Samvedi

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Samvedi Brahmins are an Indian Hindu Brahmin community known for their musical heritage. They traditionally followed the Sama Veda and are believed to have origins in Odisha (historically called Utkala or Kalinga). They are also known as Shamedi near Vasai, a name linked to their history as entertainers in royal courts.

Historically, Samvedis performed music and dance in royal palaces and temples, using instruments such as the sanai (shehnai), choughada, mridanga, bheri, and veena, especially during dawn and night worship at temples in Vasai, including the Nirmal Jagadguru Shankaracharya Samadhi Mandir.

Their Vasai history is tied to ancient temples and local legends. The community faced destruction during Portuguese rule, but was later revived with the help of local leaders and reformers. Over time, many Samvedis diversified beyond music into other professions.

Today, Samvedis are found in several Indian states, especially Maharashtra (Vasai) and Odisha, as well as West Bengal, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh. They speak multiple languages, including Samvedi, Marathi, Odia, Hindi, Bengali, and Telugu. Many are involved in politics, medicine, education, construction, business, and management, while others continue work in cultural arts.