Shrestha

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Shrestha or Shreshth (Nepali: श्रेष्ठ), (meaning 'superior' in Sanskrit) is a surname belonging to the community of people within the Newar caste in [[Nepal]. They originate from the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal.

Shrestha is also a common name in India. According to the Hindu varna or caste system, the Shrestha's fall under the Vaishya caste, which includes administrators, business-people, educators, intellectuals and agriculturists.

In Kathmandu, Nepal, during the rule of the Malla (Newar) kings, Shrestha's used to work mostly as educators and government workers. Most of the high ranking government officials were Shresthas.

Even amongst Shresthas, there is a differentiation of caste, called 'thari', the difference being mostly between "Panch thari" (5th level) and "Chha thari" (6th level). 6th level Shresthas are considered the higher caste amongst the two, and held higher government positions, like the finance minister. Some even changed their last names to Rajbhandari (meaning "Royal storage keeper").