Maithila Brahman, Maithil Brahmin
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Maithila Brahmans in 1891
This article is an extract from
THE TRIBES and CASTES of BENGAL. Ethnographic Glossary. Printed at the Bengal Secretariat Press. 1891. . |
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A few families of this sept reside in Dacca, the illiterate serving in the police, the educated as Purohits to pure Hindustani castes. Their "Jajmans," or flock, consist of Brahmans, Chhatris, and Kurmis; occasionally of individuals belonging to the Kandu, Ahir, Kewat, and Surahiya castes; but no Maithila Brahman will officiate for the Dosad, Tanti, or Chamar. After remaining a few years in Bengal these Brahmans return to their homes in Tirhut with a little money they have saved.
The ordinary surnames of the order are Thakur, Misra, and Ojha.
Prominent Maithil Brahmins
BeingMaithil.com and other sources.
1. King Janaka - The Rishi King of Mithila
2. Devi Siya (Sita)
3. Baba Vidyapati
4. Acharya Ramlochan saran
4. Harisimhadeva
5. Gonu Jha
6. Ramdhari Singh Dinkar
7. Baba Nagarjun (Vaidyanath Mishra)
7. King Sahlesh: The lesser known legend of Mithila
8. Sharda Sinha
9. King Kameshwar Singh Gautam Bahadur
10. Gangesha Upadhyaya
Other sources suggest that these luminaries too are Maithil Brahmins:
Devaki Nandan Thakur - He was an Indian freedom fighter, politician, and writer who was born in a Maithil Brahmin family in Darbhanga, Bihar.
Ganga Sharan Singh - He was an Indian historian, writer, and Indologist who was born in a Maithil Brahmin family in Darbhanga, Bihar.
The 21st century
Maithil Brahmins are a Hindu Brahmin community native to the Mithila region, which includes parts of Bihar and Nepal. They are considered one of the most educated and intellectual communities in India, known for their proficiency in the Sanskrit language and Vedic literature.
The Maithil Brahmins have a long and rich history, and they are believed to have descended from the ancient Brahmins who settled in the Mithila region several thousand years ago. They are divided into several sub-castes, such as Kanyakubja, Saryupareen, Bhumihar, and others, based on their place of origin and cultural practices.
Traditionally, the Maithil Brahmins have been associated with scholarly pursuits, including the study and teaching of the Vedas, Puranas, and other ancient Hindu texts. They have also been involved in various administrative and political roles throughout history.
In modern times, Maithil Brahmins are found in various professions, including medicine, engineering, law, and academia. They have made significant contributions to Indian culture and society, particularly in the fields of literature, music, and art.
Some famous Maithil Brahmins include the legendary poet Vidyapati, the philosopher-saint Ramanujacharya, and the modern-day writer and politician Ramdhari Singh 'Dinkar.'
The Maithil Brahmins have a rich cultural heritage, with their own unique customs, traditions, and festivals. They are known for their elaborate marriage ceremonies, which can last for several days and involve various rituals and ceremonies. They also celebrate several festivals throughout the year, such as Chhath Puja, Saraswati Puja, and Holi.
