Bania is a generic term used to refer a diverse set of Hindu communities.[1] In some cases, communities from the Vaishya social order of the Indian caste system are generally known as banias[2] while in other cases, it is used as an occupational term referring to various businesspeople and other traders irrespective of their caste.[3]
Bania is derived from the Sanskrit word Banijya which means trade and commerce.[4] The modern usage of the term was popularized by the Rajputs.[5]
The Agarwals are generally considered to be the largest and most influential of the bania communities from northern India.[6] Other large communities from the region who are generally known as banias include Barnwal, Kesarvani / Kesharwani, Mahawar, Mahur, Mahuri, Mathuria Vaishya.
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Khandelwals, Oswals, Omar, Rastogis, Ghate Banias and Parwars.[4] These communities are also commonly known by their respective clan-names.[7]
The merchant community of Gujarat, such as Gandhis, Ambanis, Sarabhais Mehta and Hirachands, are also known as banias.[8]