Kshatriya
In the Hindu Concepts Created by the Brahmins for there Own Benifit “Kshatrya” is one of the Four varnas/“Four sects” (The Chatur Varna) in social orders of Hindu society and is associated with the warrior aristocracy. The other sects are “Brahmin”, “Vayshiya” and “Sudhra”.
In the Sikh concept Kshatriya (Pronounced:-Hindi-क्षत्रिय, Punjabi-ਛਤ੍ਰੀ)(Break down—|sh-uh-t-r-ih-y-uh|) means "ਸ਼ਸਤ੍ਰਧਾਰੀ(Carrier of Weapons)".Nihangs consider themselves as Kshatriyas, and that the whole Khalsa is Kshatriya. A Kshatriya is a Person who is Militarized is all about the warrior archetype. Some People try to Connect this with the Hindu Varna Kshatriya Traditions of Hawan, Aarti, Idol Worshipping, other Brahmin Rituals etc. As Kshatriya, the Sikhs are meant to carry weapons and not shy away from a just fight. For Sikhs this is not a Caste or a Varna but a Militarization of People of Different Backgrounds for oneselfs Protection.
Origin
The Sanskrit Expression, “Kshatriya” is made out of two different words, “Kshayam” and “Tranan.” Kshayam is “Decay” and Tranan,” “the aspect of overcoming.” Therefore, Kshatriya means, “The one who helps to overcome decay!”The earliest Vedic texts listed the Kshatriya (holders of kshatra, or "power and authority").
Status
Kshatriyas hence form warrior “military” class of people. Kings, presidents, and prime ministers are supposed to be kshatriyas, although, in the modern world this is rarely the case.By doing so, they ensured that the kingdoms do not erode (decay) its strength and always remained protected from any “internal” and “external” threats.Once you understand the “meaning” of the expression Kshatriya and their “Purpose,” it is easy to know what traits a Kshatriya is expected to have.
It is notable that several key figures in Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism were Kshatriyas, indicating the power and prestige that this group once held in ancient Indian society. Indeed, the famous religious leaders Gautama Buddha and Mahavira (as well as Hindu Deities Rama and Krishna) all belonged to this social order.
Difference Between Kshatriyas and Khatris
Khatris were mainly Bankers and Traders.They were the dominant commercial and financial administration class of late- medieval India.Khatris claim that they are Kshatriyas. While some historians agree with the claim of Khatris to be of Kshatriya varna, many others don't.In Indian historian Satish Chandra's opinion, certain castes like Khatris and Kayasthas "do not quite fit" in the Hindu Varna system. According to him, Khatris are neither Vaishyas nor Kshatriyas but are "par excellence traders".
Some scholars consider castes in north India, like Khatri and Kayastha to be merchant castes who claim higher status to befit the educational and economic progress they made in the past.The Saraswat Brahmins are the purohits of Khatris and accept gifts only from them.
