Gandhabanik
 |
| Gandhabanik গন্ধবণিক | |
|---|---|
| Kuladevi (female) | Gandheshwari |
| Religions | Hinduism |
| Languages | Bengali |
| Populated states | West Bengal |
Gandhabanik is a Bengali Hindu trading caste, who as the caste name suggests, traditionally used to trade in perfumes, incense and spices. Chinese traveller Fa Hien referred to the Gandhabaniks as a Hindu business community.[citation needed] In spring, the Gandhabaniks pay homage to Gandheshwari, the goddess of perfume.[citation needed]
Religion
The Gandhabaniks were initially Shaivas, later they became Shaktas. Later, they turned towards Vaishnavism during reform movement of Chaitanya.[citation needed] However, titular deity Gandheshwari is still worshipped.
