Last Name Gopala

The last name Gopala is of Indian origin and is derived from the Sanskrit word "Gopala," which means "cowherd" or "protector of cows." In Hinduism, Gopala is one of the childhood names of the deity Krishna, who is often depicted as a cowherd. Therefore, the last name Gopala is likely to have originated from families that belonged to the cowherd community or were devoted to Lord Krishna.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Gopala

The meaning and origin of the last name Gopala

The surname Gopala originates from India and is of Hindu origin. It is derived from the Sanskrit word "Gopala" which means "cowherd" or "protector of cows." The Gopala community is historically associated with the occupation of herding and tending to cattle, particularly in the regions of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh in India. Members of the Gopala community are often identified by this surname, indicating their ancestral occupation and connection to agriculture and animal husbandry. The surname Gopala also carries religious significance as it is one of the many names of the Hindu god Krishna, who is often depicted as a cowherd in Indian mythology. Today, individuals with the surname Gopala can be found in various parts of India and around the world, maintaining their cultural heritage and connection to their ancestral roots.

Geographical distribution of the last name Gopala

The last name Gopala is most commonly found in India, particularly in the southern states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh, where it is believed to have originated. It is a Hindu name that is derived from the Sanskrit word "gopala," which means "cowherd" or "protector of cows." Due to its association with the deity Krishna, who is often depicted as a cowherd, the name Gopala is also found among Hindu communities in other parts of the country. Outside of India, the surname Gopala is relatively rare, but can be found in small numbers in countries with significant Indian diaspora populations, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Gopala is primarily concentrated in India and among Indian communities abroad.

Variants and spellings of the last name Gopala

The last name Gopala may also be spelled as Gopalan, Gopala Krishna, or Gopalakrishnan. Additionally, variations of this last name can include variations in the placement of spaces or hyphens, such as Gopala Krishna or Gopala-Krishna. Some other possible variations could be Gopal, Gopinath, or Gokul. In different regions and cultures, the spelling and pronunciation of this last name may vary, leading to even more variations such as Gopalakrishna, Gopalkrishnan, or Gopalaswamy. The variations in spelling and pronunciation of the last name Gopala reflect the diverse linguistic and cultural influences that have shaped the history of individuals bearing this name. Despite these variations, the common thread that ties these different forms together is their origin in Indian culture and mythology, particularly associated with the Hindu deity Lord Krishna.

Famous people with the last name Gopala

Unfortunately, there are no famous individuals with the last name Gopala. This could be due to the fact that Gopala is a less common surname in comparison to other more widely recognized names. However, it is important to note that the lack of well-known figures with this last name does not diminish its significance or importance. Gopala may be a meaningful name for many families and individuals, carrying with it a rich cultural or familial history. While there may not be any notable public figures with the surname Gopala, it is likely that there are countless individuals who bear this name proudly and have made significant contributions in their own communities or fields of expertise.

Genealogical research on the last name Gopala

The last name Gopala is of Indian origin, specifically deriving from the Hindu deity Krishna, who is also known as Gopala, meaning "cowherd" or "protector of cows." The name Gopala is commonly found among the Vanniyar caste in Southern India, particularly in the states of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. The Gopala family is known for their agricultural roots and involvement in cattle rearing. Genealogical research on the Gopala surname may reveal a lineage of individuals who have a deep connection to traditional Hindu beliefs and practices, as well as a strong tie to their ancestral land and heritage. Research into the Gopala family may also uncover connections to other families within the Vanniyar community, shedding light on social and cultural dynamics within Indian society.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "gopala"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

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 : 20 June 2025

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