Raj

Raj is a British surname of South Asian origin, commonly found among individuals of Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi descent. The name is derived from the Sanskrit word "Raja," meaning "king" or "prince," reflecting nobility or royal lineage.

Origins

The surname Raj is often associated with individuals from the Indian subcontinent, particularly from regions where the influence of Hindu, Muslim, and Sikh cultures is prominent. It signifies a sense of prestige and social status within the community.

Distribution

The surname Raj is found predominantly in the United Kingdom, among the British South Asian diaspora. It has been carried by immigrants who settled in Britain during the period of colonial rule or those who arrived in more recent times for education, work, or other opportunities.

Notable Individuals

  1. Sirajuddin Raj - A prominent British-Asian entrepreneur and philanthropist known for his contributions to various charitable causes and community development projects.

  2. Anjali Raj - An accomplished British-Indian artist known for her fusion of traditional Indian motifs with contemporary Western art styles.

Cultural Significance

The surname Raj holds cultural significance, symbolising heritage, identity, and a connection to the ancestral roots of individuals bearing the name. It serves as a reminder of the rich history and diverse cultural tapestry of the South Asian diaspora in the United Kingdom.

In conclusion, the surname Raj represents a blend of British and South Asian identities, reflecting a legacy of tradition, heritage, and community ties among individuals of Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi descent in Britain.

There are approximately 2,740 people named Raj in the UK. That makes it roughly the 3,261st most common surname in Britain. Around 42 in a million people in Britain are named Raj.

Region of origin: Asia

Country of origin: India

Religion of origin: Hindu

Language of origin: Hindi

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Anil
  • Baldev
  • Des
  • Desmond
  • Dev
  • Hans
  • Janak
  • Kumar
  • Mohammed
  • Santhana
  • Sukhdev
  • Tilak

Female

  • Anita
  • Anitha
  • Begum
  • Karen
  • Kiran
  • Mala
  • Meena
  • Monika
  • Priya
  • Rani
  • Reena
  • Samira
  • Sonia
  • Susan

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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