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Last Name Daftary

What is the origin of the last name Daftary?

The last name "Daftary" is of Persian origin and is derived from the title "daftardar", which was used for the head of the revenue department in ancient Persia. The title was later adopted as a surname by individuals who held this position or worked in the revenue department. The name is commonly found among Parsi and Irani communities in India and Iran.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Daftary

The meaning and origin of the last name Daftary

The surname Daftary is of Persian origin and is predominantly found in regions with a historical connection to Persia, such as Iran, India, and Pakistan. The word "daftary" is derived from the Persian word "daftar," meaning a collection of official documents or records. In historical contexts, a daftary was a scribe or clerk who maintained records and documents for a government office or organization. As a surname, Daftary likely originated as an occupational name for someone who worked as a scribe or clerk in a bureaucratic setting. Over time, the surname has been passed down through generations and can now be found among individuals of Persian descent around the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Daftary

The last name Daftary is primarily found in India, particularly in the state of Gujarat. This surname is commonly seen among the Dawoodi Bohra community, who are followers of the Shia sect of Islam. Many Daftary families can also be found in Mumbai, where they have resided for several generations. In addition to India, there are also smaller populations of individuals with the last name Daftary living in countries like Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom. This dispersion can be attributed to migration patterns and opportunities for education and employment in these countries. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Daftary shows a concentration in India, with pockets of populations scattered across other parts of the world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Daftary

The last name Daftary can be spelled and written in various ways due to transliteration differences and individual preferences. Some common variations of the last name include Daftry, Daftari, Daftaryy, Daftrey, and Daftery. These variations may be a result of different regional influences, historical changes, or simply personal preference. Despite the different spellings, all variations ultimately refer to individuals belonging to the same family or lineage. The last name Daftary is of Persian origin and is commonly found in Iran, India, and other parts of the Middle East. Whether spelled as Daftary or any of its other variations, the last name signifies a shared cultural heritage and ancestry among those who bear it.

Famous people with the last name Daftary

One of the most famous individuals with the last name Daftary is Farhad Daftary, a prominent scholar and author in the field of Islamic studies. He has written extensively on the history of Islam and is considered a leading expert in the field. Another notable figure with the surname Daftary is Dhun Manek Daftary, an influential Indian politician who served as the Mayor of Karachi during the 1950s. Additionally, Parinaz Daftary is a well-known Iranian actress who has appeared in numerous films and television shows. Each of these individuals has made significant contributions to their respective fields and helped to bring recognition to the Daftary surname.

Genealogical research on the last name Daftary

The surname Daftary is believed to have originated from the Persian word "daftar," meaning "office" or "book." It is commonly found among the Parsi community in India, who are descendants of Zoroastrians who migrated from Persia to India centuries ago. The Daftary family has a rich history of being scholars and administrators, with many members holding prominent positions in government and academia. Genealogical research on the Daftary surname reveals a long line of distinguished individuals who have made significant contributions to their fields and communities. The family tree of the Daftarys is extensive, tracing back through generations and showing a legacy of intelligence, leadership, and service. The name Daftary continues to be passed down through the generations, ensuring the preservation of the family's legacy for years to come.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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