What does the Rao surname mean?

The Rao surname means "King, ruler". It is of Sanskrit origin and is predominantly found among Various communities in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra.

What caste or community is the Rao surname from?

The Rao surname is traditionally associated with the Various community. Common honorific surname across South and Central India meaning king or chief.

Rao Surname

“King, ruler”

Also spelled: Rau

Various surnamesSanskrit origin · Telugu/Kannada

History & Significance

Common honorific surname across South and Central India meaning king or chief.

What is the Gotra for Rao?

Rao families belong to many Gotras: it is passed down the paternal line, not fixed by the surname. These 11 Gotras are the ones most often recorded among Rao families:

Dhananjaya Kanva Mandavya Shatamarshana Srivatsa Kapi Aapastamba Bodhayana

+ 3 more Gotras

Haritha Jaimini Nidagha

Not sure which one is yours?

Find Rao Gotra →

Meaning & Origin

Meaning: King, ruler
Origin: Sanskrit
Language: Telugu/Kannada
Category: Various

Regional Distribution

The Rao surname is predominantly found in:

Andhra Pradesh Karnataka Maharashtra

Related Surnames

ChowdaryHeadman, holder of a fourth share RajuKing

In the Blog

Rao Surname: Gotras Across Maratha, Telugu and Kannada Families

Explore the Rao surname origins, its use among Maratha, Telugu, and Kannada families, and the diverse Gotras associated with this title across regions.

Back to Surname Directory