Introduction
The Anavil community of Gujarat is one of the oldest and most influential Brahmin groups in western India. Their origins are deeply rooted in both mythology and history, with traditions tracing back to The Era of Lord Rama. The name “Anavil” carries centuries of cultural, social, and administrative importance. Unlike many Brahmin groups who retained priestly roles, the Anavils embraced an agrarian lifestyle. Despite this shift, they played a decisive role in shaping the political, economic, and cultural fabric of south Gujarat, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and leadership.
Mythological Origins
According to the Skanda Purana, when Rama returned from Lanka after defeating Ravana, he visited the hermitage of Sage Agastya. At the sage’s request, Rama performed a ritual of expiation at Anadisidha. Since no Brahmins were present, Ajachak Brahmins were summoned from the Himalayas. Though Rama offered them dakshina, they refused, saying they had only fulfilled their duty. Angered by their refusal, Rama deprived them of priestly privileges and assigned them agricultural duties instead. These Brahmins are believed to be the ancestors of the Anavil caste, later divided into the Naik and Vashi groups.
Another version of the story suggests that Rama gifted villages such as Sitapur, Hanumanbari, Lakshmanpur, and Vanarvel to Brahmins after the sacrifice. The settlement came to be known as Anaval, where Rama himself established the deity Shukleshwer Mahadev. This sacred place, also called Anadipur or Anadikshetra, lies in present-day Valsad district near Mahuva.
Settlement and Lineage
Historical accounts mention that 12,000 Brahmins from twelve gotras migrated from the Himalayas and married daughters of the Sesha tribe. Of these clans, ten settled in Anaval, while others moved to Katargaun near Surat and Varitapiya, later known as Vashis. The Anavils claim descent from sages of the Yajur Veda period, including Vasishtha, Atri, Kashyapa, Bharadwaja, Kanva, and Gautama.
Flourishing City and Administration
The Anavil community once thrived in a flourishing city, mentioned in Abul Fazl’s Ain-i-Akbari, which recorded that Anaval had a stone fort. Historical records show that Anavil Brahmins ruled over an area of 1,280 square kilometres, with 90 temples dedicated to Shiva. During the Mughal era, they managed seven forts in south Gujarat, including Saler, Muller, Gambhirgadh, Suvarnagadh, Rupgadh, and Anaval. The leaders of these forts were known as Naiks, reflecting their strong administrative skills and political influence.
Decline and Migration
In Vikram Samvat 1152, Anaval faced destruction when a Bhil warrior named Vanshiaattacked during a mass wedding ceremony. Hundreds perished, and many brides committed sati. Survivors migrated to Surat and nearby regions, with Commander Samdhar Vashi founding Palsana village. Though Vanshia was later defeated with the help of Maharaja Siddharaj Solani, the curse on Anaval prevented its reoccupation.
Social and Economic Role
Unlike other Brahmins, the Anavils became land-owning farmers (grabasthas) and played a central role in bringing south Gujarat under cultivation. Known as Desais, they were entrusted with revenue collection under both Mughal and British rule. Their influence was so strong that entire groups of villages were managed by Anavil families, with each head styled as a Desai or talukdar. They also contributed significantly to the development of Surat, where many localities still bear their names.
Modern Contributions
In the early 20th century, many Anavils joined the railway and insurance sectors, with the Western Railway even nicknamed the “Anavila Railway”due to their dominance. The community also played a vital role in India’s freedom struggle, especially during Mahatma Gandhi’s Dandi March, when Navsari became a hub of resistance.
Present-Day Community
Today, several hundred thousand Anavils live across villages between Surat and Vapi, and in cities like Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Surat, and Navsari. Many migrated abroad, particularly to Africa and England, contributing to global diaspora networks. Despite modern changes, the Anavils continue to preserve their heritage while adapting to new opportunities.
Conclusion
The Anavil community represents a remarkable blend of myth, history, and social evolution. From their legendary origins in the time of Rama to their role as administrators, farmers, and freedom fighters, the Anavils have left an indelible mark on Gujarat’s cultural and political landscape. Their Journey reflects resilience, adaptability, and a deep connection to tradition, making them one of the most distinguished communities in India’s history.