Raut

Raut is a surname widely used in India, with particular prominence in the state of Maharashtra. It is also found in neighboring regions such as Goa, Karnataka, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh, and among Indian communities abroad. The name is used by people from diverse linguistic and religious backgrounds, and it is not confined to a single community or profession.

Origin and meaning

The exact origin of the surname Raut is uncertain, and several theories exist. Some connections are drawn to historical titles or roles associated with local governance or landholding in medieval western India, while others reference Indo-Aryan linguistic roots linked to leadership or authority. Because it spans multiple communities, Raut does not denote a single caste or occupation in contemporary usage.

Usage and variants

In many families, Raut is a patronymic or family name passed through generations. It may appear as a middle name or initials in some naming conventions. Spelling variations include Rout and other regional transliterations, reflecting differences in language and script.

Geographic distribution and diaspora

Within India, Rauts are most commonly reported in Maharashtra, with concentrations in urban centers and rural districts alike. They are also present in western and central Indian regions and have spread to major metropolitan areas such as Mumbai, Pune, and Bengaluru through internal migration. As with many Indian surnames, Raut has been carried to international diaspora communities in North America, Europe, the Middle East, and elsewhere, where individuals continue to retain cultural connections to their heritage.

See also

Raut (surname) is part of a broader pattern of regional surnames in South Asia.