Hello, I'm Dr. Samir Gupta, a sociologist specializing in the Indian subcontinent's social structures, particularly the caste system. My research focuses on the historical development of caste, its impact on contemporary Indian society, and the ongoing debates surrounding caste identity and social mobility.

It's important to understand that "Khanna" itself doesn't directly correspond to a specific caste. The term "Khanna" is an occupational surname, primarily found within the Khatri community.

Let's break down why this question needs a nuanced answer:


1. Khanna as a surname: "Khanna" signifies a historical occupation related to grain weighing and measuring. It doesn't inherently denote a specific caste the way some surnames traditionally linked to specific occupations within the caste system might.


2. Khatri Community: The surname "Khanna" is most commonly found among the Khatri community. Khatris are a North Indian community traditionally associated with Kshatriya (warrior) varna, the second-highest in the traditional four-fold varna system. However, it's crucial to note:

* Varna vs. Jati: The varna system is a broader theoretical framework, while jati refers to specific endogamous groups with their own customs and hierarchies within a varna. Khatris encompass numerous jatis, each with its own social standing and practices.
* Occupational Mobility: Historically, Khatris were known for their involvement in various professions beyond the traditional Kshatriya roles, including trade, administration, and even religious scholarship. This occupational fluidity makes it difficult to pinpoint a singular caste identity based solely on "Khanna" as a surname.


3. Regional Variations: Caste dynamics have always been influenced by regional variations within India. The social standing and practices of a particular jati within the Khatri community can differ significantly across different regions of North India. Therefore, simply knowing someone's surname as "Khanna" doesn't provide enough information to definitively determine their specific caste or social standing within the intricate tapestry of Indian society.

In conclusion, while "Khanna" is associated with the Khatri community, typically linked to the Kshatriya varna, it's an occupational surname that doesn't directly translate to a specific caste identity. To understand an individual's social position, one would need to consider their specific family history, regional background, and other contextual factors within the framework of the complex and constantly evolving Indian caste system.
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Khatri is a caste from the northern Indian subcontinent. Khatris in India and Pakistan are mostly from the Punjab region. Khatris played an important role in India's trans regional trade during the Mughal Empire. They adopted administrative and military roles outside the Punjab region as well.read more >>