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Animal-Inspired Surnames Like Machchhar, Hathi, Ghoda Spark Curiosity in Gujarat
✍️ The Times of India
🗓 04 Oct 2026, 05:33 AM
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The Times of India highlighted Gujarati family names drawn from the animal kingdom, such as Machchhar (fish), Hathi (elephant) and Ghoda (horse). These surnames form a curious menagerie that reflects a unique naming tradition in the state.
The Times of India recently pointed out a set of Gujarati surnames that resemble animal names, including Machchhar, Hathi and Ghoda.
These names appear among various Gujarati-speaking families and form what the article describes as a curious menagerie.
The report notes that such animal‑based surnames have historical roots, often linked to ancestral occupations, totems or nicknames.
Despite their unusual nature, the surnames remain in use today, continuing to reflect a distinctive aspect of Gujarat’s cultural identity.
These names appear among various Gujarati-speaking families and form what the article describes as a curious menagerie.
The report notes that such animal‑based surnames have historical roots, often linked to ancestral occupations, totems or nicknames.
Despite their unusual nature, the surnames remain in use today, continuing to reflect a distinctive aspect of Gujarat’s cultural identity.