The word Bania stems from a Sanskrit word Banijyas meaning trade. They
are by tradition the chief trading class in Haryana. The Banias are divided
into three main classes, the Aggarwalas, the Oswals and Maheshwaris. They
mostly confine themselves to local trade in Mandis (wholesale grain markets)
and in the villages. Though small in number they are quite influential
both in business and politics.
