Brahmins are said to occupy the highest position among the four varnas of Hinduism. The word brahmin is come form of the Sanskrit word Brāhmana; (Brahman also refers to the supreme self in Hinduism).

It is a misconception that brahmins are only priests.Only a subsect of brahmins were involved in the priestly duties. They also took up various other professions since late vedic ages like doctors, warriors, writers, poets, land owners, ministers, etc.

Parts of India were also ruled by Brahmin Kings. From Vedic times on, the Kings acted in close relationship with Brahmins and relied on them as their advisors, the Brahmins had become a powerful and influential group in India, and were known for discriminating against 'lower' castes.