Ahiwasi
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Ahiwasi Brahmin, sometimes spelt Ahivasi, is a Brahmin caste found in the states of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh in India.[1]
The Ahiwasi take their name from the Sanskrit ahi meaning dragon and was meaning dwelling, and their name means those who come from the abode of the dragon. They are said to have gotten this name on account of their association with Rishi Saubhari, who is said to have provided sanctuary to dragons at the village of Sunrakh, in what is now Mathura District. The Ahiwasi claim to be descendants of the Saubhari Rishi and 50 daughters of Mandhata. Historically, the Ahiwasi Brahmans were involved in the carrying trade, transporting salt from Rajasthan to other parts of North India. This led to settlements of the caste in the Narmada valley. In Madhya Pradesh, according to the traditions of the caste, Ahiwasi Brahmans are descended from a Brahman father and 50 Kshatriya mother.