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In ], the term '''gotra''' (]: गोत्र) is considered to be equivalent to ]. It broadly refers to people who are descendants in an unbroken male line from a common male ancestor or ]. Generally, the gotra forms an ] unit, with marriage within the same gotra being regarded as ] and prohibited by custom.<ref>{{cite book|editor1-last=Singer|editor1-first=Milton|editor2-last=Cohn|editor2-first=Bernard S.|title=Structure and change in Indian society|date=2007|publisher=AldineTransaction|location=New Brunswick, N.J.|isbn=978-0202361383|page=408|edition=1. paperback printing}}</ref> The name of the gotra can be used as a surname, but it is different from a surname and is strictly maintained because of its importance in marriages among Hindus, especially among castes. ] defines ''gotra'' as ''apatyam pautraprabhrti gotram'' (IV. 1. 162), which means "the word ''gotra'' denotes the descendance (or descendants), ''apatya'', of a couple consisting of a ''pautra'', a son and a ''bharti'', a mother, i.e. a daughter-in-law." (Based on Monier Williams Dictionary definitions.) In ], the term '''gotra''' (]: गोत्र) is considered to be equivalent to ]. It broadly refers to people who are descendants in an unbroken male line from a common male ancestor or ]. Generally, the gotra forms an ] unit, with marriage within the same gotra being regarded as ] and prohibited by custom.<ref>{{cite book|editor1-last=Singer|editor1-first=Milton|editor2-last=Cohn|editor2-first=Bernard S.|title=Structure and change in Indian society|date=2007|publisher=AldineTransaction|location=New Brunswick, N.J.|isbn=978-0202361383|page=408|edition=1. paperback printing}}</ref> The name of the gotra can be used as a surname, but it is different from a surname and is strictly maintained because of its importance in marriages among Hindus, especially among castes. ] defines ''gotra'' as ''apatyam pautraprabhrti gotram'' (IV. 1. 162), which means "the word ''gotra'' denotes the descendance (or descendants), ''apatya'', of a couple consisting of a ''pautra'', a son and a ''bharti'', a mother, i.e. a daughter-in-law." (Based on Monier Williams Dictionary definitions.)
When a person says "I am Vipparla-gotra", he means that he traces his descent to the ancient sage Vipparla by an unbroken male descent.


According to the ] 2.2.4,'' Kashyapa, Atri, Vasistha, Vishvamitra, Gautama Maharishi, Jamadagni and Bharadvaja'' are seven sages (also known as ]) and ''Jambu Maharishi'' is another sage (also known as ], who belongs to Kashyapa). The progeny of these eight sages are declared to be gotras. This enumeration of seven primary & one secondary gotra seems to have been known to Pāṇini. The offspring (''apatya'') of these seven are gotras and others than these are called ''gotrāvayava.<ref>{{cite journal|url=http://www.vedah.net/manasanskriti/Brahmins.html|title=Mana Sanskriti (Our Culture)|issue=69|work=vedah.net|date=October 2003}}</ref> According to the ] 2.2.4,'' Kashyapa, Atri, Vasistha, Vishvamitra, Gautama Maharishi, Jamadagni and Bharadvaja'' are seven sages (also known as ]) and ''Jambu Maharishi'' is another sage (also known as ], who belongs to Kashyapa). The progeny of these eight sages are declared to be gotras. This enumeration of seven primary & one secondary gotra seems to have been known to Pāṇini. The offspring (''apatya'') of these seven are gotras and others than these are called ''gotrāvayava.<ref>{{cite journal|url=http://www.vedah.net/manasanskriti/Brahmins.html|title=Mana Sanskriti (Our Culture)|issue=69|website=vedah.net|date=October 2003|access-date=16 January 2009|archive-date=14 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171014050327/http://www.vedah.net/manasanskriti/Brahmins.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


One who follows the system defined by three sages defines himself as ''Tri-a-Vishay''. Similarly, for five sages, it is ''Pancha-Vishay'', and for seven sages, it is ''Santa-Vishay''. One who follows the system defined by three sages defines himself as ''Tri-a-Vishay''. Similarly, for five sages, it is ''Pancha-Vishay'', and for seven sages, it is ''Santa-Vishay''.


There exists another theory about gotra: sons and disciples of a sage would have the same gotra; it is believed that they possess similar thoughts and philosophies. People of the same gotra can be found across different castes. Each gotra comprises '']''. There exists another theory about gotra: sons and disciples of a sage would have the same gotra; it is believed that they possess similar thoughts and philosophies. People of the same gotra can be found across different castes. Each gotra comprises '']''.

While Hindu texts prescribe marrying within one's own community, they prohibit individuals from marrying those who belong to their own ], or lineage from the same Vedic sage:<ref>{{Cite web |last=www.wisdomlib.org |date=2021-11-14 |title=Rules of Marriage (vivāha) |url=https://www.wisdomlib.org/hinduism/book/the-agni-purana/d/doc1083384.html |access-date=2022-10-29 |website=www.wisdomlib.org |language=en}}</ref>

{{Blockquote|text=One should not choose (the bride) from the same gotra or born in the line of same sage. (One may choose) from (descendants of) more than seven (generations) on the paternal side and more than five (generations) on the maternal side.|title=]|source=Chapter 154}}


==Origins== ==Origins==
As a ] terms, ''gotra'' simply means "forward moving descendants".<ref>{{cite book |last=Saraswati |first=Swami Dayanand |url=https://vedicscriptures.in/rigveda/1/164/17 |title=Rigvedadi-Bhashya-Bhumika |publisher=Vijaykumar Govindram Hasanand |year=2010 |isbn=978-8170771296 |page=199}}</ref> (गौः) गमन करनेवाली means forward moving and (त्र:) stands for Offspring. The specific meaning "family, lineage kin" (as it were "herd within an enclosure") is relatively more recent, first recorded around the mid-1st millennium BCE (e.g., ]). As a ] term, ''gotra'' simply means "forward moving descendants".<ref>{{cite book |last=Saraswati |first=Swami Dayanand |url=https://vedicscriptures.in/rigveda/1/164/17 |title=Rigvedadi-Bhashya-Bhumika |publisher=Vijaykumar Govindram Hasanand |year=2010 |isbn=978-8170771296 |page=199 |access-date=28 August 2022 |archive-date=26 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230326024427/https://vedicscriptures.in/rigveda/1/164/17 |url-status=live }}</ref> (गौः) गमन means forward moving and (त्र:) stands for Offspring. The specific meaning "family, lineage kin" (as it were "herd within an enclosure") is relatively more recent, first recorded around the mid-1st millennium BCE (e.g., ]).


These "lineages" as they developed among the ]s of that time meant patrilineal descent. The Brahmanic system was later adopted by other communities, such as the ] and ]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/239834/gotra|title=Gotra – Indian caste system|work=Encyclopædia Britannica|access-date=24 March 2015}}</ref> These "lineages" as they developed among the ]s of that time meant patrilineal descent. The Brahman=Rajput system was later adopted by other communities, such as the ] and ]<ref>{{cite encyclopedia|url=https://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/239834/gotra|title=Gotra – Indian caste system|encyclopedia=Encyclopædia Britann=Rajput|access-date=24 March 2015|archive-date=24 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150324203452/http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/239834/gotra|url-status=live}}</ref>


All members of a particular gotra are believed to possess certain common characteristics by way of nature or profession. Many theories have been propounded to explain this system. According to the Vedic theories, the ]s are direct descendants of seven sages who are believed to be the sons of Brahma, born out of his mind through yogic prowess. They are (1) ], (2) ], (3) ], (4) ], (5) ], (6) ] and (7) ]. To this list, ] is also sometimes added. These eight sages are called gotrakarins, from whom all 108 gotras (especially of the Brahmins) have evolved. For instance, from ] sprang the Atreya and Gavisthiras gotras.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gurjari.net/ico/Mystica/html/gotra.htm|title=Gotra|work=gurjari.net|access-date=24 March 2015}}</ref> According to the Vedic theories, the ]s are direct descendants of seven sages who are believed to be the sons of Brahma, born out of his mind through yogic prowess. They are (1) ], (2) ], (3) ], (4) ], (5) ], (6) ] and (7) ]. To this list, ] is also sometimes added. These eight sages are called gotrakarins, from whom all 108 gotras (especially of the Brahmins) have evolved. For instance, from ] sprang the Atreya and Gavisthiras gotras.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gurjari.net/ico/Mystica/html/gotra.htm|title=Gotra|work=gurjari.net|access-date=24 March 2015|archive-date=22 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171022064714/http://www.gurjari.net/ico/Mystica/html/gotra.htm|url-status=live}}</ref>


According to ], many gotras of Hindu religion are of ]ic origin which is named after plants, animals, and natural objects. These are universal among non-Aryans or tribes but occur also in Hindu castes. The commonest totem names are those of animals, including several which are held sacred by Hindus, as bagh or Nahar, the tiger; bachhas, the calf; murkuria, the peacock; kachhua, the tortoise; nagas, the cobra; hathi, the elephant; bhains, the buffalo; richaria, the bear; Kuliha, the Jackal, Kukura, the dog; kursaal, the deer; Hiran, the black-buck and so on. The utmost variety of names is found, and numerous trees, as well as rice and other crops, salt, sandalwood, cucumber, pepper, and some household implements such as pestle, rolling slab, serve as the names of clans. Thus the name of the rishi Bharadvaja means a lark bird, and ] means descended from Kusha grass, ] from Agassi flower, ] from kachhap a tortoise, ] from titer, partridge bird. Similarly, the origin of other rishis is attributed to animals, ] to an antelope, ] to a frog, ] to an owl. The usual characteristic of totemism is that the members of a clan regard themselves as related to or descended from, the animals or trees from which the clan takes its name, and abstain from killing or eating them.<ref>{{cite book|last=Russell|first=Robert Vane |title=The Tribes and Castes of the Central Provinces of India|url=https://archive.org/details/tribescastesofce02russ_0|year=1916|publisher=Macmillan and Co|location=London}} {{PD-notice}}</ref> According to ], many gotras of Hindu religion are of ]ic origin which is named after plants, animals, and natural objects. These are universal among tribes but occur also in Hindu castes. The commonest totem names are those of animals, including several which are held sacred by Hindus, as bagh or Nahar, the tiger; bachhas, the calf; murkuria, the peacock; kachhua, the tortoise; nagas, the cobra; hathi, the elephant; bhains, the buffalo; richaria, the bear; Kuliha, the Jackal, Kukura, the dog; kursaal, the deer; Hiran, the black-buck and so on. The utmost variety of names is found, and numerous trees, as well as rice and other crops, salt, sandalwood, cucumber, pepper, and some household implements such as pestle, rolling slab, serve as the names of clans. Thus the name of the rishi Bharadvaja means a lark bird, and ] means descended from Kusha grass, ] from Agassi flower, ] from kachhap a tortoise, ] from titer, partridge bird. Similarly, the origin of other rishis is attributed to animals, ] to an antelope, ] to a frog, ] to an owl. The usual characteristic of totemism is that the members of a clan regard themselves as related to or descended from, the animals or trees from which the clan takes its name, and abstain from killing or eating them.<ref>{{cite book|last=Russell|first=Robert Vane |title=The Tribes and Castes of the Central Provinces of India|url=https://archive.org/details/tribescastesofce02russ_0|year=1916|publisher=Macmillan and Co|location=London}} {{PD-notice}}</ref>


A gotra must be distinguished from a ''kula''. A kula is equal to a particular family, or equal to modern-day "clans". A kula relates to a lineage or a ''caste''.{{Citation needed|date=September 2022}} A gotra must be distinguished from a ''kula''. A kula is equal to a particular family, or equal to modern-day "clans". A kula relates to a ''caste''.{{cn|date=August 2024}}


==Marriages and gotras== ==Marriages and gotras==
Marriages within the gotra ('sagotra' marriages) are not permitted under the rule of ] in the traditional matrimonial system. The compound word 'sagotra' is a union of the words 'sa' and 'gotra', where 'sa' means same or similar. It is common practice in preparation for ] marriage to inquire about the kula-gotra (clan lineage) of the bride and groom before approving the marriage. People within the gotra are regarded as ] and marrying such a person can lead to higher chances for the child to get genetically transferred diseases. In almost all Hindu families, marriage within the same gotra is not practiced (since they are believed to be descended from the same family). Marriages between different gotras are encouraged; marriage within the same ] started to happen later. Marriages within the gotra ('sagotra' marriages) are not permitted under the rule of ] in the traditional matrimonial system. The compound word 'sagotra' is a union of the words 'sa' and 'gotra', where 'sa' means same or similar. It is common practice in preparation for ] marriage to inquire about the kula-gotra (clan lineage) of the bride and groom before approving the marriage. People within the gotra are considered as ] and marrying such a person can lead to higher chances for the child to get genetically transferred diseases. In almost all Hindu families, marriage within the same gotra is not practiced (since they are believed to be descended from the same Lineage). Marriages between different gotras are encouraged; marriage within the same gotra started to happen later.


For example, ], ] and ] have 3000 Gotras and ] of ] and ] have 2600 Gotras. Gotra is always passed on from father to children among most Hindus. However, among the ] it is passed on from mother to child. For example, ], ], and ] have 13,000 Gotras . And ] of ] and ] have 2,600 Gotras. Gotra is always passed on from father to children among most Hindu communities. However, among the ] it is passed on from mother to child.


The tatsama words 'sahara' and 'sahodari' (sister) derive their roots from the Sanskrit word 'sahodara' (सहोदर) meaning co-uterine or born of the same womb. In communities where gotra membership passed from father to children, marriages were allowed between a woman and her maternal uncle,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://countrystudies.us/india/86.htm|title=India – Marriage|work=countrystudies.us|access-date=24 March 2015}}</ref> while such marriages were forbidden in ] communities, like ]s, where gotra membership was passed down from the mother. The tatsama words 'sahodara' (brother) and 'sahodari' (sister) derive their roots from the Sanskrit word 'sahara' (सहर) meaning co-uterine or born of the same womb. In communities where gotra membership passed from father to children, marriages were allowed between a woman and her maternal uncle,<ref>{{cite web |last=Sadagopan |first=V. |date=August 7, 1995 |title=The 20 Gothrams |url=https://ramanuja.org/sri/BhaktiListArchives/Article?p=aug95%2F0027.html |url-status= |archive-url= |archive-date= |access-date= |work=ramanuja.org}}</ref> while such marriages were forbidden in ] communities, like ]s, where gotra membership was passed down from the mother.


A much more common characteristic of South Indian Hindu society is permission for marriage between ]s (children of brother and sister) as they are of different gotras. Thus, a man is allowed to marry his maternal uncle's daughter or his paternal aunt's daughter but is not allowed to marry his paternal uncle's daughter. She would be considered a ], of the same gotra, and therefore to be treated as a sister.<ref>{{cite journal|url=http://neurologyasia.org/articles/20073_015.pdf|title=Arranged marriage, consanguinity and epilepsy|last1=Mehndiratta|first1=MM|last2=Paul|first2=B|last3=Mehndiratta|first3=P|journal=Neurology Asia |year=2007|volume=12 |issue=Supplement 1|pages=15–17}}</ref> A much more common characteristic of South Indian Hindu society is permission for marriage between ]s (children of brother and sister) as they are of different gotras. Thus, a man is allowed to marry his maternal uncle's daughter or his paternal aunt's daughter but is not allowed to marry his paternal uncle's daughter. She would be considered a ], of the same gotra, and therefore to be treated as a sister.<ref>{{cite journal|url=http://neurologyasia.org/articles/20073_015.pdf|title=Arranged marriage, consanguinity and epilepsy|last1=Mehndiratta|first1=MM|last2=Paul|first2=B|last3=Mehndiratta|first3=P|journal=Neurology Asia|year=2007|volume=12|issue=Supplement 1|pages=15–17|access-date=27 August 2009|archive-date=24 August 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090824102035/http://neurologyasia.org/articles/20073_015.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>


] ] society not only follows the rules of gotra for marriages but also has many regulations which go beyond the basic definition of gotra and have a broader definition of incest.<ref>. palomar.edu.</ref> Some communities in North India do not allow marriage with certain other clans, based on the belief that both clans are of the same patrilineal descent.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/news/haryana-panchayat-takes-on-govt-over-samegotra-marriage/491548/|title=Haryana panchayat takes on govt over same-gotra marriage|work=]|author=Vashisht, Dinker |date=20 July 2009}}</ref> In other communities, marriage within the gotra of the mother's father, and possibly some others, is prohibited. North Indian Hindu society not only follows the rules of gotra for marriages but also has many regulations which go beyond the basic definition of gotra and have a broader definition of incest.<ref> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090926225259/http://anthro.palomar.edu/marriage/marriage_3.htm |date=26 September 2009 }}. palomar.edu.</ref> Some communities in North India do not allow marriage with certain other clans, based on the belief that both clans are of the same patrilineal descent.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/news/haryana-panchayat-takes-on-govt-over-samegotra-marriage/491548/|title=Haryana panchayat takes on govt over same-gotra marriage|work=]|author=Vashisht, Dinker|date=20 July 2009|access-date=27 August 2009|archive-date=15 May 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110515105301/http://www.indianexpress.com/news/haryana-panchayat-takes-on-govt-over-samegotra-marriage/491548/|url-status=live}}</ref> In other communities, marriage within the gotra of the mother's father, and possibly some others, is prohibited.


A possible workaround for Sagotra marriages is to perform a 'Data' (adoption) of the bride to a family of different gotra (usually data is given to the bride's maternal uncle who belongs to different gotra by the same rule) and let them perform the ']am' ('kanya' (girl) + 'danam' (to give)). Such workarounds are used in rare cases, and the acceptability is questionable. A possible workaround for Sagotra marriages is to perform a 'Data' (adoption) of the bride to a family of different gotra (usually data is given to the bride's maternal uncle who belongs to different gotra by the same rule) and let them perform the ']am' ('kanya' (girl) + 'danam' (to give)). Such workarounds are used in rare cases, and the acceptability is questionable.


] recognizes eight types of marriages, thus predominantly following the principles as stated in the , referring to eight types of marriages, the roles, and responsibilities of husband and wife, and the purpose of marriage. ] are, (1) Brahma Vivaha, (2) Arsa Vivaha, (3) Daiva Vivaha, (4) Prajapatya Vivaha, (5) ], (6) Asura Vivaha, (7) Rakshasa Vivaha, and (8) Paishacha Vivaha. The first four types of marriages reflect the paradigm behind arranged marriages. The last three are prohibited as per ], out of which the last two are condemned. The Gandharva marriage is analogous to the modern-day love marriage, where the individuals have the liberty to choose their partners. Though ] had its due prominence in our Shastras, with the advancement of time, Vedic Hinduism giving way to classic Hinduism, the concept of arranged marriage rose to prominence, which still today is predominant ] for a marriage between two individuals. ] recognizes eight types of marriages, thus predominantly following the principles as stated in the , referring to eight types of marriages, the roles, and responsibilities of husband and wife, and the purpose of marriage. ] are, (1) Brahma Vivaha, (2) Arsa Vivaha, (3) Daiva Vivaha, (4) Prajapatya Vivaha, (5) ], (6) Asura Vivaha, (7) Rakshasa Vivaha, and (8) Paishacha Vivaha. The first four types of marriages reflect the paradigm behind arranged marriages. The last three are prohibited as per ], out of which the last two are condemned. The Gandharva marriage is analogous to the modern-day love marriage, where the individuals have the liberty to choose their partners. Though ] had its due prominence in the Shastras, with the advancement of time, Vedic Hinduism giving way to classic Hinduism, the concept of arranged marriage rose to prominence, which still today is predominant ] for a marriage between two individuals.


There is no harm in Sagotra marriage if the individuals are not related for six generations on both maternal and paternal sides. This is expressed in chapter 5 of Manu smriti in mantra 60, which states, सपिण्डता तु पुरुषे सप्तमे विनिवर्तते । समानोदकभावस्तु जन्मनाम्नोरवेदने, which means that ] ends after seven generations.<ref></ref> Section 5(v) of ] also prohibits Sapinda relationship but there is no restriction of Sagotra marriage.<ref></ref> There is no harm in Sagotra marriage if the individuals are not related for six generations on both maternal and paternal sides. This is expressed in chapter 5 of Manu smriti in mantra 60, which states, सपिण्डता तु पुरुषे सप्तमे विनिवर्तते । समानोदकभावस्तु जन्मनाम्नोरवेदने, which means that ] ends after seven generations.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://aryamantavya.in/manusmriti/5-60/ |title=Manu Smriti |access-date=19 April 2020 |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813002614/http://aryamantavya.in/manusmriti/5-60/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Section 5(v) of ] also prohibits Sapinda relationship but there is no restriction of Sagotra marriage.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://bokakhat.gov.in/pdf/The_hindu_marriage_act.pdf |title=The Hindu Marriage Act 1955 |access-date=19 April 2020 |archive-date=3 September 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130903063449/http://bokakhat.gov.in/pdf/The_hindu_marriage_act.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>

With nuclear families and large-scale migration, in search of job or business opportunities or otherwise, it is possible that one may not know his/her gotra. Even if it is known, there is hardly any way to prove its authenticity.<ref></ref>


===Legal situation=== ===Legal situation===
While the gotras are almost universally used for excluding marriages that would be traditionally ]uous, they are not legally recognized as such, although those within "degrees of prohibited relationship" or who are "sapinda" are not permitted to marry.<ref>.</ref> ] panchayats in Haryana have campaigned to legally ban marriages within the same gotra. A convener of the Kadyan Khap, Naresh Kadyan, petitioned the courts to seek an amendment to the ] to legally prohibit such marriages. However, the petition was dismissed as withdrawn after being vacated, with the Delhi High Court warning that the Khap would face heavy penalty costs for wasting the time of the court.<ref>, ''The Hindu'', June 2010.</ref> While the gotras are almost universally used for excluding marriages that would be traditionally ]uous, they are not legally recognized as such, although those within "degrees of prohibited relationship" or who are "sapinda" are not permitted to marry.<ref> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151022170018/http://unstats.un.org/unsd/vitalstatkb/Attachment546.aspx |date=22 October 2015 }}.</ref> ] panchayats in Haryana have campaigned to legally ban marriages within the same gotra. A convener of the Kadyan Khap, Naresh Kadyan, petitioned the courts to seek an amendment to the ] to legally prohibit such marriages. However, the petition was dismissed as withdrawn after being vacated, with the Delhi High Court warning that the Khap would face heavy penalty costs for wasting the time of the court.<ref> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121205155452/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/article472462.ece |date=5 December 2012 }}, ''The Hindu'', June 2010.</ref>

⚫ In the 1945 case of ''Madhavrao vs Raghavendrarao'', which involved a ] couple, the definition of gotra as descending from eight sages and then branching out to several families was thrown out by the Bombay High Court. The court called the idea of Brahmin families descending from an unbroken line of common ancestors as indicated by the names of their respective gotras "impossible to accept." The court consulted relevant Hindu texts and stressed the need for Hindu society and law to keep up with the times, emphasizing that notions of good social behavior and the general ideology of the Hindu society had changed. The court also said that the material in the Hindu texts is so vast and full of contradictions that it is a near-impossible task to reduce it to order and coherence.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/the-paradox-of-the-21st-century/article432445.ece|title=The paradox of the 21st century|last=Anand|first=Pinky|authorlink=Pinky Anand|work=The Hindu|date=28 July 2011|access-date=5 May 2014|archive-date=5 May 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140505182411/http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/the-paradox-of-the-21st-century/article432445.ece|url-status=live}}</ref>


== List of Gotras and Each Gotra's Rishis ==
⚫ In the 1945 case of ''Madhavrao vs Raghavendrarao'', which involved a ] couple, the definition of gotra as descending from eight sages and then branching out to several families was thrown out by the Bombay High Court. The court called the idea of Brahmin families descending from an unbroken line of common ancestors as indicated by the names of their respective gotras "impossible to accept." The court consulted relevant Hindu texts and stressed the need for Hindu society and law to keep up with the times, emphasizing that notions of good social behavior and the general ideology of the Hindu society had changed. The court also said that the material in the Hindu texts is so vast and full of contradictions that it is a near-impossible task to reduce it to order and coherence.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/the-paradox-of-the-21st-century/article432445.ece|title=The paradox of the 21st century|last=Anand|first=Pinky|authorlink=Pinky Anand|work=The Hindu|date=28 July 2011}}</ref>
* '''Bharadwaja''': ], Braahaspatya, Bharadwaja
* '''Shatamarshana''': ], Powrukutsa, Trasatasya
* '''Atreya''': Atreya, Aarchanaasa, Syaavaasva
* '''Vatula''': Bhargava, Vaitahavya, Saavedasa
* '''Renukacharya''': Revaṇārādhya, Revaṇasiddha, Veer, Veerabhadra.
* '''Vatsa''': Bhargava, Chyaavana, AApnavaana, Owrva, Jaamadaghnya
* '''Kowsika''': Vaiswaamitra, AAgamarshana, Kowsika
* '''Viswamitra''': Vaiswaamitra, Devaraata, Owtala or Vaiswaamitra, Ashtaka
* '''Kowndinya''': Vaasishta, Maitraavaruna, Kowndinya
* '''Harita''': Ankirasa, Ambarisha, Yuvanasva
* '''Mowdkalya''' (three variations):
** Ankiras, Bharmyasva, Mowdgalya
** Tarkshya, Bharmyasva, Mowdgalya
** Ankirsa, Dhavya, Mowdgalya
* '''Sandilya''' (two variations):
** Kasyapa, Aavatsaara, Daivala
** Kasyapa, Aavatsaara, Sandilya
* '''Naitruvakaasyapa''': Kasyapa, Aavatsara, Naitruva
* '''Kutsa''': Aankirasa, Maandhatra,Kowtsa
* '''Kanva''' (two variations):
** Aankirasa, Ajameeda, Kaanva
** Aankirasa, Kowra, Kaanva
* '''Paraasara''': Vaasishta, Saaktya, Paarasarya
* '''Aagastya''': Aagastya, Tardhachyuta, Sowmavaha
* '''Gargi''' (two variations):
** Aankirasa, Bharhaspatya, Bharadwaja, Sainya, Gargya
** Aangirasa, Sainya, Gaargya
* '''Bhadarayana''': Aankirasa, Paarshadaswa, Raatitara
* '''Kasyapa''': Kasyapa, Aavatsaara, Daivala
* '''Sunkriti''' (two variations):
** Aankirasa, Kowravidha, Saankritya
** Sadhya, Kowravidha, Saankritya
*'''Thamasphala'''


==See also== ==See also==
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* ] * ]
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==References== ==References==

Latest revision as of 16:24, 27 December 2024

Lineage forming an exogamous clan in Vedic society "Gothra" redirects here. For other uses, see Gothra (disambiguation). Not to be confused with Gatra. For wasp genus, see Gotra (wasp).

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In Hindu culture, the term gotra (Sanskrit: गोत्र) is considered to be equivalent to lineage. It broadly refers to people who are descendants in an unbroken male line from a common male ancestor or patriline. Generally, the gotra forms an exogamous unit, with marriage within the same gotra being regarded as incest and prohibited by custom. The name of the gotra can be used as a surname, but it is different from a surname and is strictly maintained because of its importance in marriages among Hindus, especially among castes. Pāṇini defines gotra as apatyam pautraprabhrti gotram (IV. 1. 162), which means "the word gotra denotes the descendance (or descendants), apatya, of a couple consisting of a pautra, a son and a bharti, a mother, i.e. a daughter-in-law." (Based on Monier Williams Dictionary definitions.)

According to the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad 2.2.4, Kashyapa, Atri, Vasistha, Vishvamitra, Gautama Maharishi, Jamadagni and Bharadvaja are seven sages (also known as saptarishi) and Jambu Maharishi is another sage (also known as Renuka, who belongs to Kashyapa). The progeny of these eight sages are declared to be gotras. This enumeration of seven primary & one secondary gotra seems to have been known to Pāṇini. The offspring (apatya) of these seven are gotras and others than these are called gotrāvayava.

One who follows the system defined by three sages defines himself as Tri-a-Vishay. Similarly, for five sages, it is Pancha-Vishay, and for seven sages, it is Santa-Vishay.

There exists another theory about gotra: sons and disciples of a sage would have the same gotra; it is believed that they possess similar thoughts and philosophies. People of the same gotra can be found across different castes. Each gotra comprises pravaras.

While Hindu texts prescribe marrying within one's own community, they prohibit individuals from marrying those who belong to their own gotra, or lineage from the same Vedic sage:

One should not choose (the bride) from the same gotra or born in the line of same sage. (One may choose) from (descendants of) more than seven (generations) on the paternal side and more than five (generations) on the maternal side.

— Agni Purana, Chapter 154

Origins

As a Rigvedic term, gotra simply means "forward moving descendants". (गौः) गमन means forward moving and (त्र:) stands for Offspring. The specific meaning "family, lineage kin" (as it were "herd within an enclosure") is relatively more recent, first recorded around the mid-1st millennium BCE (e.g., Chandogya Upanishad).

These "lineages" as they developed among the Brahmin=Rajputs of that time meant patrilineal descent. The Brahman=Rajput system was later adopted by other communities, such as the Kshatriyas and Vaishyas

According to the Vedic theories, the Brahmin=Rajputs are direct descendants of seven sages who are believed to be the sons of Brahma, born out of his mind through yogic prowess. They are (1) Atri, (2) Bharadvaja, (3) Gautama Maharishi, (4) Jamadagni, (5) Kashyapa, (6) Vasishta and (7) Vishvamitra. To this list, Agastya is also sometimes added. These eight sages are called gotrakarins, from whom all 108 gotras (especially of the Brahmins) have evolved. For instance, from Atri sprang the Atreya and Gavisthiras gotras.

According to Robert Vane Russell, many gotras of Hindu religion are of totemic origin which is named after plants, animals, and natural objects. These are universal among tribes but occur also in Hindu castes. The commonest totem names are those of animals, including several which are held sacred by Hindus, as bagh or Nahar, the tiger; bachhas, the calf; murkuria, the peacock; kachhua, the tortoise; nagas, the cobra; hathi, the elephant; bhains, the buffalo; richaria, the bear; Kuliha, the Jackal, Kukura, the dog; kursaal, the deer; Hiran, the black-buck and so on. The utmost variety of names is found, and numerous trees, as well as rice and other crops, salt, sandalwood, cucumber, pepper, and some household implements such as pestle, rolling slab, serve as the names of clans. Thus the name of the rishi Bharadvaja means a lark bird, and Kaushika means descended from Kusha grass, Agastya from Agassi flower, Kashyapa from kachhap a tortoise, Taittiri from titer, partridge bird. Similarly, the origin of other rishis is attributed to animals, Rishyasringa to an antelope, Mandavya to a frog, Kanada to an owl. The usual characteristic of totemism is that the members of a clan regard themselves as related to or descended from, the animals or trees from which the clan takes its name, and abstain from killing or eating them.

A gotra must be distinguished from a kula. A kula is equal to a particular family, or equal to modern-day "clans". A kula relates to a caste.

Marriages and gotras

Marriages within the gotra ('sagotra' marriages) are not permitted under the rule of exogamy in the traditional matrimonial system. The compound word 'sagotra' is a union of the words 'sa' and 'gotra', where 'sa' means same or similar. It is common practice in preparation for Hindu marriage to inquire about the kula-gotra (clan lineage) of the bride and groom before approving the marriage. People within the gotra are considered as siblings and marrying such a person can lead to higher chances for the child to get genetically transferred diseases. In almost all Hindu families, marriage within the same gotra is not practiced (since they are believed to be descended from the same Lineage). Marriages between different gotras are encouraged; marriage within the same gotra started to happen later.

For example, Jats, Gurjars, and Rajputs have 13,000 Gotras . And Mudirajas of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu have 2,600 Gotras. Gotra is always passed on from father to children among most Hindu communities. However, among the Tulu people it is passed on from mother to child.

The tatsama words 'sahodara' (brother) and 'sahodari' (sister) derive their roots from the Sanskrit word 'sahara' (सहर) meaning co-uterine or born of the same womb. In communities where gotra membership passed from father to children, marriages were allowed between a woman and her maternal uncle, while such marriages were forbidden in matrilineal communities, like Tuluvas, where gotra membership was passed down from the mother.

A much more common characteristic of South Indian Hindu society is permission for marriage between cross-cousins (children of brother and sister) as they are of different gotras. Thus, a man is allowed to marry his maternal uncle's daughter or his paternal aunt's daughter but is not allowed to marry his paternal uncle's daughter. She would be considered a parallel cousin, of the same gotra, and therefore to be treated as a sister.

North Indian Hindu society not only follows the rules of gotra for marriages but also has many regulations which go beyond the basic definition of gotra and have a broader definition of incest. Some communities in North India do not allow marriage with certain other clans, based on the belief that both clans are of the same patrilineal descent. In other communities, marriage within the gotra of the mother's father, and possibly some others, is prohibited.

A possible workaround for Sagotra marriages is to perform a 'Data' (adoption) of the bride to a family of different gotra (usually data is given to the bride's maternal uncle who belongs to different gotra by the same rule) and let them perform the 'Kanyadanam' ('kanya' (girl) + 'danam' (to give)). Such workarounds are used in rare cases, and the acceptability is questionable.

Vedic Hinduism recognizes eight types of marriages, thus predominantly following the principles as stated in the Manu Smriti, referring to eight types of marriages, the roles, and responsibilities of husband and wife, and the purpose of marriage. Eight types of marriages are, (1) Brahma Vivaha, (2) Arsa Vivaha, (3) Daiva Vivaha, (4) Prajapatya Vivaha, (5) Gandharva Vivaha, (6) Asura Vivaha, (7) Rakshasa Vivaha, and (8) Paishacha Vivaha. The first four types of marriages reflect the paradigm behind arranged marriages. The last three are prohibited as per Manu Smriti, out of which the last two are condemned. The Gandharva marriage is analogous to the modern-day love marriage, where the individuals have the liberty to choose their partners. Though Gandharva marriage had its due prominence in the Shastras, with the advancement of time, Vedic Hinduism giving way to classic Hinduism, the concept of arranged marriage rose to prominence, which still today is predominant ritual for a marriage between two individuals.

There is no harm in Sagotra marriage if the individuals are not related for six generations on both maternal and paternal sides. This is expressed in chapter 5 of Manu smriti in mantra 60, which states, सपिण्डता तु पुरुषे सप्तमे विनिवर्तते । समानोदकभावस्तु जन्मनाम्नोरवेदने, which means that sapinda ends after seven generations. Section 5(v) of Hindu Marriage Act 1955 also prohibits Sapinda relationship but there is no restriction of Sagotra marriage.

Legal situation

While the gotras are almost universally used for excluding marriages that would be traditionally incestuous, they are not legally recognized as such, although those within "degrees of prohibited relationship" or who are "sapinda" are not permitted to marry. Khap panchayats in Haryana have campaigned to legally ban marriages within the same gotra. A convener of the Kadyan Khap, Naresh Kadyan, petitioned the courts to seek an amendment to the Hindu Marriage Act to legally prohibit such marriages. However, the petition was dismissed as withdrawn after being vacated, with the Delhi High Court warning that the Khap would face heavy penalty costs for wasting the time of the court.

In the 1945 case of Madhavrao vs Raghavendrarao, which involved a Deshastha Brahmin=Rajput couple, the definition of gotra as descending from eight sages and then branching out to several families was thrown out by the Bombay High Court. The court called the idea of Brahmin families descending from an unbroken line of common ancestors as indicated by the names of their respective gotras "impossible to accept." The court consulted relevant Hindu texts and stressed the need for Hindu society and law to keep up with the times, emphasizing that notions of good social behavior and the general ideology of the Hindu society had changed. The court also said that the material in the Hindu texts is so vast and full of contradictions that it is a near-impossible task to reduce it to order and coherence.

List of Gotras and Each Gotra's Rishis

  • Bharadwaja: Angirasa, Braahaspatya, Bharadwaja
  • Shatamarshana: Angirasa, Powrukutsa, Trasatasya
  • Atreya: Atreya, Aarchanaasa, Syaavaasva
  • Vatula: Bhargava, Vaitahavya, Saavedasa
  • Renukacharya: Revaṇārādhya, Revaṇasiddha, Veer, Veerabhadra.
  • Vatsa: Bhargava, Chyaavana, AApnavaana, Owrva, Jaamadaghnya
  • Kowsika: Vaiswaamitra, AAgamarshana, Kowsika
  • Viswamitra: Vaiswaamitra, Devaraata, Owtala or Vaiswaamitra, Ashtaka
  • Kowndinya: Vaasishta, Maitraavaruna, Kowndinya
  • Harita: Ankirasa, Ambarisha, Yuvanasva
  • Mowdkalya (three variations):
    • Ankiras, Bharmyasva, Mowdgalya
    • Tarkshya, Bharmyasva, Mowdgalya
    • Ankirsa, Dhavya, Mowdgalya
  • Sandilya (two variations):
    • Kasyapa, Aavatsaara, Daivala
    • Kasyapa, Aavatsaara, Sandilya
  • Naitruvakaasyapa: Kasyapa, Aavatsara, Naitruva
  • Kutsa: Aankirasa, Maandhatra,Kowtsa
  • Kanva (two variations):
    • Aankirasa, Ajameeda, Kaanva
    • Aankirasa, Kowra, Kaanva
  • Paraasara: Vaasishta, Saaktya, Paarasarya
  • Aagastya: Aagastya, Tardhachyuta, Sowmavaha
  • Gargi (two variations):
    • Aankirasa, Bharhaspatya, Bharadwaja, Sainya, Gargya
    • Aangirasa, Sainya, Gaargya
  • Bhadarayana: Aankirasa, Paarshadaswa, Raatitara
  • Kasyapa: Kasyapa, Aavatsaara, Daivala
  • Sunkriti (two variations):
    • Aankirasa, Kowravidha, Saankritya
    • Sadhya, Kowravidha, Saankritya
  • Thamasphala

See also

References

  1. Singer, Milton; Cohn, Bernard S., eds. (2007). Structure and change in Indian society (1. paperback printing ed.). New Brunswick, N.J.: AldineTransaction. p. 408. ISBN 978-0202361383.
  2. "Mana Sanskriti (Our Culture)". vedah.net (69). October 2003. Archived from the original on 14 October 2017. Retrieved 16 January 2009.
  3. www.wisdomlib.org (14 November 2021). "Rules of Marriage (vivāha) [Chapter 154]". www.wisdomlib.org. Retrieved 29 October 2022.
  4. Saraswati, Swami Dayanand (2010). Rigvedadi-Bhashya-Bhumika. Vijaykumar Govindram Hasanand. p. 199. ISBN 978-8170771296. Archived from the original on 26 March 2023. Retrieved 28 August 2022.
  5. "Gotra – Indian caste system". Encyclopædia Britann=Rajput. Archived from the original on 24 March 2015. Retrieved 24 March 2015.
  6. "Gotra". gurjari.net. Archived from the original on 22 October 2017. Retrieved 24 March 2015.
  7. Russell, Robert Vane (1916). The Tribes and Castes of the Central Provinces of India. London: Macmillan and Co. Public Domain This article incorporates text from this source, which is in the public domain.
  8. Sadagopan, V. (7 August 1995). "The 20 Gothrams". ramanuja.org.
  9. Mehndiratta, MM; Paul, B; Mehndiratta, P (2007). "Arranged marriage, consanguinity and epilepsy" (PDF). Neurology Asia. 12 (Supplement 1): 15–17. Archived (PDF) from the original on 24 August 2009. Retrieved 27 August 2009.
  10. Sex and Marriage: Marriage Rules (Part 1) Archived 26 September 2009 at the Wayback Machine. palomar.edu.
  11. Vashisht, Dinker (20 July 2009). "Haryana panchayat takes on govt over same-gotra marriage". indianexpress.com. Archived from the original on 15 May 2011. Retrieved 27 August 2009.
  12. "Manu Smriti". Archived from the original on 13 August 2017. Retrieved 19 April 2020.
  13. "The Hindu Marriage Act 1955" (PDF). Archived (PDF) from the original on 3 September 2013. Retrieved 19 April 2020.
  14. The Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 Archived 22 October 2015 at the Wayback Machine.
  15. HC throws out a plea to forbid same gotra marriages Archived 5 December 2012 at the Wayback Machine, The Hindu, June 2010.
  16. Anand, Pinky (28 July 2011). "The paradox of the 21st century". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 5 May 2014. Retrieved 5 May 2014.

Further reading

External links

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