Bhat is a noun that refers to a unit of currency used in India, Nepal, and Bhutan. It is the official currency in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir and is also legally accepted in the Indian-administered region of Ladakh. The term "bhat" is derived from the Sanskrit word "bharka," which means "coin."
The bhat is subdivided into 100 paisa, similar to the Indian rupee. However, in reality, the paisa is no longer used as a physical currency, and prices are often rounded to the nearest bhat. Banknotes in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 2,000 bhat are currently in circulation, displaying various historical figures and iconic landmarks.
Historically, there have been different variations of the bhat across regions and time periods. For instance, in the Indian historical region of Rajasthan, the term "bhat" is used to describe a caste of traditional singers and genealogists. Similarly, in parts of Uttar Pradesh, the Bhat community is known for their expertise in storytelling and recitations.
In summary, "bhat" generally denotes a unit of currency in India, Nepal, and Bhutan. However, it is also used to describe particular castes or communities with unique cultural roles and identities.
