The main lineages

The Rajputs are divided into clans, each clan belonging to one of three basic lineages (vanshas or vamshas):

1. The Suryavanshi lineage, claiming descent from Surya, the Hindu Sun god. In English it is known as the Solar Dynasty;
2. The Chandravanshi lineage, or Lunar dynasty lineage claims descent from Chandra (the moon or Budh). The Chandravanshi lineage is known as the Lunar Dynasty in English;
   1. The Yaduvanshi lineage are a major sub-branch of the Chandravanshi lineage. Lord Krishna was born a Yaduvanshi.
   2. The Puruvanshi lineage are a major sub-branch of the Chandravanshi Rajputs. The Kauravs and Pandavs of the epic Mahabharata were Puruvanshis.
3. The Agnivanshi lineage claims descent from Agni, the Hindu god of fire. Four main Rajput clans are considered to be Agnivanshi. They are Chauhans, Paramara, Solanki and Pratiharas.

Each of these Vanshas or lineages is divided into several clans (kula), all of whom claim direct patrilineage from a remote but common male ancestor who supposedly belonged to that Vansha. Some of these 36 main clans are further subdivided into shakhas or "branches", again based on the same principle of patrilineage.

Each shakha or basic sub-clan has its individual genealogical creed, describing the essential peculiarities, religious tenets, and original domicile of the clan. This creed is a touchstone of traditional affinities and provides all information governing the laws of intermarriage.