Kasuadhan
The Kasaudhan (sometimes pronounced Kasaundhan) are a Hindu caste found in the states of Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh in India. There Gotra is Kashyap made after rishi Kashyapa, hence they use surname as 'Kashyap' or 'Kasaudhan' .[1]
Origin
The name Kasaudhan is said to be derived from the words kaansa ("bell-metal") and dhana ("wealth"). They are divided into the Teen, Terah, Sath and Eksath groups.[1]
In Bihar, the Kasaudhan claim to have originated from Kashmir, and settled in Uattar Pradesh, Bihar and other places during the period of the Mughal Empire. They are found mainly in the districts of Bhagalpur and Munger. The Kasaudhan of Bihar speak the Angika language.[2]
Present circumstances
The Kasaudan are primarily farmers and small shop-owners.ref name="A Hasan page 743"/>
In Bihar, many Kasaudhan are landowners, but there is a growing urbanization. Many are now petty businessmen, trading in spices, grocery and hardware.[2]