Last Name Hemani

The surname Hemani is of Indian origin, specifically from the state of Gujarat. It is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Hemn', meaning golden or precious. Historically, it was a caste name for goldsmiths or jewellers within the Hindu community in India. However, it's important to note that surnames can have multiple origins and meanings, and this information provides a general context rather than a definitive etymology. For a more accurate understanding of the specific history behind a particular Hemani family, further research into genealogical records or oral histories might be necessary.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Hemani

The meaning and origin of the last name Hemani

The surname Hemani is of Indian origin, specifically from the country Nepal. It belongs to the Rai, Limbu, and Sunwar ethnic groups, who are indigenous peoples of eastern Nepal and the Darjeeling region of India. The name Hemani is derived from the word 'Hem' which means "snow" in many Himalayan languages, and 'Ni' as a suffix indicating 'descendant of'. Thus, Hemani can be interpreted as someone descended from the snow-dweller or a person related to snow. It highlights the connection of the bearer to the majestic Himalayas and its pristine snow.

Geographical distribution of the last name Hemani

The last name Hemani is predominantly found in countries with significant populations of people of Indian origin, particularly India and Fiji. In India, it is most common in the states of Gujarat and Maharashtra, reflecting the region's historical ties to Jainism, a religion from which many Hemani ancestors originate. In Fiji, the name has been adopted by descendants of Indian immigrants who were brought to the islands as laborers during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Additionally, smaller communities of people with the last name Hemani can be found in other parts of the world, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and South Africa, where they have emigrated from India over the past century.

Variants and spellings of the last name Hemani

The surname Hemani can be found with various spellings and variations due to differences in transliteration and regional pronunciation. Some common variants include: Hemnani, Hemaney, Hemeni, Hemeny, Hemoni, Heimani, and Heimanee. These variations are largely based on the different ways of representing the original Gujarati or Hindi characters in the Latin alphabet. It's essential to note that the correct spelling can depend on factors such as the specific Indian dialect or language region where the name originated.

Famous people with the last name Hemani

Notable individuals with the surname Hemani include:

1. Arjun Hemami (born 1968), a Nepalese professional footballer who played as a goalkeeper for the national team and clubs like Jaguars F.C., Three Star Club, and Manang Marshyangdi Club. He is considered one of the best goalkeepers in Nepali football history.
2. Gopal Hemami (born 1949), a Nepalese politician who served as the Minister for Home Affairs in the government of Prime Minister Baburam Bhattarai from August 2012 to February 2013. He is also a Member of Parliament representing the Rastriya Janata Party.
3. Laxmi Prasad Hemnani (born 1964), an Indian businessman and philanthropist who founded the Akshaya Patra Foundation, a non-profit organization that aims to eliminate classroom hunger by providing mid-day meals in government schools across India. He was awarded the Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian honors, in 2013.
4. Rajesh Hemani (born 1962), an Indian entrepreneur who founded Mumbai-based real estate development company Hemant Builders and Constructions Pvt Ltd. He is also the founder and chairman of the Hemanti Group, which has interests in real estate, infrastructure, and renewable energy.
5. Sushila Karki Hemani (1936–2018), a Nepalese writer, journalist, and social activist who was the first woman to be appointed as editor-in-chief of the Kathmandu Post, one of Nepal's leading English-language newspapers. She was also a member of the Constituent Assembly of Nepal from 2008 to 2013.

Genealogical research on the last name Hemani

The surname Hemani originates from India and is prevalent among communities of Gujarati descent. Historically, it is a patronymic name derived from the given name Heman, which translates to "God-like" or "the supreme one." The name Hemani may have been used as a nickname for someone who possessed qualities associated with this deity, such as strength or wisdom.

Throughout history, Hemani has been recorded in various regions of India, particularly Gujarat and Rajasthan. Notable individuals bearing the name include Hemant Hemnani, an Indian film producer and director, and Dr. Ajay K. Hemani, a renowned cardiologist and author based in the United States.

Diaspora records show that the Hemani family has also migrated to other parts of the world, including Fiji, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The family name remains relatively uncommon outside of India, with a significant presence among Gujarati communities in these regions.

In conclusion, Hemani is an Indian surname originating from the given name Heman, signifying "God-like." The name has been historically recorded in various parts of India and has expanded its presence through diaspora communities worldwide.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Hemani"
• 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 : 27 July 2025

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