An Analysis of Telugu Family Names

Written by: Edina Ferrao

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Time to read min

Telugu, one of the most widely spoken languages in India, boasts a rich cultural heritage. Family names or surnames in Telugu reflect the customs, traditions, and diverse experiences of this vibrant community. An analysis of Telugu family names(surnames) reveals interesting patterns and insights, shedding light on the language's roots and the people who bear these names. In this article, we will delve into the 11 semantic categories that most Telugu surnames fall into.

1. Place Names

Telugu family names often derive from local place names. These names serve as identifiers, connecting individuals to their ancestral origins.

Suffix Meaning

Examples
uri; uru of village, town

Pokkunuri; Gunturu
purapu, warapu; puram, waram of town, city

Icchnapurapu, Maylawarapu, Chittapuram, Srungawaram
proli; prolu, brolu, wolu of town

Pindiproli, Rayaprolu, Cebrolu, Nidadawolu
pati; padu of wasteland near a village; ruins of a village

Dhulipati, Takkellappadu
witi of village

Kondawiti
palli of village

Kamepalli
pudi of village

Gunupudi
patnam of town, city

Nagapatnam

2. Geographic Items

Many Telugu family names are derived from geographic features, such as rivers, hills, or valleys. These names evoke a sense of attachment to the land and natural surroundings.

Family Names

Meanings
Awanigadda

of earth island
Shayala

of mountain
Adawi

of forest
Tota

of garden
Penumarti

of great marsh
Pulaparti

of marsh of flowers
Mangalagiri

of auspicious mountain
Samudrala

of harbour village
Pasupuleti

of river of yellow colours

3. Plants

Telugu names frequently draw inspiration from the rich flora of the region. We have showcased some examples below.

Family Names

Meanings
Akula

of leaves
Wakkala

of areca-nuts
Jonnalagadda

of millet-island
Cintala

of tamarind trees
Cerukupalli

of sugarcane village
Gandawadi

of sandalwood village
Tatikonda

of palm-tree hill
Miriyala

of pepper plants
Mullapudi

of village of thorns

4. Animals

In Telugu culture, animal-inspired family names are not uncommon. These names may reflect attributes associated with specific animals or ancestral associations with wildlife.

Family Names

Meanings
Awula

of cows
Gurram

of horse
Pamula

of snakes
Kode

of young bull
Kaki

of crow
Doma

of mosquito
Kurma

of tortoise
Potula

of buffaloes
Yenugu

of elephant
Iga

of fly
Gorrepati

of sheep place
Chilakamarti

of parrot mash

5. Foods

Food-related surnames in Telugu culture offer interesting insights into culinary traditions and preferences.

Family Names

Meanings
Neti

of ghee
Nune

of gingelly oil
Challa

of buttermilk

6. Occupations

Occupationally derived family names were prevalent in Indian society historically, and Telugu culture is no exception.

Family Names

Meanings
Golla

of caste of shepherds or cattle herders
Karanam

of village clerk
Pragada, Pregada

of minister (administrator)
Chakali

of washerman

7. Qualities

Telugu family names often reflect human qualities, characteristics or peculiarities.

Family Names

Meanings
Manchiraju

of good king
Papalu

of sins
Kotta

of new thing
Tikkawarapu

of crazy town, city
Karri

of black colour
Nilam

of blue colour

8. Architecture

Names connected to architectural elements hint at address landmarks, historical associations or, perhaps, expertise in construction practices.

Family Names

Meanings
Kota

of fort
Guduwada

of temple village
Meda

of multi-storeyed building
Inti

of house
Obawanam(u)

of mansion

9. Objects

Family names may also be derived from objects that hold cultural or sentimental value.

Family Names

Meanings
Karra

of stick
Peri

of name
Ghanta

of bell
Gadiyaram

of clock
Paydi

of gold
Ratnala

of spinning wheels
Kodali

of sickle
Golla

of fingernails

10. Names of Persons

Telugu family names derived from personal names are quite common. These surnames honor ancestors, historical figures, or prominent individuals from the community. Here are a few examples:

Family Names inspired by Names of Persons
Kashinadhuni
Reddiwari
Pediredla
Bhattacharya

11. Names of Tribal Groups

Some Telugu family names have roots in the region's tribal heritage. These surnames not only signify ancestral connections but also celebrate the diversity of Telugu culture. Surnames like “Chencu” and “Boya” are a reflection of this.

Understanding the Telugu Naming Tradition:

The analysis of Telugu family names reveals a deep-rooted connection to the culture, geography, and history of the Telugu-speaking people. These names not only provide information about ancestral professions, places, and qualities but also serve as a means to pass down traditions and maintain a sense of identity.


Next time you come across a Telugu family name, take a moment to appreciate the rich history and diverse influences that shape these names. By preserving and cherishing these family names, we contribute to the preservation of Telugu culture for future generations to come.

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