Bahti Caste

The Bahti caste is a Hindu Caste found in the State of Himachal Pradesh particularly in District Una, Punjab, Haryana and in some parts of Rajasthan.

History and Origin

The Bahti are also said to Khashtriyas or Chaudharys and this community is particularly involved in Agricultural activities. The Term Bahti means Bahney wale, i.e. the farmers. This caste is particularly concentrated in the District Una of Himachal Pradesh and in the State of Punjab. Originally the ruling caste over the area, they were later subjugated by the rajputs and agriculture became their main occupation. Many scholars consider them to be jatts, too, the fact more supported by the fact that during initial days of Sikhism and almost as recent as 1900s they used to make the elder son as Sikh warrior, which was a common practice of jatts.

The community has several large sub-division, the largest ones being the Kandal (kondal/kaundal), Bharwal], Bharol, Khatta, Bakralu, Chadda, Maraalu, Palial, Patra, Kabhani, Changar.

Culture

The culture of this community is very much similar to other communities of Himachal Pradesh. Men of this community wear Kurta Pajama and women Salwar Kamiz. Mostly they worship Hindu gods and goddesses. Jakh (a form of God ShiVa) and nag (snake) are also worshipped.

Women's position

The community treats women with great respect. The instances of female infanticide were negligible as people used to worship little girls as a form of Goddess. However, the recent trend of misusing technology to kill babies is unfortunately catching up. Females are given equal say in family matters. As the malpractice of dowry is not followed by most of himachali people, thus the community also is free from it.

Present Position of community

The Yoths of this community are shifting from agriculture to other occupations but in higher studies the percentage is very low i.e 3% to 4 %. For the advancement of people of this caste special steps are required. This Community is regarded as Other Backward Caste in Indian System.

Percentage of Other Backward Caste In India.The percentage of other backward castes (Other than SC/ST) is 53% (may be more.