The Agrawal community (also called Agarwal, Aggarwal, Agrawal Vaishya, or Bania Agrawal) is a prominent business and trading community of India, known for its enterprise, philanthropy, and social leadership.
The community traces its lineage to Maharaja Agrasen, a legendary king of Agroha (in present-day Haryana) who is believed to have lived during the Mahabharata period.
According to tradition, Maharaja Agrasen renounced violence and war, instead advocating for prosperity through trade, agriculture, and industry.
He established the kingdom of Agroha, which became a major center of commerce and governance.
Maharaja Agrasen is also credited with creating the principle of “one brick and one coin” – every family of Agroha would contribute one brick and one coin to help any new family settle, ensuring collective growth and security.
The Agrawal community is divided into 18 Gotras, each said to originate from Maharaja Agrasen’s descendants. Some traditions mention 17 + 1 = 18 Gotras. Examples include:
Goyal
Bansal
Mittal
Singhal
Jindal
Garg
Kansal
Tayal
...and others.
Each Gotra is linked with Vedic lineages and carries unique cultural significance.
Agrawals are spread across India and abroad, especially in Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra.
They are known for leadership in business, industry, banking, finance, politics, and education.
Many notable entrepreneurs, industrialists, and philanthropists belong to the Agrawal community.
Agrawals follow Vaishnav traditions, worshipping Maharaja Agrasen, Goddess Lakshmi (symbol of wealth), and Lord Vishnu.
Community organizations and samajs (societies) unite members socially, culturally, and religiously.
Agraseni Jayanti is celebrated annually, commemorating Maharaja Agrasen’s birth.
Agroha Dham is a major religious and cultural pilgrimage site of the Agrawal community, located near Hisar, Haryana. It is dedicated to Maharaja Agrasen, Goddess Mahalakshmi, and other deities.
Situated about 20 km from Hisar (Haryana) on National Highway 9 (Delhi–Sirsa road).
Well connected by road and rail, Agroha has become a spiritual center for Agrawals worldwide.
Maharaja Agrasen Temple
The central shrine dedicated to Maharaja Agrasen, honoring him as the founder of Agroha and the Agrawal community.
Mahalakshmi Temple
Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of prosperity and wealth, is worshipped here, reflecting the Agrawal ethos of prosperity with dharma.
Agrasen Kund (Sacred Pond)
A large water reservoir where devotees perform holy rituals and ceremonies.
Historically inspired by Maharaja Agrasen’s tradition of water conservation and community welfare.
Agroha Medical College & Hospital
Established near the temple premises, providing healthcare and education facilities in line with Maharaja Agrasen’s vision of welfare.
Festivals & Celebrations
During Navratri, large fairs (melas) and cultural programs are organized.
Thousands of Agrawals visit during Agraseni Jayanti celebrations.
Agroha Dham is not just a religious site but also a symbol of unity and identity for the Agrawal community. It represents:
Maharaja Agrasen’s ideals of non-violence, equality, and prosperity for all.
A cultural center that connects millions of Agrawals with their roots.
A modern-day pilgrimage where spirituality merges with social service (through schools, hospitals, and charitable activities).