Introduction
Sonar or Sunar or Swarnkar is a Hindu caste in India that refers to the communities of goldsmiths, silversmiths and jewellers. The word, sonar, has been derived from the Sanskrit word “Suvarnakar” that means worker of gold.
Legend Behind Sonar Caste
In the Hindu legends it is said that the Sunars are the descendants of one of two Rajput brothers who were saved as boys by a Saraswat Brahmin from the wrath of Parasurama when he was destroying the Kshatriyas. The descendants of the other brother were the Khatris.
Divisions within Sonar Caste
There are five major groups of Sonars, and they are:
The Sonar community is organized into numerous territorial and non-territorial clans known as alla. These groupings reflect ancestral lineages and are often tied to specific regions. Prominent alla include Jhankhad, Santanpuriya, Lal Sultaniya, Dekhalantiya, Mundaha, Bhigahiya, Kulthiya, Parajiya, Samuhiya, Chilliya, Katiliya, Kalidarwa, Naubastwal, Berehele, Gedehiya, Shahpuriya, Mathureke Paliya, Katkaria, Nimkheriya, and Vaibhaha, among others. Each lineage maintains a strong connection to the geographical origins of its forebears.
When it comes to surnames, members of the Sonar community use a variety of titles such as Soni, Swarnkar, Verma, Wadichar, Saraf, Shah, Sonik, and Singh. These surnames often vary by region. For instance, in Gujarat and Rajasthan, the community is widely recognized as Soni, while in Haryana, names like Swarnkar, Soni, Suri, and Verma are common. In Sindh, they are known as Sonaro. Additionally, in Punjab and Haryana, the Mair community is also traditionally engaged in goldsmithing.
Sonar Caste in Modern Period
Historically recognized as skilled goldsmiths, the Sonar community has long held a vital place in Indian culture. However, with improved access to education, many within the community have begun to prioritize academic and professional advancement alongside their traditional craft. Despite this shift, Sonars continue to play a prominent role in traditional Hindu weddings across India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. In these ceremonies, brides often adorn themselves with elaborate gold jewelry, each piece a symbol of prosperity and legacy, meticulously crafted by Sonar artisans.
While the Sonar community is traditionally linked to goldsmithing, their expertise extends far beyond crafting gold. Across the Indian subcontinent, regardless of where they live, many Sonars have diversified into various facets of the jewelry industry. Some have mastered the art of diamond cutting, while others specialize in designing intricate jewelry pieces and religious idols, showcasing their versatility and artistic finesse in the world of ornamentation.
