Question

Discuss the various theories regarding the origin of rajputs

Answer 1

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One theory was propagated by Colonel James Todd says that Rajputs have foreign origin and they are descendants of the races such as Hunas, Kushanas and Sakas. Mr. Todd argued that Rajputs worshipped Fire and it was also worshipped by the Saka and Hunas.

Another theory says that Rajputs did not have any foreign origin and they descended from the Khastriya caste. They worshipped fire because it was done also by Aryans.

The third theory says that Rajputs are a mixed race which included descendents from both the Aryans and the foreign races.

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Answer 2

Explanation:

During the early medieval period in Indian history-750-1200 AD, Rajputs emerged as a new Kshatriya clan. It started with emergence of various warrior castes which later got assimilated into a single caste-Rajputs.

The origin of Rajputs is a highly debated topic. Different historians have given different theories in this regard so i am writing a brief overview.

1. Agnikul Theory- that they emerged from sacred agni at mount abu as a result of havan performed by rishi vashishth. This is written in the bardic tradition.

2. Foreign Theory-Alexander Cunninghum, James Todd, Vincent Smith, R.n.Bhandarkar- That rajputs actually came along with foreign tribes like Hunas,Shakas, KUshanas, etc and thus are a later addition to the population  who later hinduised themselves.

3. Indian Theory- C.v.Vaidya- That rajputs are Chandravanshi and suryavanshi and are original Indians and pure Aryans who fought against muslim foreign invaders.

4. Mixed origin theory

5. B.D.Chattopadhay has stated that origin and emergence of rajputs was closely related to the political, social and economic developments of that time.