List of gotras

The word gotra means "lineage" in the Sanskrit language. While it is akin to a family name, the given name of a family is often different from its gotra; given names may reflect the traditional occupation, place of residence or other important family characteristic rather than gotra.

Gotra also can mean cow, land, veda and guru.

People belonging to a particular gotra generally are of same caste in the Hindu social system.[1] However, there is a notable exception among matrilineal Tulu / Malayalee speakers, for whom the lineages are the same across the castes.

People of the same gotra are generally not allowed to marry.[2] At weddings, the gotras of the bride and the groom are read aloud to verify that they are not breaking this rule. [3]

Main Hindu gotras

General list template

References

  1. "Shri Osiya Mataji - Osvansh - Oswal Gotra History". shriosiyamataji.org.
  2. Harris, Gardiner (April 24, 2015). "Online Matchmaking Adds a Twist to Arranged Marriages in India". New York Times (New York). Retrieved April 24, 2015. By the time the fathers discovered that their families were of the same gotra, or subcaste, generally making marriage taboo, their children had texted and emailed enough that they were hooked.
  3. "Information regarding Gotras". salagram.net.