Mistry

Mistry is a surname of Indian origin that is used by people across the Indian subcontinent and in the global diaspora. It derives from the occupational term mistri, meaning craftsman, builder, or mason. The word is found in Gujarati and Marathi linguistic regions and is linked to historical roles in construction and skilled trades, with origins tracing back through linguistic borrowings from Persian and Arabic.

Etymology and usage: The surname is historically associated with families whose ancestors were craftsmen or contractors involved in building projects, such as homes, temples, and other structures. Over time, Mistry has become a common family name beyond its original occupational context, carried by individuals across various communities and religions.

Geographic distribution and communities: In India, Mistry is most prevalent among Gujarati- and Marathi-speaking populations and is found among Hindu, Muslim, Jain, and Parsi communities. It is also present among Sindhi populations and has spread to the Indian diaspora in countries such as the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, East Africa, the Gulf states, and beyond. The surname is typical of occupational origin names and does not denote a single caste or strict community identity today.

Variants and notes: The spelling Mistri is a regional variant that can be encountered in records and everyday usage. Like many Indian surnames with occupational roots, Mistry is now used by diverse families with no single, uniform caste or religious affiliation, reflecting broader social and geographical mobility over time.