India has a long and intertwined relationship with Buddhism, dating back over two thousand years to the time of Gautama Buddha. While Buddhism originated in India, its presence today is more concentrated in specific regions and among certain communities. One significant aspect of identifying Buddhist heritage within India is through surnames. A number of Indian surnames are commonly associated with Buddhist communities, especially among followers of Navayana Buddhism, which was popularized by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in the 20th century. Understanding Buddhist surnames in India not only gives insight into cultural and regional identities but also reflects the history of social change and spiritual transformation.
Historical Context of Buddhist Surnames in India
Ancient Roots and Modern Revival
During the ancient period, especially under the rule of emperors like Ashoka, Buddhism flourished across the Indian subcontinent. However, with time, it declined and saw a resurgence only in modern India, especially among Dalit communities who embraced Buddhism under the guidance of Dr. Ambedkar. This revival also brought about changes in naming conventions as new converts often adopted surnames to reflect their new identity, aspirations, and break from caste-based oppression.
Surnames as Markers of Identity
In India, surnames can indicate region, language, caste, and religious affiliation. For many Buddhists, particularly those who followed Dr. Ambedkar’s lead in converting to Buddhism in 1956, choosing or changing a surname became a statement of equality, dignity, and new belief. These names often reflect Buddhist principles or honor influential figures within the movement.
Common Buddhist Surnames in India
Surnames Inspired by Ambedkarite Movement
One of the most impactful socio-religious movements in India’s modern history is the Ambedkarite Buddhist movement. Followers of Dr. Ambedkar often adopted new surnames, some symbolic, others honoring Dr. Ambedkar or Buddhist ideals.
- Ambedkar Many followers adopted this surname in respect to B.R. Ambedkar, symbolizing their gratitude and ideological alignment.
- Bodhi Taken from the term Bodhi, meaning enlightenment. It symbolizes spiritual awakening and the path of the Buddha.
- Dhammakeerthi Derived from Dhamma (the teachings of Buddha) and Keerthi (fame/glory), indicating devotion to Buddhist teachings.
- Naglok Symbolic of the Naga people often associated with early followers of Buddha, used to reflect historic pride and Buddhist connection.
- Rahul A popular given name among Buddhists, referring to Buddha’s son. Sometimes also adopted as a surname.
Regional Buddhist Surnames
In different Indian states, various Buddhist communities have distinct surnames that reflect regional language and cultural practices.
Maharashtra
- Gaikwad Common among Maharashtrian Buddhists, originally from Maratha communities.
- Kamble Widely used by Dalit-Buddhists in Maharashtra.
- Jadhav Another surname retained post-conversion by many from the Maharashtrian region.
- More This surname is used across different communities, including Buddhists in Maharashtra.
Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh
- Meshram A prominent surname among Buddhists, especially in central India.
- Uikey Common in tribal Buddhist communities.
- Pipre Found in Buddhist families in parts of Chhattisgarh and adjoining states.
Uttar Pradesh and Bihar
- Paswan Though more associated with Dalit Hindu communities, some Paswans have converted to Buddhism and retained the surname.
- Ram Used across different religious communities, including Buddhists post-conversion.
Northeast India
- Bhutia Common among the Buddhist population of Sikkim and nearby regions.
- Chetri Found among Buddhist groups in the Himalayan belt.
- Lepcha Associated with indigenous Buddhist communities in the Northeast.
Surnames Inspired by Buddhist Concepts
Philosophical and Spiritual Influences
Some surnames adopted by Indian Buddhists are directly taken from Pali and Sanskrit words found in Buddhist scriptures. These names are meant to reflect a personal and familial commitment to the Dhamma.
- Dhamma A direct reference to the teachings of the Buddha.
- Sangha Referring to the monastic community, though less commonly used as a surname.
- Karuna Meaning compassion, a core principle of Buddhism.
- Maitri Derived from Metta, meaning loving-kindness.
- Vipassana Inspired by the meditation tradition, rarely used but respected as a spiritual name.
Impact of Name Change Among Buddhist Converts
Breaking the Caste Barrier
For many converts to Buddhism, particularly from Scheduled Castes and marginalized backgrounds, changing or choosing a new surname was a declaration of emancipation. It marked a break from centuries of caste-based discrimination and a step toward self-respect and religious equality. Surnames like Bodhi, Ambedkar, and Dhamma became symbols of pride and resistance.
Legal and Social Recognition
Though many adopt new surnames upon conversion, they may still be required to maintain their legal surnames for documentation. However, within the community, Buddhist names carry strong recognition and respect. Over time, these names have become associated with education, reform, and social upliftment.
Contemporary Trends and Naming Practices
Urban vs. Rural Patterns
In urban areas, newer generations of Indian Buddhists may opt for names that blend modernity with tradition, often keeping the surname they inherited but incorporating Buddhist-inspired first names. In rural regions, however, traditional surnames associated with local identity and community ties are more likely to be retained, sometimes alongside an added Buddhist name.
Influence of Global Buddhism
With increasing global exposure and travel, some Indian Buddhists adopt names influenced by global Buddhist culture, including Tibetan or Southeast Asian Buddhist terms. These names are often used in spiritual or academic circles rather than legal documents.
The list of Buddhist surnames in India is diverse and rooted in a complex history of spirituality, social reform, and identity reconstruction. From traditional regional surnames retained after conversion to spiritually inspired names adopted with pride, these surnames play an important role in signaling Buddhist identity. For many, these names are more than identifiers they are symbols of resilience, transformation, and belonging in a faith that continues to shape lives across India.