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Last Name Saraf

What is the origin of the last name Saraf?

The last name Saraf is of Indian origin and is derived from the Sanskrit word "shroff," which means a money changer or banker. It is a common surname among Indian communities, particularly in the state of Gujarat.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Saraf

The meaning and origin of the last name Saraf

The surname Saraf is of Arabic origin, derived from the word "sarraf" which means "money changer" or "banker." This surname was often given to individuals who worked as moneylenders or money exchangers in medieval times. The surname spread to various regions in the Middle East, South Asia, and Eastern Europe through trade and migration. Today, individuals with the surname Saraf can be found in countries such as India, Pakistan, Iran, and Turkey, among others, where their ancestors likely worked in financial or commercial roles.

Geographical distribution of the last name Saraf

The last name Saraf is primarily found in India, specifically in the states of Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Rajasthan. It is also present in smaller numbers in other regions of the country such as Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Karnataka. Outside of India, the name Saraf can also be found in countries with significant Indian diaspora populations, such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Saraf is most concentrated in India, particularly in the western and northern regions of the country.

Variants and spellings of the last name Saraf

The last name Saraf may be spelled as Sarraf or Seraf. Other variations of this surname include Seraph and Saraph. These spellings may differ based on regional differences or preferences within different cultures. Additionally, alternative transliterations or Anglicized versions of Saraf could include Saraph, Saraff, or Seraph. The name Saraf originates from Arabic and Hebrew roots, and variations of this surname can be found in various parts of the world.

Famous people with the last name Saraf

Some of the most famous individuals with the last name Saraf include Indian film producer and director Boney Kapoor, known for his work in Bollywood. Another notable figure is Kalyanji Anandji, the famous music composer duo in the Indian film industry. In addition, Jitendra Saraf is a renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist in India, known for his successful business ventures and charitable endeavors. These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have achieved widespread recognition for their work.

Genealogical research on the last name Saraf

The last name Saraf is of Arabic origin and is believed to have originated from the Middle East. The surname is commonly found among Muslim communities in countries such as Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh. Genealogical research on the Saraf surname shows that it is often associated with individuals involved in financial professions, such as merchants, traders, or moneylenders. The Saraf family may have migrated to other regions over time, leading to variations in spellings and pronunciations. Additional research may reveal more specific information about the origins and migration patterns of the Saraf surname throughout history.

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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