Yadav or Yadava (Sanskrit: यादव, yādava) is an Indian caste that claims descent from Yadu. Yadavas have been mentioned as one of the panchjanya tribes in ancient Vedic texts. In the Indian history particularly with reference to the Vedic Period the Yadavs had a great past,a glorious past and Yadavs were known for their bravery and diplomatic wisdom.^[1][2]Yadavs are said to be "naturally" predisposed to fight. The yadav-kshatriyas are not only considered to have predisposition to fight,but also to govern.^[3][4]

Yadavs generally follow Vaishnav traditions, share Dharmic religious beliefs, and are located in different parts of India andNepal. Traditionally, the Yadavs are classified under the Kshatriya varna in Hinduism.Yadavas/Ahir and their allied castes are the single largest community in India, estimated to constitute more than 11% of the Indian population.