Shetty

Shetty is a surname most often associated with communities of the western coast of India, particularly among Tulu-speaking groups in coastal Karnataka (Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts) and in parts of northern Kerala, as well as among Konkani-speaking communities along the Konkan coast. It is one of the common family names in these regions and is also found among the Indian diaspora in the Gulf states, Europe, and North America.

Origin and meaning: The precise origin of the name is not definitively documented. It is commonly linked to historical occupational roles in the region, with the root "Shet" or related forms historically referring to a local administrator, landholder, or village head. Over time, the surname became hereditary and is strongly associated with the Bunt community of coastal Karnataka, though it is used by people across different communities as a surname today.

Social and cultural context: In Karnataka, Shetty families have played prominent roles in agriculture, trade, and small business. The surname is regional in origin and is now used by people from various social backgrounds. In contemporary society, it signals regional heritage more than a single caste or identity.

Notable people: Numerous individuals bearing the surname Shetty have achieved recognition in fields such as business, arts, sports, and politics, particularly within India and among the Indian diaspora. The name also appears in literature and media as a family name.