The Protectors of Domestic Animals
The Vaisyas
For the most part the most important vaisyas earn
their livelihood by protecting cows. Some of the vaisyas are born from
lower-caste mothers and they are known as abhiras. (SSRKGD)
The Abhiras
The abhiras are those who have vaisya fathers and
sudra mothers. A little inferior to the vaisyas, who are engaged in cow
protection, the abhiras earn their livelihood by protecting buffalo.
They are known by various names, such as ghosa. (SSRKGD)
The Garjaras
A little inferior to the abhiras, the garjaras earn
their livelihood by protecting goats and similar animals. Their bodily
features are a little chubby and they reside on the outskirts of Vraja.
(SSRKGD)
The Brahmanas
Learned in all the Vedas, the brahmanas engage in
performing sacrifices, worshiping the Deity and other brahminical
occupations.
Two groups of brahmanas reside in Gokula: those
maintained by Nanda Maharaja and those who are priests engaged in the
performance of Vedic sacrifices. Among the priests, Vedagarbha,
Mahayajva and Bhaguri are prominent. Their respective wives are
Samadheni, Mahakavya and Vedika.
Sulabha, Gautami, Gargi, Candila, Kubjika, Vamani,
Svaha, Sulata, Sandili, Svadha and Bhargavi are the most important of
the brahmana ladies respectfully worshiped by the residents of Vraja. (SSRKGD)
The Bahisthas
The bahisthas earn their livelihood by engaging in
various trades and crafts. (SSRKGD)