Monday, March 1, 2010

VISHWAKARMA

VISHWAKARMA


Vishwabrahmin also known as Vishwakarmas are a community or caste of artisans in India, who are the followers of Lord Vishwakarma. They are found all over India. They comprise blacksmith, carpenter, metalcraftsmanstone-carver, goldsmith.


Different names of Vishwabrahmin and its meaning

Vishwabrahmin are also known as Vishwakarma Brahmin since they have their origin from Lord Vishwakarma. They are called Panchal which means specialized in five different works; they are identical to Kavi, Madhvi, Suhastasour and Narashansha castes in ancient Vedic reference. They were called as rathakar because they used to make the chariot for ancient kings. In Madras they are called Karmmalar. Vishwakarma Brahmins / Vishwa brahmins are called with the following names.



In South India:

Achari

Acharya

Vishwakarma

Vishwabrahmin

Sharma

Chari, South India

Rao


In North India:

Panchal brahmin

Dhiman brahmin

Jangid brahmin

Maithil Brahmin

Ramgarhia

Mistry

Maharana

Sharma

Viswakarma

Tarkhan

Kalsi

Malik

Mahule


History

Vishwabrahmins are descended from five sons of lord Vishwakarma. They are Manu (blacksmith), Maya (carpenter), Thwastha (metal craftsman), Silpi (stone-carver) Vishvajnya (goldsmith). The community is spread widely throughout India and played a vital role in the village economy