Kashyap Rajput – Mehra Brotherhood Genealogy
According to Indian tradition, Maharishi Kashyap is regarded as one of the principal Prajapatis (progenitors of creation). In Vedic and Puranic traditions, he is considered the ancestor of many lineages and dynasties. From his wife Aditi was born Vivasvan (Surya, the Sun God), and from Surya and his wife Sanjna was born Vaivasvata Manu. Vaivasvata Manu is traditionally credited with establishing the Suryavansha (Solar Dynasty), one of the most ancient and illustrious royal lineages in Indian history.
The Solar Dynasty produced many great rulers, including Ikshvaku, Mandhata, Harishchandra, Sagara, Anshuman, Dilipa, Bhagiratha, Ambarisha, Raghu, Aja, Dasharatha, Lord Shri Rama, and Kush. This dynasty played a significant role in preserving Indian culture, dharma, and ideals of righteous governance through the ages.
Lineage Tradition
Maharishi Kashyap
↓
Aditi
↓
Vivasvan (Surya)
↓
Sanjna
↓
Vaivasvata Manu
↓
Suryavansha (Solar Dynasty)
From the Solar Dynasty to the Katyuri Dynasty
According to traditional genealogies, one branch of the Solar Dynasty later became known as the Katyuri Dynasty. Genealogical traditions of the Askot royal family mention that King Shalivahan Dev migrated from Ayodhya to Kumaon and established a powerful kingdom there.
These traditions state that the Katyuri rulers considered themselves Suryavanshi and traced their ancestry to Kush, the son of Lord Shri Rama. The term “Kushali” found in the copper plate inscriptions of Lalitsur Dev has also been interpreted by some scholars as being connected with the Kush lineage.
Some notable Katyuri rulers include:
• Shalivahan Dev
• Asantidev
• Vasantidev
• Prithvipal Dev
• Kirtivarma Dev
• Puraldev
• Lalitsur Dev
• Padmadev
• Nimbardev
• Indrapal Dev
• Katarmal Dev
• Brahmadev
At its height, the Katyuri Empire was one of the most influential powers in the Himalayan region. Its capital was Kartikeyapur (Katyur), and its influence extended across Kumaon, Garhwal, and neighboring territories.
The Askot Dynasty
During the later period of the Katyuri Dynasty, Abhaypal Dev, a descendant of Brahmadev, established the Askot branch of the family. Traditional records also mention rulers such as Atrakhdev and Tilakdev.
• Abhaypal Dev
• Atrakhdev
• Tilakdev
The Mehar Dynasty
The Mehar Dynasty occupies an important place in the history of Kumaon and Western Nepal. Mehar rulers and warriors exercised significant influence in regions such as Doti, Bajhang, Thal, and Kali Kumaon.
Traditional accounts mention the following Mehar rulers:
• Khadaku Singh Mahar (Bajhang)
• Sur Singh Mahar (Thal)
The Mehar lineage played a major role in regional politics, military organization, and administration. In Kali Kumaon, the influence of the Mahar and Fartyal factions was so strong that their participation in governance was considered essential.
Connection with the Chand Dynasty
During the rise of the Chand Dynasty in Kumaon, Mehar chiefs and military commanders also played an important role. Some notable Chand rulers were:
• Som Chand
• Bharati Chand
• Ratna Chand
The Four Aal (Military Commanders)
In the ancient military system of Champawat, four prominent Aal (military chiefs) were known for their leadership:
• Karki
• Bora
• Tadagi
• Chaudhary
These commanders led their respective forces and played important roles in defense, administration, and warfare.
Traditional Lineage Sequence
Maharishi Kashyap
→ Vivasvan (Surya)
→ Vaivasvata Manu
→ Suryavansha (Solar Dynasty)
→ Katyuri Dynasty
→ Askot Dynasty
→ Mehar Dynasty
→ Kashyap Rajputs (Mehra Brotherhood)
This traditional lineage connects the heritage of Kashyap Gotra, the Solar Dynasty, the Katyuri Empire, the Askot branch, and the Mehar Dynasty into a continuous cultural and genealogical tradition. Even today, many families remember this heritage as an important part of their ancestral and cultural identity.
Jai Maharishi Kashyap
Jai Suryavansha
Jai Katyuri Vansh
Jai Mehar Rajvansh
Jai Kashyap Rajput Samaj