Chitpawans are related to Kashmiri Pandit community. A large group of Kashmiri pandits migrated from Kashmir to south Konkan via Karachi (presently in Pakistan). It is interesting to note that a 'Bodan' ritual of chitpawanas and 'Kanakipooja' ritual of Kashmiri pandits are similar. Both the communities are Shaivaites. Kashmiri pandits have anthropological origin from Kushans, a race from Europe. Anthropologically, Chitpawanas are related to Jews and Persians.

According to one theory, the origin of Chitpavans lies at or near Ambejogai in the Bhir (Beed) district, where their titular deity Yogeshwari is located.