NomOrigine Background

Last Name Koirala

What is the origin of the last name Koirala?

The last name "Koirala" is primarily found among the people of Nepal, particularly among the Kshatriya Chhetri Bahun ethnic groups. It is a relatively common surname in Nepal, often associated with individuals of high social status or belonging to the political and intellectual circles of the country. The exact origin of the name "Koirala" is not definitively known, but it is believed to have derived from the occupational title "Koiral," which was used to describe those who were involved in the trade or profession of onion cultivation. The term "Koiral" is derived from the Nepali word "koiru," meaning onion, and the suffix "-al," denoting belonging or connected to. Over time, the occupational name "Koiral" turned into the family name "Koirala," symbolizing the ancestral connection to the onion cultivation trade. Thus, it is thought that the surname originated from individuals or families engaged in the cultivation, distribution, or trade of onions in Nepal.

origin of the last name Koirala

Here are the ancestors of the family Koirala

Learn more about the origin of the last name Koirala

The meaning and origin of the last name Koirala

The surname Koirala is mainly found among the Nepali community. In Nepali language, 'Koirala' is derived from the word 'Koiru' which means 'Place of Koira plants'. The suffix 'la' is added to denote the location or place. Therefore, Koirala refers to people belonging to or originating from a place with abundant Koira plants. Koira is a native plant found in various parts of Nepal, known for its medicinal properties. As a surname, Koirala may have been adopted by families residing near areas with plenty of Koira plants or those engaged in cultivating or using this plant for various purposes. The Koirala surname gained prominence in the political landscape of Nepal, as several influential figures with this surname have played significant roles in the country's history. Notably, Bishweshwar Prasad Koirala, a prominent Nepali politician, was the first democratically elected Prime Minister of Nepal, and his family continues to have a strong political influence in the country.

Geographical distribution of the last name Koirala

The last name Koirala is most commonly found in Nepal, particularly among the Khas people who primarily reside in the western region. The Koirala surname belongs to the Chhetri caste, which is one of the major ethnic groups in Nepal. The Koiralas are known for their significant influence in Nepali politics and other fields. Outside of Nepal, the Koirala name can also be found among the Nepali diaspora in different countries, such as India, the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. This diaspora has established itself through migration for various reasons, including education, employment, or seeking a better quality of life. In these countries, the Koiralas maintain their cultural heritage while adapting to their new surroundings. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Koirala is primarily concentrated in Nepal, but it also has a presence in various other parts of the world due to migration.

Variants and spellings of the last name Koirala

The last name Koirala originated in Nepal and is most commonly spelled as K-O-I-R-A-L-A. However, due to different transliteration systems, variations of this spelling can be found. One common variation is "Koiralla", where an extra "L" is added at the end. Another possible variation is "Koiral", where the final "a" is dropped. Additionally, it could also be spelled as "Koyrala" or "Koeral", which may occur due to errors in transcription or differences in regional dialects. It is important to note that these variations do not change the meaning or significance of the name. Regardless of the spelling, the name Koirala is associated with a prominent Brahmin community in Nepal and is often found among individuals involved in politics, literature, or other fields of public service.

Famous people with the last name Koirala

Koirala is a prominent last name primarily associated with the illustrious Koirala family of Nepal. One of the most renowned figures is B.P. Koirala, a prominent Nepali politician and writer. He served as the Prime Minister of Nepal and played a crucial role in shaping the country's political landscape. Known for his strong advocacy of democracy, Koirala was a prominent leader of the Nepali Congress Party and actively participated in the independent movement against the autocratic regime in Nepal. Girija Prasad Koirala, another prominent member of the family, served multiple terms as Prime Minister and played a significant role in democratizing Nepal in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. His contributions laid a strong foundation for Nepal's transition towards a democratic nation. Sujata Koirala, daughter of B.P. Koirala, also emerged as a prominent political figure, serving as a Minister and Deputy Prime Minister of Nepal. The Koirala family has left an indelible mark on Nepali politics and continues to inspire generations with their commitment to democracy and public service.

Genealogical research on the last name Koirala

The surname Koirala is a prominent name in the country of Nepal. The genealogical research on the Koirala surname reveals a rich history and lineage that can be traced back to the ancient times. The name Koirala originated from the Khas community, an ethnic group predominantly found in the western regions of Nepal. It is believed that the Koiralas were a warrior clan originally from Rajasthan, India, who migrated to Nepal several centuries ago. They settled in various regions of Nepal, including Palpa and Chitwan, where they established themselves as influential figures in local politics and society. Throughout history, the Koiralas have been renowned for their contributions to Nepalese politics and public service. The most notable figure from the Koirala family is Bishweshwar Prasad Koirala, who played a pivotal role in Nepal's struggle for democracy and served as the Prime Minister of Nepal multiple times. The Koirala surname continues to hold significance and respect in Nepalese society, reflecting a legacy of leadership, resilience, and dedication to public service.

Share the origin of your last name with your friends

Search the origin of a family name

Enter the surname you are looking for below: