Kanyakubja Brahmins are an endogamous Brahmin community mainly found in northern India. They are classified as one of the Pancha Gauda Brahmin communities native to the north of the Vindhyas.

Origins

The majority of the interviewees assert that the designation of the caste originates from the city of Kannauj, emphasizing that this name signifies a geographical association. The etymology of this caste is solely preserved through genealogies, oral traditions, mythical narratives, and proverbial accounts.

Occupation

Some of the Kanyakubja Brahmins were priests, astronomers, astrologers, or teachers, while others chose the career of soldier. They formed the best fighting element in Awadh next only to Rajputs.

Social status

In Uttar Pradesh, they are considered the highest class of Brahmins.

Notable people

• Ravishankar Shukla, first chief minister of Madhya Pradesh
• Shyama Charan Shukla, former chief minister of Madhya Pradesh
• Suryakant Tripathi, Indian poet and novelist.
• Atal Bihari Vajpayee, former Prime Minister of India