Hanjra

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Hanjra (also spelt Hinjra ) is a clan of Jats found in the Punjab, Pakistan and Northern Indian state of Punjab.

[edit] History

Hanjras are descended from Raja Jagnath, a Rajput prince.[1]

Raja Jagnath, was the younger son of Raja Giyal[2], the conqueror of Makhiala. Raja Giyal was the son of Raja Mal, the ruler of Malot Fort in Chakwal, originally hailing from Raja Dalip of Delhi.[3]

Raja Jagnath married many wives and had many sons, who founded various sub tribes and clans. His youngest son, Hanjra conquered Silapath.[4]

Hanjra's tribe eventually settled in Punjab and remained as Jagirdars and a powerful tribe in the area.

After the Partition of India, a few Hanjra Jats moved to eastern Punjab (comprising today's states of Punjab (India), Haryana and Himachal Pradesh). While the Muslim remained or some in Eastern Punjab migrated to Pakistan. Hanjras own large swaths of land in western Punjab and are generally considered to be one of the most richest, educated, talented and powerful Jats. Hanjras hold a proud heritage of being among the most sought after clans during marital affairs, due to their strong lineage. They are known for their intelligence and looks. There are a significant number of Hanjras in Pakistan, in the area around Jhang,in the late 19th century many of Hanjras settled around Jhang and Faisalabad after the establishment of an irrigation system.

[edit] Religion

Hanjras in eastern Punjab in India are predominantly Sikh. The Hanjras in Pakistan are predominantly Muslims.

 This article about an Indian ethnicity or social group is a stub. See the WikiProject India for article coordination. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it.

[edit] References

  1. ^ Gazetteer of the Sialkot District, Sang e meel, 1990, p42
  2. ^ Glossary of the Tribes and Castes of the Punjab and North West Frontier Province by Horace Arthur Rose, 1990, p298
  3. ^ Glossary of the Tribes and Castes of the Punjab and North West Frontier Province by Horace Arthur Rose, 1990, p298
  4. ^ Glossary of the Tribes and Castes of the Punjab and North West Frontier Province by Horace Arthur Rose, 1990, p298