BHATRAS (the term bhatra appears to be a diminutive of the Sanskrit bhatta, a bard), an endogamous and tightly knit group among the Sikhs with peddling and fortunetelling as their principal occupations. More than one story is current about their origin. However, the Bhatras themselves trace it to Baba Changa Rai of Sangladip (Ceylon), who was admitted as a disciple by Guru Nanak during his journey to the South. His name figures in the old text Haqiqat Rah Mukam Raje Shivanabh Ki. Changa Rai, himself a devout Sikh with a substantial following, added the suffix "Bhatra" to his name.
CHANGA, BHAI, a Bahil Khatri, was a devoted Sikh of the time of Guru Arjan. Once he, along with Bhai Phirna and Bhai Jetha of the same clan, waited on Guru Arjan. They had a question: "Some repeat the name of Rama, others of Krsna, some repeat Om, others Soham. We have been taught to meditate on Vahiguru. Tell us.
