36 Biradri – Meaning, History, and Complete Cultural Guide

Introduction – Why “36 Biradri” Matters

If you’ve spent time in Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, or Western Uttar Pradesh, you’ve probably heard someone say — “Yeh baat poori 36 Biradri ke liye hai.” The phrase “36 Biradri” is deeply rooted in North Indian culture. It represents the idea of all communities together, regardless of caste, creed, or social background. Over centuries, the term has evolved from its literal reference to specific communities into a symbolic expression of unity.

In this blog, we’ll dive deep into what 36 Biradri actually means, its historical origins, the communities it refers to, and why it still holds relevance in today’s society.

What Does “36 Biradri” Mean?

The word “Biradri” means brotherhood or community in Hindi, Urdu, and Punjabi. The number “36” in “36 Biradri” is not always meant to be taken literally. In many cases, it is symbolic — representing all possible groups or communities.

When someone says something is for the puri 36 Biradri, they’re essentially saying it is for everyone, without exception. It’s an inclusive term, often used in public speeches, religious gatherings, and even in songs or slogans.

Historical Origins of 36 Biradri

The origin of the term dates back to medieval India. North Indian society was historically divided into different castes and sub-castes (varna and jati). In rural areas, people often referred to the collective of all major social groups as “36 Biradri”.

The number “36” was likely chosen for symbolic completeness, much like the number “12” in a dozen or “7” in days of the week. In certain regions, though, the term did correspond to an actual list of 36 specific communities, particularly in Haryana and Rajasthan.

The Actual Communities in 36 Biradri

While the exact list of 36 Biradri varies from region to region, here is a representative list commonly associated with Haryana and nearby areas. These include both agricultural and non-agricultural castes, reflecting the diversity of rural society:

1. Jat – Kheti ke mukhya kisaan
2. Gujjar – Kheti aur pashupalan
3. Ahir – Pashupalan aur doodh ka vyapar
4. Mali – Sabzi, phool, baghbani
5. Brahmin – Purohit, shiksha, dharmik kaam
6. Rajput – Yodha, kheti
7. Bania / Aggarwal – Vyapar, dukandari
8. Lohar – Iron ka kaam, hal–aala banane wale
9. Sunar – Sona-chandi ka kaam
10. Kumhar – Mitti ke bartan banane wale
11. Badhai – Lakdi ka kaam (carpenter)
12. Julaaha / Khatri – Kapda bunna
13. Chhippi / Rangrez – Kapde rangna
14. Darji – Silai ka kaam (tailor)
15. Mochi – Jute-chappal banana, leather ka kaam
16. Nai – Hajamat aur shaadi-byah ka kaam
17. Dhobi – Kapde dhona
18. Bairagi / Sadhu – Dharmik sewa
19. Teli – Tel ka vyapar / peshan
20. Bhat – Vanshavali likhne wale (genealogist)
21. Mirasi – Gaane-bajane wale
22. Faqir – Darwesh, bhiksha par jeevan
23. Chamar – Chamda ka kaam, mazdoori
24. Sansi / Dhedh – Gaon ke safai ka kaam
25. Bhisti – Paani bharna, pohochana
26. Jogi – Dharmik gyani, fakir
27. Kahar – Palaki uthana, saamaan dhona
28. Halwai – Mithai banana
29. Pasi – Taadi todna, mazdoori
30. Kanjr – Entertainment, natya
31. Bhangi – Safai karamchari
32. Meo – Vyapar, kheti (Mewat region)
33. Pathan – Vyapar, suraksha
34. Sheikh – Muslim vyapar jaati
35. Sayyed – Dharmik Muslim leader
36. Qureshi – Kasai (meat trade)

This list can vary. In Rajasthan, for example, Bishnoi and Rajput sub-clans might replace some names, while in Punjab, certain Sikh communities are included.

36 Biradri in Modern Times

Today, 36 Biradri has a broader meaning. It’s not just about caste groups — it’s about unity and inclusion. Politicians use the term to appeal to the masses, community leaders invoke it to promote harmony, and artists include it in songs and slogans for cultural pride.

In Haryana politics, for instance, leaders often say they work for “puri 36 Biradri” to show they represent every section of society. On social media, the term has become a trendy hashtag, often paired with cultural pride content.

Misconceptions About 36 Biradri

• Myth: It always means exactly 36 castes.
  Reality: In most cases, “36” is symbolic, meaning all communities.
• Myth: It’s only a rural concept.
  Reality: Urban communities also use the phrase in speeches and events.
• Myth: It’s casteist.
  Reality: When used in the spirit of unity, it’s meant to break caste barriers, not reinforce them.

Why Are People Searching “36 Biradri” More Now?

In recent years, interest in cultural terms like 36 Biradri has surged on Google, Instagram, and YouTube. Reasons include:

1. Political speeches going viral using the term.
2. Folk songs and Haryanvi music videos referencing it.
3. Cultural revival movements aiming to preserve regional phrases.
4. Social media hashtags making local terms trendy.

For many young people, learning about the meaning behind such phrases is a way to connect with their roots.

Cultural Significance

The beauty of “36 Biradri” lies in its adaptability. It’s a reminder that regardless of our differences, we share a common identity. Whether it’s in a wedding invitation addressed to “puri 36 Biradri” or a leader calling for unity, the term carries a sense of belonging.