Sathwara

Kshatriya Sathwara (also spelled Satwara, Sathvara, or Sathavara) is a Hindu caste primarily found in the Indian state of Gujarat. The community traditionally claims Kshatriya (warrior class) origins and has historically engaged in agriculture, military service, and administration.

Etymology

The term Sathwara or Satwara is believed to have evolved from regional dialects and historical clan titles. Members of the community often use surnames such as Parmar, Solanki, Chauhan, Makwana, and Rathod, which are historically linked to Rajput and Kshatriya lineages.

History and Origin

The precise origins of the Sathwara community are undocumented in historical texts. However, community oral traditions and local accounts suggest a Kshatriya background. According to traditional narratives, the community migrated from regions such as Rajasthan or Central India to Gujarat during periods of sociopolitical unrest.

A prevalent belief among the community holds that the name Sathwara or Satwara was conferred as an Upadhi (honorific title) by a revered Guru in Junagadh. This title recognized their Kshatriya heritage and military service. Thereafter, the term Kshatriya Sathwara came into use and was widely accepted across Gujarat.

While the community initially focused on military service, over time, many transitioned to agriculture and later diversified into trade, professions, and public service, while preserving their Kshatriya cultural identity through clan rituals and customs.

Kshatriya Identity and Warrior Role

The Sathwara identify as members of the Kshatriya varna, the warrior class in the traditional varna system.

Characteristics

• Surnames and Clans: Common surnames include those affiliated with Rajput clans.
• Cultural Practices: Includes worship of Kuldevi, martial rituals, and celebration of warrior festivals.

In Wadhwan and Jamnagar

In places such as Wadhwan (Surendranagar district) and Jamnagar, oral histories describe the Kshatriya Sathwara as serving in regional military and protection duties. They were employed by local rulers for city defense and earned reputations as loyal protectors.

Geographic Distribution

The community primarily resides in:

• Saurashtra region – including Junagadh, Rajkot, Surendranagar, and Jamnagar
• North Gujarat – including Ahmedabad, Mehsana, Banaskantha, and Sabarkantha

Diaspora populations are found in:

• Maharashtra
• Rajasthan
• United Kingdom
• United States

Occupation and Economy

Traditionally, agriculturists, especially in horticulture and cash crops, Sathwaras have expanded into:

• Construction Business
• Agriculture
• Business and trade
• Government and private sector employment
• Professions including medicine, engineering, and education

Language and Religion

• Language: The community primarily speaks Gujarati, including dialects such as Kathiawadi in Saurashtra.
• Religion: The Sathwara follow Hinduism and venerate:
  • Siddhnath Mahadev
  • Krishna
  • Hanuman
  • Shakti (especially in the form of Kuldevis)

Celebrated festivals include:

• Janmashtami
• Navratri
• Diwali
• Holi

Community Organizations

Several Sathwara Samaj organizations function at the regional and national levels. These focus on:

• Promoting education and scholarships
• Conducting Samuh Lagna (mass marriages)
• Cultural preservation and heritage documentation
• Organizing health and welfare programs

Common Surnames

Common surnames within the community include:

Parmar, Solanki, Chauhan, Bhati, Hada, Mori, Vaghela, Rathod, Makwana, Dabhi, Chavda, Gohil, Jadav, Hadiyal, Barad, Devda, Sonagara, Padhiyar, Khandla Etc.

Many of these surnames are shared with Rajput groups in Gujarat and Rajasthan.

See also

• Kshatriya
• Rajput
• Social groups of Gujarat