Akhtar

Akhtar is a British surname of Persian and Arabic origin, meaning "star" or "luminous". It is commonly found among people of South Asian descent, particularly of Pakistani and Indian heritage, who have settled in the United Kingdom. The surname often indicates a familial connection to a renowned individual or a notable ancestor.

History

The surname Akhtar has roots in both Persian and Arabic languages, reflecting the historical cultural influences in the Indian subcontinent. It is believed to have been introduced to the British Isles by immigrants from South Asia during the 20th century. Many individuals bearing the Akhtar surname have made significant contributions to various fields in the UK, including academia, business, politics, and the arts.

Notable Individuals

  • Naveed Akhtar: An influential British-Pakistani entrepreneur who founded a successful tech start-up in London.
  • Saima Akhtar: A prominent British-Indian politician who has served in the UK Parliament for several terms.
  • Raza Akhtar: A renowned British-Asian artist known for his innovative contemporary art installations.

Cultural Significance

The Akhtar surname carries a sense of pride and heritage for those who bear it, symbolizing their ancestral ties to South Asia. It serves as a reminder of the rich cultural diversity present in the British society and the contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds to the country's history and development.

Overall, the Akhtar surname represents a fusion of South Asian and British identities, reflecting the multicultural fabric of modern-day Britain.

There are approximately 31,994 people named Akhtar in the UK. That makes it the 246th most common surname in Britain. Around 491 in a million people in Britain are named Akhtar.

Region of origin: Asia

Country of origin: Bangladesh

Religion of origin: Muslim

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Javed
  • Mohammad
  • Mohammed
  • Muhammad
  • Nadeem
  • Naeem
  • Naseem
  • Nasim
  • Parvez
  • Saleem

Female

  • Naheed
  • Nasreen
  • Noreen
  • Parveen
  • Shaheen
  • Shameem
  • Shamim
  • Tasleem
  • Tazeem
  • Yasmin

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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