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Last Name Maitra

What is the origin of the last name Maitra?

The last name "Maitra" is of Indian origin, specifically from the Bengali community in India. It is derived from the Sanskrit word "Mitra," which means friend or ally. The surname "Maitra" is often used by people from the Brahmin caste in the Bengali community. It is a common surname in West Bengal and Bangladesh.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Maitra

The meaning and origin of the last name Maitra

Maitra is a surname of Indian origin, specifically found in the Bengali community. The surname is derived from the Sanskrit word "mitra," which means friend or companion. In Hindu mythology, Mitra is also the name of the god of friendship and cosmic order, signifying the importance of relationships and social connections in Indian society. The surname Maitra could have been adopted by families who were known for their friendly nature or who held positions of authority and leadership within their community. The use of surnames in India became more common during the British colonization period when individuals were required to have a fixed last name for administrative purposes. Overall, the surname Maitra carries a sense of camaraderie and social standing within the traditional customs and beliefs of the Bengali culture.

Geographical distribution of the last name Maitra

The last name Maitra is predominantly found in India, particularly in the state of West Bengal. It is a common surname among Bengali Hindus, who belong to the Brahmin and Kayastha communities. In addition to India, there is also a significant population of individuals with the surname Maitra in countries such as Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, which are all located in South Asia. Due to historical migration patterns and diaspora communities, individuals with the last name Maitra can also be found in countries like the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Maitra reflects the cultural and ethnic origins of the individuals who bear this surname, with a concentration in South Asia but a presence in other parts of the world as well.

Variants and spellings of the last name Maitra

The last name Maitra can be spelled in various ways due to differences in transliteration from its original language. Some variations include Maitre, Maitri, Maitreya, and Maytra. The name may also be spelled with an added letter at the end, such as Maitran. In some cases, the letter "i" may be replaced with a "y" or the "t" may be doubled to create Maityra or Maittra. Additionally, the name may be written with an accent on the "i" to become Maítra or with a silent "h" at the end like Maithrah. These variations and spellings may stem from regional dialects, historical changes, or individual preferences in pronunciation. Despite the different ways it can be written, the last name Maitra maintains its cultural significance and heritage.

Famous people with the last name Maitra

One famous person with the last name Maitra is Amiya Maitra, a prominent Indian philosopher known for his work in logic and epistemology. He has made significant contributions to the fields of philosophy and mathematics, particularly in the areas of rationality and reasoning. Another well-known individual with the last name Maitra is Swapan Kumar Maitra, a renowned Indian musician and tabla player who has performed on stages around the world. His skill and talent have earned him accolades and recognition in the field of Indian classical music. These individuals with the last name Maitra have made their mark in their respective fields, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations to admire and appreciate.

Genealogical research on the last name Maitra

The last name Maitra is believed to have originated in India, particularly in the Bengal region. The name is commonly found among Bengali Hindus and is often associated with the Brahmin caste. It is derived from the Sanskrit word "maitra," meaning friend or companion. The Maitra surname may have been adopted by individuals who were known for their sociable and friendly nature within their communities. Genealogical research on the Maitra surname reveals a long history of ancestral ties to various regions of India, particularly in West Bengal and Bangladesh. Many individuals bearing the Maitra last name have excelled in various fields such as academics, medicine, and public service, further adding to the prestige of the family name. Today, individuals with the surname Maitra can be found across the globe, with many still maintaining strong ties to their ancestral roots in India.

Last name distribution maps

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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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