Khandayat are kshatriyas the martial cast of Odisha . their duties used to be the protection of mother land mainly as other Kshatriya community . in Odia language "Khanda" means the sword & "Ayat" means control by combining these two words the term came out which called Khandayat , that means the controller of the sword or the authority to hold the sword .
In ancient era Khandayat were mainly involved in Ruling their kingdoms . but this opportunity was for only few wealthy & powerful persons , while other Khandayat are appointed for protection of their country , they were also working as modern police to maintain law and order in the country . Khandayat or Kshatryas are second highest Cast in Hindu cast system after Brahmins . Khandayats were used to be great warriors their life was well disciplined & full of sacrifices to their country . now days they have lost all of their identity & wealth , at present Khandayats are involved in cultivation , business & all other jobs to fulfill their needs . but they are still living self respected & disciplined lives .
The main Khandayat Festival is Durga pooja or Vijaya Dashami on this festival they worship their Khandas ( swords) , as the sword is their Pride . because in ancient war swords had saved their lives & gave them all kind of honour.
