Tyagi, originally called Taga, is a cultivator caste who claim Brahmin status.[1] The landholding community is confined to Western Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi and Rajasthan. They are often considered the highest of the agricultural castes.[2] During the British Raj, they changed their name from Taga to Tyagi, and began claiming Brahmin status.[3] As of a 1990 report by the Backward Classes Commission, Government of Haryana, they were mostly engaged in farming.[4][5] The Government of Haryana granted reservation to Tyagis along with five other castes in 2016.[6] However, the Punjab and Haryana High Court shortly put a stay on the government's order.[7]
| Regions with significant populations | |
|---|---|
| India | |
| Languages | |
| Punjabi • Urdu • Hindi • Khadi Boli | |
| Religion | |
| Hinduism • Islam | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| Garha • Jats • Gurjars • Meds |
Religion
The name Tyagi is prevalent in both Hindu and Muslim communities.[8] Community members who converted to Islam are known as Muslim Tyagis,[9] Mulla Brahmin, Musalman Taga, Mahesra and Moolay Taga.[10]
Diet
Members of the community are generally vegetarian but some do eat non-veg food.[11]
References
Further reading
- Brass, Paul R. (1965). Factional Politics in an Indian State: The Congress Party in Uttar Pradesh. University of California Press.
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