Surname Waghals - Meaning and Origin

Waghals: What does the surname Waghals mean?

The last name Waghals is believed to be of Indian origin, originating in the state of Maharashtra. It is derived from the Hindi word 'Vahal,' which means 'leopard.' As such, it is likely that the earliest Waghals were either hunters or from a family of leopard-skin sellers. As a result, the surname is generally associated with people of the Kshatriya or warrior caste, although the modern surname could also be a combination of the words "vah" and "gals", meaning 'tiger.'

The Waghals surname is quite rare, and there has been virtually no research done into its origins, so its exact meaning is not known. Some examples of the name have been found on census data from 1916 India, which suggests that the name does go back that far.

The meaning behind the name can have different interpretations based on each individual's personal choices and beliefs, however it is likely that the historical background of the name is centered around strength, courage and pride. These values remain highly relevant in modern times, and today the Waghals surname is sought after by many proud families and individuals who strive to uphold the values and tradition associated with it.

Waghals: Where does the name Waghals come from?

The last name Waghals is most commonly found in and around Gujarat in India. It is an Indian surname associated with the Gujarati language and culture, and is used by many Sikh, Jain, and Hindu families. It is most highly concentrated in the state of Maharashtra, particularly in and around the cities of Mumbai, Pune, and Ahmednagar. It can also be found in certain parts of Goa, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh.

Outside of India, Waghals is a relatively uncommon name. It is scarcely found in the United States, and is otherwise rarely used in other countries. It is usually pronounced as “Wah-gals” and can be written in various spellings, such as Vaghela, Vaghil, Vahale, and Vaghale.

Gujarati-speaking families with the Waghals surname are most likely of Brahmin or Kshatriya origin, making them members of the upper caste classes in olden days. This high-status background combined with the significant presence of the Waghals surname in modern-day Gujarat may indicate a history of noble social standing and respectability in the past.

Variations of the surname Waghals

The surname Waghals is derived from a Sanskrit word meaning a "tiger." The variants of this surname can be found in different regions of South Asia and other parts of the world.

In India and Pakistan, the common variants of the Waghals surname are Waghela, Wagle, Wagholi, Wagli, Waglee, Waglekara, Waghlani, Waglani, Wagla, and Wagla. In the southern region of India, the spelling is often changed to Vaghale or Vaghlai. In the state of Gujarat, the spelling is often spelt as Vaghela.

In Nepal, there is a similar spelling of the surname Vachhal. In the western Indian State of Maharashtra, the surname is spelled as Vaghal or Vakhar.

In the United Kingdom and United States, the spelling of the surname is usually changed to Wagle or Waggle.

The common surnames that are related to Waghals are Vagh, Wag, Vagheshwari, Waghe, Dharmshala, Vagheshwar, and Jalalpur. These surnames have their origin in the Waghals surname and are often found in parts of India and Pakistan.

Overall, the variants of the surname Waghals are numerous and spread across many countries and regions. No matter what variant of the surname is used, it pays tribute to its tiger origin.

Famous people with the name Waghals

• Bombay Jayashri Ramnath: An acclaimed Indian classical vocalist, she was awarded the Padma Shri, India’s fourth highest civilian honour.
• Milind Waghal: A prominent Indian politician from the state of Maharashtra, he has held several ministerial positions in the state government.
• Devdutt Waghal: A notable author and academic, his most famous works include “A History of Indian Archaeology” and “Myths and Symbols of Hinduism.”
• Oswal Waghal: A famous painter and sculptor, his work has been exhibited throughout the world and is part of various collections.
• Prateek Waghal: A prominent film director, he has been behind several acclaimed hits like “Ek Vivah Aisa Bhi” and “Khoobsurat.”
• Boman Waghal: A famous Bollywood actor, he is most widely known for his portrayal of police inspector Tejpal Randhawa in the movie “Gangs of Wasseypur.”
• Amita Waghal: A prominent classical musician, she has released various albums and played at major music festivals worldwide.
• Lakshman Waghal: A renowned Indian classical vocalist, he is noted for performing at several international as well as national music festivals.
• Abhijit Waghal: A lead vocalist of folk and Indian classical music, he has released several albums and has been featured in various TV shows and performances.
• Manoj Waghal: A famous artist and sculptor, his work is part of several art collections and museums worldwide.

Other surnames

Waghalter