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International Jat Day
Official nameInternational Jat Day
Also calledWorld Jat Day
Observed byJat community worldwide
TypeEthnic
CelebrationsHonouring Jat ancestors, cultural programs, Jat gatherings, Yagya rituals
DateApril 13
FrequencyAnnual
Related toJat culture and heritage

International Jat Day, also known as World Jat Day, is a special day celebrated every year on April 13[1] to honor the Jat community and their contributions to society.[2][3]

The JAT {Jaat (Hindu,Hindi), Jatt (Sikh,Punjabi), Jutt (Muslim,Urdu)} community is an ethnic group primarily found in India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, known for their cultural traditions and significant roles in Agriculture, Military, Politics, and Sports.[4]


International Jat Day is celebrated every year on April 13 by the Jat community worldwide. The observance highlights the rich cultural heritage and contributions of the Jats, who are historically linked to Aryan and Indo-Scythian lineages.[5]


The community includes various subgroups such as Jat, Jatt, and Jutt, across different regions of India and abroad. The Jats are believed to have descended from Indo-Scythian tribes.[6] The community has played a key role in the socio-economic development of North India.[7]

The Jat community has origins traceable to at least the 4th century CE in northern India. Some scholars suggest they may be referenced as "Jartas" in the Mahabharata, composed between approximately 400 BCE and 300 CE.[8]

History

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The idea of International Jat Day began in 2015 when a group of Jat leaders from around the world came together to celebrate their shared culture and history. This initiative was led by the Jat Mahasabha, an organization founded in the early 1900s by Jat leaders in India to promote unity and preserve the community's traditions. The day was created to highlight the Jat community's achievements and to bring Jats from different parts of the world closer together.[9]

Historical Jat Kingdoms (Riyasats)

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The Jat community has a rich history of ruling various kingdoms and states across India, particularly in Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, and Sindh. Below is a list of notable Jat Riyasats (Kingdoms):

  • Ballabgarh - A Jat kingdom near modern Faridabad, Haryana, ruled by the Tewatia Jat clan until the British took over in the 19th century.[10]
  • Bharatpur - A major Jat kingdom in Rajasthan, ruled by the Sinsinwar Jat clan, most famous under Maharaja Suraj Mal in the 18th century.[11]
  • Dholpur - Another Jat state in Rajasthan, closely tied to Bharatpur and ruled by the Bamraulia Jat clan.[12]
  • Gohad - A Jat state in Madhya Pradesh, ruled by the Rana Jat clan, which later aligned with Bharatpur.
  • Jangladesh (Shekhsar) - A Jat kingdom in northern Rajasthan, ruled by the Godara Jat clan under Pandu Godara in the 15th century, controlling about 700 villages before its annexation by Rao Bika's Rathores.[13]
  • Jind (Sikh Misl) - A Jat-ruled Sikh state in Haryana, also part of the Phulkian dynasty, established in the 18th century.[14]
  • Johiya Clan Territories (Jangladesh) - The Johiya Jat clan ruled areas in Bahawalpur, Multan, and Bikaner, mentioned as a kingdom during ancient times.
  • Kaikan - A Jat kingdom in Sindh, mentioned as a powerful state around 857 CE, with boundaries from China to the sea.[15]


  • Kuchesar - A Jat-ruled zamindari in Uttar Pradesh, controlled by the Mandyani Jat clan in the 18th and 19th centuries.[16]
  • Mankir - A Jat kingdom mentioned in Sindh, with its ruler praised by historian Sulaiman Nadwi in 857 CE.[17]
  • Mursan - A Jat-ruled state in Uttar Pradesh, known for its zamindari under the Thenua Jat clan in the 18th century.[18]
  • Nabha (Sikh Misl) - Another Jat-led Sikh state in Punjab, also founded by the Phulkian Jat clan, closely related to Patiala.[19]
  • Nehrun - A Jat state in Sindh, ruled by the Nehra Jat clan during Muhammad bin Qasim's invasion in 710 CE.[20]
  • Patiala (Sikh Misl) - A Jat-led Sikh state in Punjab, part of the Sikh Confederacy, founded by the Phulkian Jat clan in the 18th century.[21]
  • Rania - A Jat state in Haryana, ruled by the Sirsa Jat clan, which later became part of the Sikh territories.[22]
  • Reni (Jangladesh) - A Jat kingdom in Rajasthan, with its capital at Reni (now Taranagar), ruled by the Jakhar Jat clan.[23]
  • Shivi (Madhyamika) - An ancient Jat republic near Chittor, Rajasthan, mentioned during Alexander the Great's invasion in 326 BCE.[24]
  • Sidhmukh (Jangladesh) - A kingdom in modern Rajasthan, ruled by the Chahar Jat clan in the 13th century.[25]
  • Sukerchakia Misl (Punjab) - A Jat-led Sikh misl that eventually led to Maharaja Ranjit Singh's empire, founded by the Sukerchakia Jat clan.[26]
  • Thalora (Jangladesh) - A small Jat state in Rajasthan, ruled by the Bhukar Jat clan, part of the Jangladesh region.[27]
  • Tijara - A Jat-ruled state in Rajasthan, controlled by the Punia Jat clan in the medieval period before Mughal dominance.[28]
  • And Many More.

Significance

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International Jat Day is an important occasion for the Jat community. It's a time to celebrate their traditions, remember their history, and take pride in their identity. The day also serves as a reminder of the contributions Jats have made to society, especially in areas like farming and the military. Many Jats use this day to pay tribute to historical figures like Maharaja Suraj Mal, a famous Jat ruler of Bharatpur in Rajasthan, who is often called the "Plato of Jats"[29] for his wisdom and leadership.

The day also promotes unity and brotherhood among Jats worldwide. It's a chance for the community to come together, share their stories, and strengthen their bonds, no matter where they are in the world.[30]

Celebrations

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On International Jat Day, Jat communities organize various events and activities. These include cultural programs, gatherings, and ceremonies to honor their heritage.

In places like Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, people hold events such as Jat Milan ceremonies, where community members meet, share meals, and discuss their history. In Bhiwani, Haryana, a Jat Milan ceremony was organized on April 13, 2023, to mark the occasion.[31] Similarly, in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, the day was celebrated with cultural programs and discussions about the Jat community's role in society.[32]

Some communities also perform rituals like yagya (a traditional Hindu fire ceremony) to mark the day. For instance, in Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh, a yagya was held on International Jat Day in 2023 to pray for unity and prosperity.[33]

Cultural Importance

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The Jat community has a long history of being hardworking and resilient. They are often associated with the slogan "Jat Balwan, Jai Bhagwan[34]'' (Hail the Soldier), ''Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan" (Hail the Farmer), which reflects their contributions as both farmers and soldiers. A global Jat convention highlighting the community's history and culture is set to take place in Brampton.[35]

International Jat Day also helps younger generations connect with their roots. It's a day to learn about Jat history, values, and traditions, ensuring that the community's legacy continues to thrive.

The Jats are an agrarian community with a rich cultural and historical legacy, believed to have roots tracing back to Indo-Scythian and Aryan tribes.[36] Over centuries, they have played a significant role in the socio-political and economic life of North and North-West India.[37]

The celebration of International Jat Day on April 13 is a symbolic tribute to the contributions and heritage of the Jat community. The day is marked by cultural events, community gatherings, and ceremonies that honor the Jat ancestors and legacy.[38]

Muslims Jats Jat Muslims participate in cultural observances like International Jat Day, held annually on April 13, to commemorate Jat traditions and history.[39][40]

Sikh Jats Sikh Jats observe International Jat Day on April 13 each year, featuring cultural programs and community gatherings to honor their heritage.[41][42]

Hindu Jats Hindu Jats celebrate International Jat Day annually on April 13, with events like Jat Milan ceremonies and yagya rituals to commemorate their cultural traditions.[43][44]

References

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  1. ^ "13 अप्रैल इंटरनेशनल जाट दिवस" [International Jat Day will be celebrated on 13 April]. Amar Ujala (in Hindi). 12 April 2024. Retrieved 13 April 2025.
  2. ^ "जाट मिलन समारोह: अंतरराष्ट्रीय जाट दिवस के उपलक्ष्य में जाट मिलन समारोह भिवानी में 13 को". Dainik Bhaskar. 6 April 2023.
  3. ^ "International Jat Day: Why is this day important and who started it?". News9live. 13 April 2023. Retrieved 13 April 2025.
  4. ^ Dahiya, B.S. (1980). The Jats: Their Role & Contribution to the Socio-economic Life and Polity of North & North-west India, Volume 3. Sterling Publishers Pvt. Ltd. ISBN 978-81-88629-68-8..
  5. ^ Mahal, Bhupinder Singh (2015). Origin of Jat Race: Tracing Ancestry to the Scythians of Antiquity. New Delhi: Munshiram Manoharlal Publishers. ISBN 978-81-215-1283-1.
  6. ^ Bhupinder Singh Mahal, Origin of Jat Race: Tracing Ancestry to the Scythians of Antiquity, Munshiram Manoharlal Publishers, 2015.
  7. ^ Vir Singh (ed.), The Jats: Their Role and Contribution to the Socio-Economic Life and Polity of North and North-West India, Vol. II, M/S Originals, 2006.
  8. ^ Sharma, J.P. (1989). Republics in Ancient India. New Delhi: Gyan Publishing House. p. 45.
  9. ^ "International Jat Day: Why is this day important and who started it?". News9live. 13 April 2023.
  10. ^ Singh, Vir (2007). The Jats: Their Role & Contribution to the Socio-economic Life and Polity of North & North-west India, Volume 3. Low Price Publications. ISBN 978-81-88629-68-8.
  11. ^ Richards, John F. (2001). The Mughal Empire. Cambridge University Press. p. 250. ISBN 978-0-521-25119-8.
  12. ^ Imperial Gazetteer of India, Vol. 11. Oxford: Clarendon Press. 1908. p. 315.
  13. ^ Qanungo, K. R. (2003). History of the Jats. Delhi: Originals. ISBN 81-7536-299-5.
  14. ^ Gupta, Hari Ram (2001). History of the Sikhs, Vol. IV: The Sikh Commonwealth or Rise and Fall of Sikh Misls. Munshiram Manoharlal. ISBN 978-81-215-0165-1.
  15. ^ Qanungo, K. R. (2003). History of the Jats. Delhi: Originals. ISBN 81-7536-299-5.
  16. ^ Sharma, Ashish (16 August 2024). "Two-day global Jat convention to be held in Brampton from Aug 17". Hindustan Times.
  17. ^ Qanungo, K. R. (2003). History of the Jats. Delhi: Originals. ISBN 81-7536-299-5.
  18. ^ Qanungo, K. R. (2003). History of the Jats. Delhi: Originals. ISBN 81-7536-299-5.
  19. ^ Singh, Kuldip (1995). "Obituary: The Maharaja of Nabha". The Independent.
  20. ^ Elliot, Henry M. (1867). The History of India, as Told by Its Own Historians, Vol. 1. London: Trübner & Co.
  21. ^ Gupta, Hari Ram (2001). History of the Sikhs, Vol. IV: The Sikh Commonwealth or Rise and Fall of Sikh Misls. Munshiram Manoharlal. p. 256. ISBN 978-81-215-0165-1.
  22. ^ Singh, Vir (2007). The Jats: Their Role & Contribution to the Socio-economic Life and Polity of North & North-west India, Volume 3. Low Price Publications. ISBN 978-81-88629-68-8.
  23. ^ Deshraj, Thakur (2002). Jat Itihas (in Hindi). Delhi: Rajpal & Sons.
  24. ^ Majumdar, R. C. (1971). The History and Culture of the Indian People, Vol. 2: The Age of Imperial Unity. Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan.
  25. ^ Vir Singh (ed.), The Jats: Their Role and Contribution to the Socio-Economic Life and Polity of North and North-West India, Vol. II, M/S Originals (Low Priced Publications), 2006.
  26. ^ Singh, Rishi (2015). State Formation and the Establishment of Non-Muslim Hegemony: Post-Mughal 19th-century Punjab (PDF). SAGE Publications. ISBN 978-93-5150-504-4.
  27. ^ Deshraj, Thakur (2002). Jat Itihas (in Hindi). Delhi: Rajpal & Sons.
  28. ^ Deshraj, Thakur (2002). Jat Itihas (in Hindi). Delhi: Rajpal & Sons.
  29. ^ "Suraj Mal".
  30. ^ "International Jat Day: Why is this day important and who started it?". News9live. 13 April 2023.
  31. ^ "Jat Milan Ceremony in Bhiwani". Bhaskar. 2023-04-13.
  32. ^ "International Jat Day Celebrated in Muzaffarnagar". Amar Ujala. 2023-04-13.
  33. ^ "Yagya on International Jat Day in Bulandshahr". Live Hindustan. 2023-04-13.
  34. ^ "Jat Regiment".
  35. ^ Hindustan Times
  36. ^ Bhupinder Singh Mahal, Origin of Jat Race: Tracing Ancestry to the Scythians of Antiquity, Munshiram Manoharlal Publishers, 2015.
  37. ^ Vir Singh (ed.), The Jats: Their Role and Contribution to the Socio-Economic Life and Polity of North and North-West India, Vol. II, M/S Originals (Low Priced Publications), 2006.
  38. ^ Krishan Chander Dahiya, The Jats: Linguistic, Genetic, Historical and Cultural Synthesis, Amazon Kindle, 2020.
  39. ^ "13 अप्रैल इंटरनेशनल जाट दिवस" [International Jat Day on 13 April]. Amar Ujala (in Hindi). Amar Ujala Limited. 12 April 2024. Retrieved 13 April 2025.
  40. ^ "Muslim Jats want to be part of court battle, move HC over reservation". The Times of India. 9 July 2016.
  41. ^ "जाट मिलन समारोह: अंतरराष्ट्रीय जाट दिवस के उपलक्ष्य में भिवानी में 13 को" [Jat Milan Ceremony: Event in Bhiwani on 13 April for International Jat Day]. Dainik Bhaskar (in Hindi). DB Corp Ltd. 6 April 2023. Retrieved 13 April 2025.
  42. ^ "Punjab's Jat Sikhs and their political dominance". The Times of India. 9 March 2022.
  43. ^ "Yagya on International Jat Day in Bulandshahr". Live Hindustan (in Hindi). 13 April 2023. Retrieved 13 April 2025.
  44. ^ Kumar, Anuj (19 September 2020). "Rename museum after Surajmal, demand Jats". The Hindu.
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