Naidu

Naidu is a surname and honorific widely used in the Telugu-speaking regions of India, particularly in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. It is adopted as a family name by many communities in these areas and is also found among Telugu-speaking people in other parts of India and abroad.

Origins and meaning: The term Naidu originated as a traditional Telugu title conferred on village heads, landlords, and local administrators. Over time, it became a hereditary surname for families associated with these roles. Today, Naidu as a surname is used across multiple communities and does not signify a single caste or profession.

Geographic distribution: The name is most prevalent in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, with smaller populations in neighboring states and in the Indian diaspora, particularly in countries with Telugu communities.

Notable people: N. Chandrababu Naidu (born 1950) is a prominent bearer of the name. He is an Indian politician who founded the Telugu Desam Party and served as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh.