Rajputization

Rajputs are a caste in the Indian caste system. They consisted of a mix of various different social groups and different varnas including Shudras and tribals. Rajputization explains the process by which such diverse communities merged into the Rajput community.
Rajputization of Chandelas, Gaharwars, Bundelas and Rathors.
The Chandel Rajputs were originally Hinduised Bhars or Gonds or both. When they became powlitically powerful, they became Kshatriyas or Rajputs. The Gaharwars similarly are associated with the Bhars the Bundelas and the northern Rathors are offshoots of the Garhawars. The Dharmasastras recognise the possibility of lower castes being elevated to higher castes.
Descent from the Muslims.
According to the sociologist Lyla Mehta, the Jadeja were Hindu descendents of a Muslim tribe that had migrated from Sindh to Kutch. They originated from pastoral communities and laid a claim on the Rajput identity after marriages with Sodha Rajput women.
Gujarat's Jadeja Rajputs were called "half-Muslim" and they employed Muslim African Siddi slaves for cooking.