs (or Sadiouras) are traditionally known for their skills as goldsmiths, silversmiths, and jewelers. In Punjab, most goldsmiths belong to various Rajput clans, including the Sehdevs, Chauhans, Suris, and Dhunnas. These communities have a long-established reputation for their craftsmanship in working with precious metals and gemstones, producing intricate and culturally significant jewelry pieces. Their expertise is highly regarded, particularly in cities like Amritsar, which is renowned for its vibrant jewelry market.[4]
The Rajputs, traditionally a warrior class, have diversified into various professions over time. In Punjab, the integration of Rajput clans into the jewelry trade is notable, with many becoming well-known goldsmiths and jewelers. This historical development underscores the multifaceted contributions of Rajput communities to the cultural and economic fabric of the region.
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