In
Hinduism, according to the Varna system, Vaishyas form the third community after
Brahmins and
Kshatriyas. It is believed that Vaishyas evolved from Brahma's thighs. Their duty is to serve the entire community through agriculture, cattle rearing and trade. Later, Vaishyas became traders and merchants and
Sudras came into agriculture and cattle rearing. Most of the trading communities, banias, were originated from the West Coast and Sind.
Chettiars and Mudaliars are the famous Vaishya communities in southern India. They have contributed numerous hospitals, universities and developing industries to the society.
