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{{Use Indian English|date=September 2017}}
{{Use Indian English|date=September 2017}}
{{Infobox royalty
{{Infobox royalty
| title             = Maharaja Agrasen
| title       = Maharaja
| image             = Maharja Agrasena.jpeg
| name        = Agrasen
| caption           =  
| image       = Maharja Agrasena.jpeg
| predecessor       = Maharaja Vallabh
| caption     =  
| successor         = Shail
| predecessor = Maharaja Vallabhsen
| queen             = Nandini
| successor   = Shail
| issue             = Vibhu
| queen       = Nandini
| royal house       =  
| issue       = Vibhu
| dynasty           = [[Solar dynasty|Suryavanshi]]
| royal house = Raghuvansham
| father             = Maharaja Vallabh
| dynasty     = {{ubl|[[Suryavamsha]] /[[Ikshvaku dynasty|Ikshvaku]]|[[Raghuvaṃśa (dynasty)|Raghuvamsha]]}}
| mother             = Bagwati Devi
| father       = Maharaja Vallabh
| mother       = Bhagwati Devi
}}
}}
'''Agrasen''' was a legendary Indian king of [[Agroha Mound|Agroha]], a city of traders. He is the descendant of [[Kusha (Ramayana)|Kush]], son of lord [[Rama|Ram]]{{citation needed|date=June 2022}} and he was born in 35th generation after lord [[Rama|Ram]]. He is credited with the establishment of a kingdom of traders in North India named Agroha, and is known for his compassion in refusing to slaughter animals in ''[[yajna]]s''. On suggestion of goddess [[Lakshmi|Mahalakshmi]] he gave up [[Kshatriya]] tradition and opted [[Vaishya]] tradition and she also gave her words of bestowing prosperity there for him and his descendants.
'''Agrasen''', most commonly known as '''Maharaja''' (literally, ''great king'') '''Agrasen''', was a legendary Indian king of [[Agroha Mound|Agroha]], a city of traders in the district of [[Hisar district|Hisar]], [[Haryana]]. He is a descendant of the [[Hinduism|Hindu]] deity, Shri [[Rama|Ramchandra]]'s elder son, [[Kusha (Ramayana)|Kush]]. He is credited with the establishment of a kingdom of traders in Northern India named [[Agroha Mound|Agroha]], and is known for his compassion in refusing sacrificial slaughter of animals in ''[[yajna]]s.'' Goddess [[Lakshmi|Mahalakshmi]] bestowed prosperity for him and his descendants.{{Citation needed|date=December 2024}}


The Government of India issued a postage stamp in honour of Agrasen in 1976.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.agarwalsabha.org/agradhara/2016/sep16.pdf |title=Maharaja Agrasen Dak Ticket Samaroh ki kuchh Yaden, Omprakash Agrawal, Agradhara, Sept 2016, p. 32  |access-date=22 October 2018 |archive-date=22 February 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170222184750/http://agarwalsabha.org/agradhara/2016/sep16.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=KCR Praises Vaisyas to Skies, Says The Community Knows Art of Life|url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/telangana/KCR-Praises-Vaisyas-to-Skies-Says-The-Community-Knows-Art-of-Life/2014/09/26/article2449852.ece}}</ref>
The [[Agrawal]]s, a community of traditional traders from northern India, regard Maharaja Agrasen as their forefather and a historical figure who established the foundations of their community in the [[Agroha Mound|Kingdom of Agroha]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Maharaja Agrasen |url=https://www.agrohadhaam.org/maharaja-agrasen |access-date=2024-10-26 |website=Agroha Vikas Trust {{!}} Agroha Dhaam India |language=en}}</ref> In fact, the term [[Agrawal]] means "descendants of Agrasen" or "people of [[Agroha Mound|Agroha]]".
 
{{Multiple image
| total_width      = 252
| image1            = Stamp of India - 1976 - Colnect 327901 - Maharaja Agrasen Commemoration.jpeg
| alt1              = The image depicts a commemorative stamp issued by India in 1976 honoring Maharaja Agrasen. The stamp features an illustration of Maharaja Agrasen, often depicted in royal attire, emphasizing his historical significance as a revered figure in the Agrawal community. The background is typically adorned with traditional motifs, highlighting his connection to Indian culture and heritage. The stamp serves to celebrate his legacy and the values he represents, particularly in relation to the Agrawal community’s origins.
| caption1          = Postage stamp issued by the [[Government of India]] in 1976, commemorating [[Maharaja Agrasen|Maharaja Agrasen's]] 5100th [[Agrasen Jayanti|birth anniversary.]]
| image2            = Agrasen maldives.jpg
| alt2              = A regal depiction of Maharaja Agrasen, a legendary king revered in Indian history and mythology, seated on a grand throne adorned with intricate designs and flanked by two lions symbolizing strength and royalty. He is portrayed in traditional royal attire, with elaborate jewelry and a crown, holding a scepter. The artwork has a vibrant blue background with decorative floral patterns, enhancing the royal aura. The text at the bottom identifies him as "Maharaja Agrasen," with additional inscriptions describing the artwork was crafted for a Maldives postage stamp in 2016. The entire design reflects a blend of respect, reverence, and artistic grandeur dedicated to the king's legacy.
| caption2          = Postage stamp issued by the [[Maldives]] in 2016 on Maharaja Agrasen's birth anniversary.<ref name=":10"/>
| direction        = vertical
}}
 
The occasion of his birth anniversary called [[Agrasen Jayanti]] is celebrated in the Indian states of [[Haryana]], [[Punjab, India|Punjab]], [[Rajasthan]], and [[Uttar Pradesh]] where it is recognized as a [[Public holidays in India|public]] or a gazetted holiday.<ref>{{Cite news |date=15 December 2023 |title=Government of Punjab, Department of Personnel |url=https://punjab.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/List-of-Holidays-2024.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241007094817/https://punjab.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/List-of-Holidays-2024.pdf |archive-date=7 October 2024 |access-date=27 October 2024 |work=Notification from Government of Punjab, Department of Personnel}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=22 December 2023 |title=Haryana Government, Department of Human Resources, Notification |url=https://csharyana.gov.in/WriteReadData/Notifications-%26-Orders/Human-Resources-I/14136.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240315083650/https://csharyana.gov.in/WriteReadData/Notifications-%26-Orders/Human-Resources-I/14136.pdf |archive-date=15 March 2024 |access-date=27 October 2024 |work=Haryana Government, Department of Human Resources, Notification }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=9 October 2023 |title=Government of Rajasthan, The General Administration Department Notification |url=https://gad.rajasthan.gov.in/details/Calendar_2024_09102023.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240529121353/https://gad.rajasthan.gov.in/details/Calendar_2024_09102023.pdf |archive-date=29 May 2024 |access-date=27 October 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=2024 Public Holiday Calendar {{!}} Government of Uttar Pradesh {{!}} India |url=https://meerut.nic.in/notice/2024-public-holiday-calendar/ |access-date=2024-10-27 |language=en-US}}</ref> The [[Government of India]] in 1976 commemorated the 5100th [[Agrasen Jayanti|birth anniversary]] of Maharaja Agrasen by issuing a [[commons:File:Stamp_of_India_-_1976_-_Colnect_327901_-_Maharaja_Agrasen_Commemoration.jpeg|postage stamp]] depicting him,<ref>{{cite web |title=KCR Praises Vaisyas to Skies, Says The Community Knows Art of Life |url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/telangana/KCR-Praises-Vaisyas-to-Skies-Says-The-Community-Knows-Art-of-Life/2014/09/26/article2449852.ece |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140926130518/http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/telangana/KCR-Praises-Vaisyas-to-Skies-Says-The-Community-Knows-Art-of-Life/2014/09/26/article2449852.ece |archive-date=26 September 2014}}</ref><ref>{{Citation |last=India |first=Post of |title=English:  Stamp |date=1976 |url=https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Stamp_of_India_-_1976_-_Colnect_327901_-_Maharaja_Agrasen_Commemoration.jpeg |access-date=2024-10-27}}</ref> and so did [[Maldives]] in 2016 as a tribute to the contributions of the [[Agrawal]] community, a prominent business group in India, in the growing trade relationship between the Maldives and India.<ref name=":10">{{Cite news |date=1 October 2016 |title=Maldives issues special postage stamp on Maharaja Agrasen |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/maldives-issues-special-postage-stamp-on-maharaja-agrasen/articleshow/54629467.cms?from=mdr |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210524220533/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/maldives-issues-special-postage-stamp-on-maharaja-agrasen/articleshow/54629467.cms?from=mdr |archive-date=24 May 2021 |access-date=27 October 2024 |work=Economic Times}}</ref> The eastern wing of the modern day [[Agroha Dham]] [[Hindu temple|temple]] is dedicated to Maharaja Agrasen, serving as a significant cultural and heritage center for the Agrawal community.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Agroha dhaam |url=https://www.agrohadhaam.org/agroha-dhaam |access-date=2024-10-26 |website=Agroha Vikas Trust {{!}} Agroha Dhaam India |language=en}}</ref>


[[File:Agrasen ki Baoli, New Delhi, India - 20070127.jpg|250px|thumb|[[Agrasen ki Baoli]] in [[Delhi]]. The current structure was built in the 14th century by the [[Agrawal]] community, which traces its origin to King Agrasen.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.agrasenkibaoli.com |title=Agrasen Ki Baoli |publisher=AgrasenKiBaoli.com |access-date=2015-08-04}}</ref> It is believed that the original structure was built by the king Agrasen<ref>Mittal, J.P. (2006), History of Ancient India (4250&nbsp;BC to 637&nbsp;AD) page 675, {{ISBN|978-81-269-0616-1}} (This author considers King Agrasen an actual historical figure)</ref> during the [[Mahabharat]] epic era.]]
[[File:Agrasen ki Baoli, New Delhi, India - 20070127.jpg|250px|thumb|[[Agrasen ki Baoli]] in [[Delhi]]. The current structure was built in the 14th century by the [[Agrawal]] community, which traces its origin to King Agrasen.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.agrasenkibaoli.com |title=Agrasen Ki Baoli |publisher=AgrasenKiBaoli.com |access-date=2015-08-04}}</ref> It is believed that the original structure was built by the king Agrasen<ref>Mittal, J.P. (2006), History of Ancient India (4250&nbsp;BC to 637&nbsp;AD) page 675, {{ISBN|978-81-269-0616-1}} (This author considers King Agrasen an actual historical figure)</ref> during the [[Mahabharat]] epic era.]]


== Origin of the legend ==
== History ==
[[File:Agroha Dhaam Hindu Temple.jpg|alt=The image showcases the grand entrance to the **Agroha Dham Hindu temple**, with three towering, ornately decorated structures rising prominently against an overcast sky. The central structure is the tallest, with a distinctive brownish-red facade adorned with symmetrically placed windows and carved niches that add depth and texture. Its dome has a rounded, layered design crowned with a golden pinnacle at the top. Flanking the central tower are two slightly shorter towers, each adorned with vibrant colors and intricate artwork. Both towers have sky-blue panels accented with floral patterns and traditional Hindu motifs in hues of pink, gold, and red. The top of each of these side towers is capped with lotus-like structures, topped by golden finials. At the main entrance of the temple, a statue depicting a divine chariot pulled by horses and guided by warriors or deities stands prominently, drawing attention. Below the chariot, a large archway leads into the temple, with detailed architectural elements on either side. The steps leading up to the entrance are wide and surrounded by well-maintained greenery, with various plants, shrubs, and flowering bushes lining the walkway. The scene is bustling with visitors, some ascending the stairs towards the temple, while others are seen standing or moving around in groups. The pathway leading up to the temple is clean and well-kept, bordered by a trimmed lawn and decorative plants, contributing to the peaceful and reverent atmosphere.|thumb|250x250px|The grand entrance of the [[Agroha Dham]] [[Hindu temple]] located in [[Agroha (town)|Agroha]], [[Hisar district]], [[Haryana]]. The temple is dedicated to goddess [[Lakshmi|Mahalakshmi]], the [[Kuladevata|Kuladevi]] of the [[Agrawal]]s, who trace their origins to Agroha, whose foundations were laid by the great king [[Maharaja agrasen|Maharaja Agrasen]].]]
 
[[Bharatendu Harishchandra]] (1850-1885), a renowned [[Agrawal]] author and poet, compiled the legend of Maharaja Agrasen in his 1871 essay ''Agarwalon ki Utpatti'' ("Origins of Agrawals and Agrahari"). Bhartendu is not clear about his sources, stating that he compiled the legend from "tradition" and "ancient writings", naming one of these texts as ''Sri Mahalakshmi Vrat Ki Katha'' ("The Story of the Fast for Goddess Mahalakshmi"). He claimed to have found this text in a "later" part of the ''[[Bhavishya Purana]]'', which exists in several recensions. However, subsequent researchers were unsuccessful in tracing this text in any published version of the ''"Bhavishya Purana''.{{sfn|Babb|2004|p=199}} In 1976, the Agrawal historian Satyaketu Vidyalankar published a copy of the ''Mahalakshmi Vrat Ki Katha'' in his ''Agrwal Jati Ka Prachin Itihas'' ("Ancient History of the Agrawal caste"). He states that he had found this copy in the personal library of Bharatendu Harishchandra; some academics note that this copy does not contain any clue about its origin.{{sfn|Babb|2004|p=199}}


The Agrasen legend can be traced to ''Agarwalon ki Utpatti'' ("Origin of the Agarawals and Agrahari"), an 1871 essay written by [[Bharatendu Harishchandra]] (1850-1885), a noted Agrawal author and poet. He claimed to have compiled the legend from "tradition" and "ancient writings", especially a text called ''Sri Mahalakshmi Vrat Ki Katha''. He stated that ''Sri Mahalakshmi Vrat Ki Katha'' was contained in the ''[[Bhavishya Purana]]'', which exists in several recensions. However, independent researchers have been unable to find the legend in any version of ''Bhavishya Purana''.{{sfn| Lawrence A. Babb|2004|p=199}}
== Legend ==
Agrasen was a [[Kshatriya]] king of the [[Solar dynasty|Sūryavaṃśi]] dynasty who adopted the [[Vanika]] dharma for the benefit of his people. He was the ruler of ''Khandavprasth'', ''Ballabhgarh'', and ''Agr [[Janapada]]'' (present-day [[Delhi]], [[Ballabhgarh]], and [[Agra]]).<ref name=":0">{{Cite book |last=Bhartendu Harischandra |url=https://archive.org/details/agarwalon-ki-utpatti-bhartendu-harischandra/Agarwalon%20Ki%20Utpatti%20-%20Bhartendu%20Harischandra |title=Agarwalon Ki Utpatti Bhartendu Harischandra}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=About Maharaja Agrasen – Maharaja Agrasen Medical College, Agroha (Haryana) |url=https://mamc.edu.in/about-maharaja-agrasen/ |access-date=2024-10-27 |language=en-US}}</ref>


In 1976, the Agrawal historian Satyaketu Vidyalankar published a copy of the ''Mahalakshmi Vrat Ki Katha'' in his ''Agrwal Jati Ka Prachin Itihas'' ("Ancient History of the Agrawal caste"). He stated that he had found this copy in the personal library of Bharatendu Harishchandra. However, the text does not contain any clue about its origin.{{sfn| Lawrence A. Babb|2004|p=199}}
According to [[Bharatendu Harishchandra|Bharatendu Harishchandra's]] account, Maharaja Agrasen was born on 15th September 3082 [[Anno Domini|BC]], or in 4250 [[Anno Domini|BC]] on the first day of [[Ashvin (month)|Ashvin]] [[Shukla Paksha]], in the last stages of [[Dvapara Yuga]], or the beginning of [[Kali Yuga]]. He was the eldest son of [[Solar dynasty|Sūryavaṃśi]] Maharaja Vallabhsen and Queen Bhagwati Devi of Pratapnagar (in present-day [[Rajasthan]]) and the elder brother of Shursen.<ref name=":0" /> Maharaja Agrasen was claimed to be a 34th-generation descendant of the lineage of [[Rama|Lord Rama's]] elder son, [[Kusha (Ramayana)|Kush]]. At the age of 15, Agrasen fought in the [[Kurukshetra War|Mahabharata]] war alongside the [[Pandava]]s. [[Krishna|Lord Krishna]] proclaimed that Agrasen would be a ''yug purush,'' or "man of the age," and an [[avatar]] in the [[Kali Yuga]].
 
=== Marriage to Madhavi ===
He was married to Madhavi, the daughter of the serpent king [[Nagaraja]] Kumud, with whom [[Indra]] was also smitten. When she chose Agrasen as her husband, [[Indra]], the lord of thunderstorms and rain could not bear her loss and created a drought in Pratapnagar. The famine in Agrasen's kingdom forced him to go to war against Indra, but sage [[Narada]] brokered peace.<ref name=":0" />
 
=== Agrasen's Austerities ===
Maharaja Agrasen went to the city of [[Kāshi]] and performed intense [[Tapas (Indian religions)|''tapasya'']] (austerity) for the welfare of his subjects. Pleased with his devotion, [[Shiva|Lord Shiva]] advised him to perform ''tapasya'' for [[Lakshmi|Goddess Lakshmi]]. Goddess Lakshmi, pleased with his selfless austerities, granted him a boon: “Establish a new kingdom and, while following the principles of [[Kshatriya]] [[dharma]], nurture and protect your kingdom and subjects! Your kingdom will always be filled with wealth and abundance.” [[Lakshmi|Goddess Lakshmi]] is the [[kuldevi]] of (many) [[Agrawal]]s.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Agarwālā {{!}} Indian Caste, Social Hierarchy & Endogamy {{!}} Britannica |url=https://www.britannica.com/topic/Agarwala |access-date=2024-10-27 |website=www.britannica.com |language=en}}</ref>


== Agrawal gotras ==
== Agrawal gotras ==
{{main article|Agrawal}}
{{main | Agarwal#Gotras | l1= Agarwal gotras  }}


According to Bharatendu Harishchandra's narrative, the Agrawals are divided into seventeen and a half [[gotra]]s (exogamous clans), which came into being from seventeen and a half sacrifices performed by Agrasen. The last sacrifice is considered "half" because it was abandoned after Agrasen expressed remorse for the violent animal sacrifices. Bharatendu also mentions that Agrasen had 17 queens and a junior queen, but does not mention any connection between these queens and the formation of the gotras. Neither does he explain how sacrifices led to the formation of the gotras.{{sfn|Lawrence A. Babb|2004|pp=201-202}} Another popular legend claims that a boy and girl from the Goyan gotra married each other by mistake, which led to the formation of a new "half" gotra.{{sfn|M. S. Gore|1990|p=69}}
Per Bharatendu Harishchandra, the Agarwals are organized into seventeen and a half [[gotra]]s ([[Exogamy|exogamous]] clans), which came into being from seventeen and a half sacrifices performed by Agrasen. The last sacrifice is considered "half" because it was abandoned after Agrasen expressed remorse for the violent animal sacrifices. Bharatendu also mentions that Agrasen had 17 queens and a junior queen, but does not mention any connection between these queens and the formation of the gotras. Neither does he explain how sacrifices led to the formation of the gotras.{{sfn|Babb|2004|pp=201-202}}


Historically, there has been no unanimity regarding number and names of these seventeen and a half gotras, and there are regional differences between the list of gotras. The Akhil Bhartiya Agrawal Sammelan, a major organization of Agrawals, has created with a standardized list of gotras, which was adopted as an official list by a vote at the organization's 1983 convention.{{sfn|Lawrence A. Babb|2004|pp=193-194}} Because the classification of any particular gotra as "half" is considered insulting, the Sammelan provides a list of following 18 gotras:{{sfn|Lawrence A. Babb|2004|p=192}}
Historically, due to regional differences there has been no single unanimous list of these seventeen and a half gotras. In 1983, The Akhil Bhartiya Aggarwal Sammelan, a major organization of [[Agrawal]]s (also [[Baranwal]]s), ratified a list of Agarwal gotras.{{sfn|Babb|2004|pp=193-194}} To avoid classification of any particular gotra as "half", the Sammelan provides a list of following 18 gotras:{{sfn|Babb|2004|p=192}}


{{columns-list|colwidth=15em|
{{columns-list|colwidth=15em|
# Bansal
# Garg
# Goyal
# Goyal
# Kucchal
# Kucchal (Agrahari)
# Kansal
# Kansal
# Bindal
# Bindal
Line 46: Line 70:
# Tingal
# Tingal
# Tayal
# Tayal
# Garg
# Bansal
# Bhandal
# Bhandal
# Nangal
# Nangal
Line 55: Line 79:
}}
}}


The existence of all the gotras mentioned in the list is controversial, and the list does not include several existing clans such as Kotrivala, Pasari, Mudgal, Tibreval, and Singhla.{{sfn|Lawrence A. Babb|2004|p=193}}
The list does not include several existing clans such as Kotrivala, Pasari, Mudgal, Tibreval, and Singhla.{{sfn|Babb|2004|p=193|ps=:"...a few ostensible clan names appeared (Koṭrīvālā, Pasārī, Mudgal, Ṭibṛevāl, Singhlā) that do not appear on the official list of 18."}}
 
==Legacy ==
 
* Anniversary
** [[Agrasen Jayanti]]
* [[Maharaja Agrasen College|Education]]
** [[Delhi]]
*** [[Maharaja Agrasen College]] of the [[University of Delhi]] in Vasundhara Enclave
*** Maharaja Agrasen Institute Of Technology of  [[Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University]] in [[Rohini, Delhi|Rohini]]
** Haryana
*** [[Maharaja Agrasen Institute of Management and Technology]] at Yamunanagar
*** [[Maharaja Agrasen College, Jagadhri]] at Yamunanagar
*** [[Maharaja Agrasen Medical College, Agroha]] in Hisar in Haryana
** [[Himachal Pradesh]]
*** [[Maharaja Agrasen University]] at Solan district
** [[Uttar Pradesh]]
*** Maharaja Agrasen College of Engineering and Technology
* [[Maharaja Agrasen Hospital (disambiguation)|Hospital]]
** [[Maharaja Agrasen Hospital (Bangalore)]]
** [[Maharaja Agrasen Hospital (New Delhi)]] at Palam
* Other
** [[Agrasen ki Baoli]]
** [[Hisar Airport|Maharaja Agrasen International Airport, Hisar]]


==See also==
==See also==
* [[Agrasen Jayanti]]
 
* [[Agrasen ki Baoli]]  
* [[Agroha Mound#Development|Agroha development plan]]
* [[List of Hindu empires and dynasties]]


==References==
==References==
Line 65: Line 113:


=== Bibliography ===
=== Bibliography ===
{{ref begin}}
{{refbegin}}
* {{cite book |author=Lawrence A. Babb |title=Alchemies of Violence: Myths of Identity and the Life of Trade in Western India |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=74tUY0le33UC&pg=PA200 |year=2004 |publisher=SAGE |isbn=978-0-7619-3223-9 }}
{{cite book |first=Lawrence A. |last=Babb |title=Alchemies of Violence: Myths of Identity and the Life of Trade in Western India |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=74tUY0le33UC&pg=PA200 |year=2004 |publisher=SAGE |isbn=978-0-7619-3223-9 |page=199}}
* {{cite book |author=M. S. Gore |author-link=Madhav Sadashiv Gore |title=Urbanization and Family Change |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=GpLeY2_oT8kC&pg=PA69 |year=1990 |publisher=Popular Prakashan |isbn=978-0-86132-262-6 }}
{{refend}}
{{ref end}}


==External links==
==External links==
*[http://www.agrasen.com/agrasen.html Maharaja Agrasen] at agrasen.com
*[http://www.agrasen.com/agrasen.html Maharaja Agrasen] at agrasen.com


[[Category:Characters in Hindu mythology]]
[[Category:Legendary Indian people]]
[[Category:People from Hisar district]]
[[Category:People from Hisar district]]

Latest revision as of 23:55, 28 December 2025


Agrasen
Maharaja
PredecessorMaharaja Vallabhsen
SuccessorShail
ConsortNandini
IssueVibhu
HouseRaghuvansham
Dynasty
FatherMaharaja Vallabh
MotherBhagwati Devi

Agrasen, most commonly known as Maharaja (literally, great king) Agrasen, was a legendary Indian king of Agroha, a city of traders in the district of Hisar, Haryana. He is a descendant of the Hindu deity, Shri Ramchandra's elder son, Kush. He is credited with the establishment of a kingdom of traders in Northern India named Agroha, and is known for his compassion in refusing sacrificial slaughter of animals in yajnas. Goddess Mahalakshmi bestowed prosperity for him and his descendants.[citation needed]

The Agrawals, a community of traditional traders from northern India, regard Maharaja Agrasen as their forefather and a historical figure who established the foundations of their community in the Kingdom of Agroha.[1] In fact, the term Agrawal means "descendants of Agrasen" or "people of Agroha".

The image depicts a commemorative stamp issued by India in 1976 honoring Maharaja Agrasen. The stamp features an illustration of Maharaja Agrasen, often depicted in royal attire, emphasizing his historical significance as a revered figure in the Agrawal community. The background is typically adorned with traditional motifs, highlighting his connection to Indian culture and heritage. The stamp serves to celebrate his legacy and the values he represents, particularly in relation to the Agrawal community’s origins.
Postage stamp issued by the Government of India in 1976, commemorating Maharaja Agrasen's 5100th birth anniversary.
A regal depiction of Maharaja Agrasen, a legendary king revered in Indian history and mythology, seated on a grand throne adorned with intricate designs and flanked by two lions symbolizing strength and royalty. He is portrayed in traditional royal attire, with elaborate jewelry and a crown, holding a scepter. The artwork has a vibrant blue background with decorative floral patterns, enhancing the royal aura. The text at the bottom identifies him as "Maharaja Agrasen," with additional inscriptions describing the artwork was crafted for a Maldives postage stamp in 2016. The entire design reflects a blend of respect, reverence, and artistic grandeur dedicated to the king's legacy.
Postage stamp issued by the Maldives in 2016 on Maharaja Agrasen's birth anniversary.[2]

The occasion of his birth anniversary called Agrasen Jayanti is celebrated in the Indian states of Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh where it is recognized as a public or a gazetted holiday.[3][4][5][6] The Government of India in 1976 commemorated the 5100th birth anniversary of Maharaja Agrasen by issuing a postage stamp depicting him,[7][8] and so did Maldives in 2016 as a tribute to the contributions of the Agrawal community, a prominent business group in India, in the growing trade relationship between the Maldives and India.[2] The eastern wing of the modern day Agroha Dham temple is dedicated to Maharaja Agrasen, serving as a significant cultural and heritage center for the Agrawal community.[9]

Agrasen ki Baoli in Delhi. The current structure was built in the 14th century by the Agrawal community, which traces its origin to King Agrasen.[10] It is believed that the original structure was built by the king Agrasen[11] during the Mahabharat epic era.

History[edit | edit source]

The image showcases the grand entrance to the **Agroha Dham Hindu temple**, with three towering, ornately decorated structures rising prominently against an overcast sky. The central structure is the tallest, with a distinctive brownish-red facade adorned with symmetrically placed windows and carved niches that add depth and texture. Its dome has a rounded, layered design crowned with a golden pinnacle at the top. Flanking the central tower are two slightly shorter towers, each adorned with vibrant colors and intricate artwork. Both towers have sky-blue panels accented with floral patterns and traditional Hindu motifs in hues of pink, gold, and red. The top of each of these side towers is capped with lotus-like structures, topped by golden finials. At the main entrance of the temple, a statue depicting a divine chariot pulled by horses and guided by warriors or deities stands prominently, drawing attention. Below the chariot, a large archway leads into the temple, with detailed architectural elements on either side. The steps leading up to the entrance are wide and surrounded by well-maintained greenery, with various plants, shrubs, and flowering bushes lining the walkway. The scene is bustling with visitors, some ascending the stairs towards the temple, while others are seen standing or moving around in groups. The pathway leading up to the temple is clean and well-kept, bordered by a trimmed lawn and decorative plants, contributing to the peaceful and reverent atmosphere.
The grand entrance of the Agroha Dham Hindu temple located in Agroha, Hisar district, Haryana. The temple is dedicated to goddess Mahalakshmi, the Kuladevi of the Agrawals, who trace their origins to Agroha, whose foundations were laid by the great king Maharaja Agrasen.

Bharatendu Harishchandra (1850-1885), a renowned Agrawal author and poet, compiled the legend of Maharaja Agrasen in his 1871 essay Agarwalon ki Utpatti ("Origins of Agrawals and Agrahari"). Bhartendu is not clear about his sources, stating that he compiled the legend from "tradition" and "ancient writings", naming one of these texts as Sri Mahalakshmi Vrat Ki Katha ("The Story of the Fast for Goddess Mahalakshmi"). He claimed to have found this text in a "later" part of the Bhavishya Purana, which exists in several recensions. However, subsequent researchers were unsuccessful in tracing this text in any published version of the "Bhavishya Purana.[12] In 1976, the Agrawal historian Satyaketu Vidyalankar published a copy of the Mahalakshmi Vrat Ki Katha in his Agrwal Jati Ka Prachin Itihas ("Ancient History of the Agrawal caste"). He states that he had found this copy in the personal library of Bharatendu Harishchandra; some academics note that this copy does not contain any clue about its origin.[12]

Legend[edit | edit source]

Agrasen was a Kshatriya king of the Sūryavaṃśi dynasty who adopted the Vanika dharma for the benefit of his people. He was the ruler of Khandavprasth, Ballabhgarh, and Agr Janapada (present-day Delhi, Ballabhgarh, and Agra).[13][14]

According to Bharatendu Harishchandra's account, Maharaja Agrasen was born on 15th September 3082 BC, or in 4250 BC on the first day of Ashvin Shukla Paksha, in the last stages of Dvapara Yuga, or the beginning of Kali Yuga. He was the eldest son of Sūryavaṃśi Maharaja Vallabhsen and Queen Bhagwati Devi of Pratapnagar (in present-day Rajasthan) and the elder brother of Shursen.[13] Maharaja Agrasen was claimed to be a 34th-generation descendant of the lineage of Lord Rama's elder son, Kush. At the age of 15, Agrasen fought in the Mahabharata war alongside the Pandavas. Lord Krishna proclaimed that Agrasen would be a yug purush, or "man of the age," and an avatar in the Kali Yuga.

Marriage to Madhavi[edit | edit source]

He was married to Madhavi, the daughter of the serpent king Nagaraja Kumud, with whom Indra was also smitten. When she chose Agrasen as her husband, Indra, the lord of thunderstorms and rain could not bear her loss and created a drought in Pratapnagar. The famine in Agrasen's kingdom forced him to go to war against Indra, but sage Narada brokered peace.[13]

Agrasen's Austerities[edit | edit source]

Maharaja Agrasen went to the city of Kāshi and performed intense tapasya (austerity) for the welfare of his subjects. Pleased with his devotion, Lord Shiva advised him to perform tapasya for Goddess Lakshmi. Goddess Lakshmi, pleased with his selfless austerities, granted him a boon: “Establish a new kingdom and, while following the principles of Kshatriya dharma, nurture and protect your kingdom and subjects! Your kingdom will always be filled with wealth and abundance.” Goddess Lakshmi is the kuldevi of (many) Agrawals.[15]

Agrawal gotras[edit | edit source]

Main article: Agarwal gotras

Per Bharatendu Harishchandra, the Agarwals are organized into seventeen and a half gotras (exogamous clans), which came into being from seventeen and a half sacrifices performed by Agrasen. The last sacrifice is considered "half" because it was abandoned after Agrasen expressed remorse for the violent animal sacrifices. Bharatendu also mentions that Agrasen had 17 queens and a junior queen, but does not mention any connection between these queens and the formation of the gotras. Neither does he explain how sacrifices led to the formation of the gotras.[16]

Historically, due to regional differences there has been no single unanimous list of these seventeen and a half gotras. In 1983, The Akhil Bhartiya Aggarwal Sammelan, a major organization of Agrawals (also Baranwals), ratified a list of Agarwal gotras.[17] To avoid classification of any particular gotra as "half", the Sammelan provides a list of following 18 gotras:[18]

  1. Garg
  2. Goyal
  3. Kucchal (Agrahari)
  4. Kansal
  5. Bindal
  6. Dharan
  7. Singhal
  8. Jindal
  9. Mittal
  10. Tingal
  11. Tayal
  12. Bansal
  13. Bhandal
  14. Nangal
  15. Mangal
  16. Airan
  17. Madhukul
  18. Goyan

The list does not include several existing clans such as Kotrivala, Pasari, Mudgal, Tibreval, and Singhla.[19]

Legacy[edit | edit source]

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ "Maharaja Agrasen". Agroha Vikas Trust | Agroha Dhaam India. Retrieved 26 October 2024.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 "Maldives issues special postage stamp on Maharaja Agrasen". Economic Times. 1 October 2016. Archived from the original on 24 May 2021. Retrieved 27 October 2024.
  3. ↑ "Government of Punjab, Department of Personnel" (PDF). Notification from Government of Punjab, Department of Personnel. 15 December 2023. Archived (PDF) from the original on 7 October 2024. Retrieved 27 October 2024.
  4. ↑ "Haryana Government, Department of Human Resources, Notification" (PDF). Haryana Government, Department of Human Resources, Notification. 22 December 2023. Archived (PDF) from the original on 15 March 2024. Retrieved 27 October 2024.
  5. ↑ "Government of Rajasthan, The General Administration Department Notification" (PDF). 9 October 2023. Archived (PDF) from the original on 29 May 2024. Retrieved 27 October 2024.
  6. ↑ "2024 Public Holiday Calendar | Government of Uttar Pradesh | India". Retrieved 27 October 2024.
  7. ↑ "KCR Praises Vaisyas to Skies, Says The Community Knows Art of Life". Archived from the original on 26 September 2014.
  8. ↑ India, Post of (1976), English: Stamp, retrieved 27 October 2024
  9. ↑ "Agroha dhaam". Agroha Vikas Trust | Agroha Dhaam India. Retrieved 26 October 2024.
  10. ↑ "Agrasen Ki Baoli". AgrasenKiBaoli.com. Retrieved 4 August 2015.
  11. ↑ Mittal, J.P. (2006), History of Ancient India (4250 BC to 637 AD) page 675, ISBN 978-81-269-0616-1 (This author considers King Agrasen an actual historical figure)
  12. ↑ 12.0 12.1 Babb 2004, p. 199.
  13. ↑ 13.0 13.1 13.2 Bhartendu Harischandra. Agarwalon Ki Utpatti Bhartendu Harischandra.
  14. ↑ "About Maharaja Agrasen – Maharaja Agrasen Medical College, Agroha (Haryana)". Retrieved 27 October 2024.
  15. ↑ "Agarwālā | Indian Caste, Social Hierarchy & Endogamy | Britannica". www.britannica.com. Retrieved 27 October 2024.
  16. ↑ Babb 2004, pp. 201-202.
  17. ↑ Babb 2004, pp. 193-194.
  18. ↑ Babb 2004, p. 192.
  19. ↑ Babb 2004, p. 193:"...a few ostensible clan names appeared (Koṭrīvālā, Pasārī, Mudgal, Ṭibṛevāl, Singhlā) that do not appear on the official list of 18."

Bibliography[edit | edit source]

Babb, Lawrence A. (2004). Alchemies of Violence: Myths of Identity and the Life of Trade in Western India. SAGE. p. 199. ISBN 978-0-7619-3223-9.

External links[edit | edit source]

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