Kaji Pratha

Kaji Pratha (Nepali: काजी प्रथा) is the honorary hereditary practice that originated from medieval period in Nepal. After Shri Paanch Bada Maharaj Dhiraj Prithvi Narayan Shah completed the "Greater Nepal", he honored few families with the hereditary title of "Kaji" such as Kunwar family, Basnyat family, Pande family, Thapa family ,Khadka Family and also to few Bhandaris, Rayamajhi and Karkis with such respectful designation. Still Today Kaji surname is used By many Khas Kshetriya of Nepal like Thapa, Basnet, Kunwar, Khadka and many more to show them superior than other Khas Bahun Chhetri and Khatri of Nepal.

This honorary hereditary title is in existence even in today's time as respective castes are till date corresponded to with the title "Kaji" prior to one's family name. The respect that is to be provided to these elite classes of Kshatriya was even implemented to the likes of Brahmans, the highest of the Hindu castes. Ganesh Pande was the first Kaji under King Dravya Shah of Gorkha Kingdom.[1] He helped Dravya Shah to become King of Gorkha and was later appointed Kaji of Gorkha[note 1] in 1559 A.D.[2][3] Another significant Kaji of Gorkha was Kalu Pande born in the family of Ganesh Pande.[4] He was son of Bhimraj Pande who was also a Kaji during the reign of King Nara Bhupal Shah.[4]

Similarly, another form of Kaji System came into existence much later which was non-hereditary. The title "Kaji" was provided to the representative of the people's governing body. As it was non hereditary title this term was only enjoyed by the personal till he was incumbent to the King and the people.