Dear All,
Let me ask a different question to worthy members. The question is; JAT ka kya Dharam hona chahiye? Let us for a moment forget as to whether we are Hindus or not or followed Buddhism. I don’t claim to be a very learned person but I am certain of one thing and that is that JATS never believed in the Hindu religion as practiced by the discriminating Brahmins.
There is no logical and conclusive written material available that suggests that JATS were followers of Buddhism or Hinduism as practised by Brahmins. Our traits and core value systems suggest that we never followed any religion, never believed in idol worship and even did not support any particular sect, whether an offshoot of Hinduism or otherwise. Whatever seemed fair to the land tilling JAT was accepted. That a village was a republic of sorts and self sufficient can’t be denied. An undeniable fact is that JATS, whatever religion they may be following, occupy the most cultivable and prosperous regions of the world. This is a tribute to our ancestors’ bravery and chivalry. Whether JATS came to India from Central Asia or went from India to other areas should not matter.
A true JAT believes in fair play, impartiality, competition and justice. He is hardworking and honest. If these parameters are met then he is law abiding and follows rules of the state / nation. He is respectful to the fairer sex, believes in ‘Bhaichara’ and is large hearted. He will never follow leader of a religious sect blindly. A true JAT can never enjoy idol worship, though he would occasionally bow in front of a symbolic temple erected for his forefathers. A JAT can never be a spendthrift and may even be considered miser by others. However, he can be a great showoff too! JAT Bheli de de, ganda na de!
I find no other community that can lead their lives in as simple a manner as JATS. Frankly speaking and without trying to argue with more learned members, I have never considered my self to be following a religion. While filling up the columns of an application, I have to write ‘Hindu’ because I can’t write JAT. As an individual I have decided that my religion is JAT. Period!
Best regards,
JS Malik