IYENGAR
Iyengar
The surname Iyengar is of Indian origin and is primarily associated with the Tamil Brahmin community, also known as Iyengars. The Iyengars are followers of the Vaishnavism tradition of Hinduism.
Historically, Iyengars were scholars, teachers, and priests, playing significant roles in the religious and educational institutions of southern India. The surname itself often denotes a person's affiliation with the Sri Vaishnava sect and their particular lineage or subsect within the community.
Notable figures bearing the surname Iyengar include B.K.S. Iyengar, an influential yoga teacher who developed the practice of Iyengar Yoga, known for its emphasis on precision, alignment, and therapeutic benefits.
The significance of the surname Iyengar in the context of British culture lies in the diaspora community, where individuals of Indian origin have settled in the United Kingdom, contributing to various fields such as academia, business, arts, and healthcare. This has led to the enrichment of British society with diverse cultural practices and traditions associated with the Iyengar community.
In conclusion, the surname Iyengar carries a rich cultural and historical legacy, reflecting the traditions and contributions of the Tamil Brahmin community within India and the wider global diaspora.
There are approximately 152 people named Iyengar in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Iyengar.