Ramgarhia Community are Sikh castes, mainly located in the Punjab region of India. They are named after Jassa Singh Ramgarhia who was the leader of the Ramgarhia Misl. The original caste name of the Ramgarhias was carpenter by their occupation. The largest concentration of Ramgarhias is in Ludhiana, which also houses the central secretariat of the Ramgarhia Central Federation.
History of Ramgarhia Community
The Ramgarhia community came into existence with the rose of a new leader, Jassa Singh Ramgarhia. When Sikhs became the dominant force in Punjab and captured Amritsar, their leader Jassa Singh Ramgarhia, built the fort "Ram Rauni" and changed the name of the clan to Ramgarhia. He, along with his father, Bhagwan Singh and brothers helped Zakariya Khan in a number of battles and were rewarded with several jagirs. The history of this community witnessed a long battle with Mir Mannu, the Mughal governor of Punjab. They have also helped the national leaders in the Indian independence struggle.
Legend of Sardar Jassa Singh of Ramgarhia Community
Jassa Singh became famous in Sikh history as Jassa Singh Ramgarhia. Adina Beg Khan, the Imperial Governor of the Jullundur Doab, exercised great influence in the Punjab. As there was constant quarrelling between him and the Sikhs, Baron Jassa Singh was sent to him as their ambassador by the Sikhs. Adina Beg Khan was so pleased with him that he granted all the demands of the Sikhs. He gained reputation as a soldier of daring and skill. Moreover, Adina Beg took him and his brothers into his service and made him the Tahsildar over a large district. He remained for a long time in the service of the Governor.
Society of Ramgarhia Community
The society of the Ramgarhia community is a close knit one where marriages are not held extravagantly. As a community they have served the country soldiers, politicians, religious leaders and vary other ways. Historically, the Ramgarhia community has had strong links with the Jat tribes, with whom they have been very close friends and allies; a close bond that continues to this day.
Profession of Ramgarhia Community
Ramgarhias were traditionally carpenters but included other artisan occupations such as stonemasons and blacksmiths. Generally, Sikh carpenters use Ramgarhia as a surname.