Panda Surname
“Priest / Pandit”
History & Significance
An Odia Brahmin surname derived from 'Pandita' meaning learned scholar or priest. Pandas are traditionally the hereditary priests of the Jagannath temple at Puri, known as 'sevayats,' who perform rituals for pilgrims. The Panda community holds a unique and sacred role in the religious life of Odisha and millions of Jagannath devotees.
What is the Gotra for Panda?
Gotra is passed down through the paternal line and may vary within families sharing the same surname. Use our Gotra Finder to discover which Gotra your family belongs to.
Find Panda Gotra →Meaning & Origin
- Meaning
- Priest / Pandit
- Origin
- Sanskrit (Pandita — scholar, priest)
- Language
- Odia
- Category
- Brahmin
Regional Distribution
The Panda surname is predominantly found in:
Related Surnames
In the Blog
What the Gaya, Haridwar and Pushkar Pandas' Family Registers Record
Discover how the pandas of Gaya, Haridwar and Pushkar maintain ancient family registers recording Hindu Gotra, Pravara, and Kul Devta lineages.
Panda and Mohanty Surnames: Odia Brahmin and Karana Lineages Explored
Discover the origins, communities, Gotras, and regional variations of Panda and Mohanty surnames in Odisha's Brahmin and Karana lineages.