Lunar dynasty

In Hindu mythology, the Lunar dynasty (Somavansha, Chandravansha) also known as Ailas is one of the four principal houses of the Kshatriya varna, or warrior–ruling caste. This legendary dynasty was descended from the moon (Soma or Chandra), while the other principal houses, the Solar Dynasty (Suryavanshi) claims descent from the sun (surya), the Agnivanshi claim to have been born to the fire-god Agni, and the Nagavanshi claim to be descended from the Nagas, the sacred serpents, with the term vansh referring to descent.^{[citation needed]} Within this family tree sub-branches such as Bharatvansha, Yaduvansha, Puruvansha, Kuruvansha, Panduvansha and others emerged, each named after a prominent progenitor of the line. Throughout history, various South Asian communities have claimed descent from Chandra through these lineages.

The legendary capital of the Lunar Dynasty was Pratisthana, said to be founded by Ila.^[1]

Yaduvanshi lineage

Of the many branches of the Chandravansh line, the Yaduvanshi lineage is a major branch.^{[citation needed]} This branch is an offshoot^{[citation needed]} of the Bharatvansh which started with the eldest son of Yayati, Yadu. All his descendants are known as Yadavas of Yaduvansh,^{[citation needed]} meaning descendants of Yadu.^{[citation needed]} During the Mahabharat, Chandravansh was only associated with Yadavas and Shoorsaini syadavs.^{[citation needed]} The Rajput clans Bhati, Jadeja, Charak, Chudasama, Chandela, who built Khajuraho, and Jadaun clans claim that they are Chandravansis.

Several Indian castes such as the Sainis of Punjab^[2] and contiguous regions, the Sainis and the Seuna Yadavs of Devagiri^[3] claim descent from the Hindu God Krishna.

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