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Draft:Gautam Gotra

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Gautam Gotra

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Gautam Gotra is one of the ancient and widely recognized gotras (clan lineages) among Brahmins and other Hindu communities in the Indian subcontinent, including Nepal and India. The term gotra refers to a patrilineal lineage system used in Hindu society, indicating descent from a common sage or rishi.

Origin

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The Gautam gotra traces its lineage to the sage Gautama Rishi, one of the revered Saptarishis (seven great sages) in Hindu mythology. He is credited with composing hymns in the Rigveda and is associated with deep spiritual wisdom and penance.

Communities

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Gautam gotra is found among various Hindu communities, including:

  • Brahmins (such as Jaisi and Khas Bahuns in Nepal, and various Brahmin subgroups in India)
  • Kshatriyas and some Vaishya communities in certain regions
  • Some Kayastha and other caste groups who may also claim Gautam gotra through ancestral or spiritual lineage

Cultural Significance

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People belonging to Gautam gotra traditionally avoid marrying within the same gotra, following the rule of exogamy, which prohibits marriage among individuals of the same ancestral lineage. This is based on the belief that people of the same gotra are considered siblings by lineage.

The gotra is often recited during Hindu rituals and ceremonies, especially during upanayana (sacred thread ceremony), vivaha (marriage), and shraddha (ancestral rituals), to identify one’s spiritual and ancestral heritage.

Gautama Rishi in Scriptures

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Gautama Rishi is a significant figure in various Hindu texts:

  • In the Rigveda, he is mentioned as a sage and seer.
  • In the Ramayana and Mahabharata, he appears as a learned rishi, with his hermitage being a place of spiritual learning.
  • He is also associated with the story of Ahalya, his wife, and her redemption by Lord Rama.

Notable Surnames Associated

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Certain Brahmin surnames associated with Gautam gotra include:

  • Gautam
  • Sharma
  • Joshi
  • Pandey
  • Bhatt
  • Padal (found in specific Nepali Brahmin communities)

See also

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References

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Categories

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References

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