Language(s) | Hindi, Kumaoni, Garhwali |
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Origin | |
Region of origin | Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Gujarat |
Other names | |
See also | Parmar (Panwar), Negi, Rautela, Bisht, Bhandari, Rana |
The surname Rawat is a prominent family name in South Asia, particularly in India. It is commonly associated with Rajputs of Rajasthan, [1] Uttarakhand (Garhwal and Kumaon), [2] and Himachal Pradesh. The name is also used among various communities in the Himalayan regions and carries connotations of nobility and leadership. In Uttrakhand, Rajasthan and Himachal the surname is used among Thakur/Rajputs.
The surname Rawat is derived from the Sanskrit word "Rajvata," meaning "ruler" or "kingdom."
The word 'Rawat' is a compound where 'Ra' stands for Rajput, 'Va' for Veer (brave), and 'Ta' for Talwar (sword). It symbolizes a Rajput warrior who is brave and skilled with the sword — known as a Rawat Rajput.
Historically, it was used as a title for people who performed exceptionally well in wars or possessed exceptional bravery Over time, it became a hereditary surname passed down through generations.