Singh
Singh is derived from the Sanskrit word Siṃha meaning "lion".[1] It is a common title, middle name, or surname in Northern India originally used by the Kshatriyas warriors and kings.[2] Singh was first used as a surname by Abhira (Ahir) kings.[3][4][5][6][7]
As per the instructions of Guru Gobind Singh, the use of Singh as a middle or a last name is mandatory for all baptized male Sikhs since 1699, regardless of their geographical or cultural binding. The surname has also been widely adopted by other groups of India like Yadavs and Jats. Some Bhumihars and Maithil Brahmins also use this name. "Singh" has gradually emerged as a hereditary title to be used as a middle name, highlighting connections to a warrior status or occupation. However, this is not an exclusive usage, and many Hindu groups including Scheduled Castes and Vaishya have adopted this title without any significant warrior status or ties.
Singh is used by Sikhs, and Kshatriya community Rajputs. as either a middle name or a surname.
References
[change | change source]- ↑ Feuerstein, Georg (2013-10-15). The Yoga Tradition: Its History, Literature, Philosophy, and Practice. Hohm Press. ISBN 978-1-935387-58-9.
- ↑ Smith, Raymond Thomas (1996). The Matrifocal Family: Power, Pluralism, and Politics. Routledge. ISBN 978-0-415-91215-0.
- ↑ Nepali, Gopal Singh (1965). The Newars: An Ethno-sociological Study of a Himalayan Community. United Asia Publications. p. 11.
These Abhira Kings bore the surname of Singh while the former of 'Gupta'.
- ↑ Enthoven, Reginald Edward (1990). The Tribes and Castes of Bombay. Asian Educational Services. ISBN 978-81-206-0630-2.
- ↑ Hassan, Syed Siraj ul (1989). The Castes and Tribes of H.E.H. the Nizam's Dominions. Asian Educational Services. ISBN 978-81-206-0488-9.
- ↑ Bhattacharya, Sunil Kumar (1996). Krishna-cult in Indian Art. M.D. Publications Pvt. Ltd. ISBN 978-81-7533-001-6.
- ↑ Shrestha, Nagendra Prasad (2007). The Road to Democracy and Kingdom of God. Shrijana Shrestha. ISBN 978-99946-2-462-1.