Shakya [1] [2] is an Indian surname and is part of the broader Kushwaha community surnames like Maurya, Kachhi, Saini, Koeri [3] etc, who collectively assert descent from Kusha, a son of the avatar of Vishnu, Rama. [4] [5] [6] [7]
In Nepal, Shakyas function as Vajrayana priests and are ranked higher in the caste hierarchy among Newari community since they are believed to be the descendants of Gautam Buddha himself. [8]
Notable people with this surname, who may or may not be associated with the caste/clan are:
Original Text from Peasants and Monks in British India "Kushvaha-kshatriya identity was espoused by agricultural communities well known throughout the Gangetic north for an expertise in small-scale vegetable and poppy cultivation. Prominent among them were Kachhi and Murao agriculturalists of central Uttar Pradesh, Kachhvahas of western Uttar Pradesh, and Koiris of Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh."
Maurya belongs to the biggest caste group among OBCs after Yadavs and Kurmis. Known by the surnames Kachhi, Maurya, Kushwaha, Saini and Shakya, this group is present in most assembly seats from east to west UP.