Bhoi

Bhoi is a surname and a community name used by several Hindu groups in India, most prominently in Odisha. The term is not confined to a single caste or social category; in Odisha it is associated with multiple lineages, and the same surname appears among different communities. In other parts of India and among Odia-speaking people abroad, Bhoi may be found among various groups, reflecting regional naming practices rather than a single, uniform social unit.

Origins and social composition: The use of Bhoi as a family name has historical roots in the eastern region of the Indian subcontinent. Because it is used by diverse groups, the precise social status or traditional occupation tied to the name varies by lineage and locality. Some Bhoi families in Odisha have historic associations with scholarly, temple, or administrative roles, while others are ordinary rural or urban households. The name functions as an umbrella designation for several lineages rather than a single endogamous community.

Culture and language: People bearing the Bhoi surname in Odisha and neighboring areas typically speak Odia and follow Hindu religious traditions common to the region, including major festivals and rites of passage in Odia society. Local customs, dialects, and cuisine reflect Odisha’s regional diversity, with practices that overlap with broader Odia cultural patterns.

Notable people: There are individuals with the Bhoi surname who have contributed to public life, academia, arts, and politics in India. The name also appears in historical records and genealogies describing local families and lineages.