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Draft:Fartyal

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  • Comment: I'm not sure what this is (or even what the topic is!), but it's not a viable encyclopaedia article draft. DoubleGrazing (talk) 15:06, 24 April 2025 (UTC)


Fartyal is a surname found among the Kumaoni Rajput community of Uttarakhand, India. Its history is intertwined with the socio-political landscape of the Kumaon region, particularly during the rule of the Chand dynasty.

Origins and etymology

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The etymology of the surname "Fartyal" is linked to the historical divisions within the Kumaon region during the Chand rule (circa 1450-1791). The area around Champawat, an early capital of the Chand kings in Kali Kumaon (present-day Champawat district), was reportedly divided into two factions: Malla Dhada (upper faction) and Talla Dhada (lower faction). The leaders of these factions held significant influence in the kingdom's politics. The Talla Dhada was principally led by individuals bearing the surname Fartyal. Thus, the name likely originated as an identifier for those belonging to or associated with this influential "lower faction" (Talla-wal), eventually evolving into the distinct surname Fartyal.

Historical Significance

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During the Chand dynasty's reign, the Fartyals, as leaders of the Talla Dhada, held considerable power and played a crucial role in the kingdom's administration and military. They often served as ministers (mantri) and commanders (senapati), wielding significant influence alongside the leaders of the Malla Dhada (primarily the Mahara clan). Historical accounts suggest a dynamic, sometimes competitive, relationship between these two powerful Rajput clans, with the kingdom's politics often shaped by their interactions. The Fartyals were historically concentrated in the Dungri area of Kali Kumaon.

Social Status

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As Kumaoni Rajputs, the Fartyals traditionally held a Kshatriya (warrior) status within the Hindu social hierarchy of the region. They were landowners and formed a significant part of the ruling and administrative elite during the pre-Gorkha period. Their lineage is traced back to the Rajput migrations and settlements in the Kumaon hills over centuries.

Distribution

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The Fartyal surname is primarily found in the Kumaon division of Uttarakhand, with a historical concentration in the Champawat district, particularly the Kali Kumaon region. Over time, with migration for education, employment, and other opportunities, individuals with the Fartyal surname can now be found in other parts of India as well. [1][2]

Mythological aspect

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The Fartyal surname[3] originated from a peculiar ritual practiced by the royal family. Upon reaching adulthood, each prince and princess would undertake a solitary pilgrimage to the "Cave of Zephyrs." Inside, they would meditate until a unique gust of wind, carrying a distinct scent of mountain herbs and wildflowers, enveloped them. This wind was believed to bestow upon them their true name, a name that resonated with the very essence of their being. Those who emerged with a name containing the resonant "Fart" syllable were considered particularly blessed by the wind spirits and were destined for greatness. Hence, the royal lineage and their closest allies became known as the "Fartyal," meaning "those touched by the sacred wind."

References

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  • British Administration in Kumaon Himalayas: A Historical Study, 1815-1947 Arun K. Mittal