What is "katoch"

Katoch is a Rajput clan of the Chandravanshi lineage, earlier known as Trigart Raje. Their traditional areas of residence was Trigarta Kingdom, Jalandhar, Multan.

Recent research suggests that the Katoch dynasty may be the oldest royal dynasty in the world. They first find mention in the Hindu epics Ramayana and Mahabharata, then in the era of Alexander the Great, during which time an area near to Kangra may have been ruled by a Katoch king. In the Mahabharata they are referred to as the Trigarta who fought Arjuna under the leadership of Susarma Chandra, who was an ally of Duryodhana and sworn enemy of the Virata and Matsya kingdoms.

In past centuries, they ruled several princely states in the region. The originator of the clan was Rajanaka Bhumi Chand. Their rulers include Sansar Chand II and Rajanaka Bhumi Chand, the latter being the founder of the Jwalamukhi temple in Himachal Pradesh.

Katoch clan has four branches: Jaswal clan, Guleria clan, Sibaia clan and Dadwal clan.