Tanwar

Tanwar is a surname and Rajput clan found in northern India. It is commonly associated with the Tomar (Tomara) lineage, and in many local traditions the name is treated as a variant spelling of Tomar or Tanwar. The Tanwars form part of the broader Rajput social order, and their historical identities are often linked to medieval warrior lineages connected with the Tomar dynasty.

Geographically, the Tanwar surname is concentrated in Rajasthan and Haryana, with significant communities in Delhi and western Uttar Pradesh. Smaller populations are found in other northern states, and the name also appears within Indian diaspora communities abroad. Local genealogies and social histories can vary, and different districts may preserve distinct sub-clan distinctions or spellings.

Historically, many Tanwars were associated with feudal and military roles in regional polities. They have been linked to landholdings, governance in petty principalities, and participation in regional warfare and court life. In contemporary times, bearers of the Tanwar surname pursue a wide range of professions, including politics, administration, business, education, and the arts. Culturally, Tanwar communities often practice north Indian Hindu customs, including traditional ceremonies and rites; as with many Rajput groups, practices may vary by locality and family. Some Tanwar families are found within other communities through intermarriage and social mobility, reflecting the diverse social fabric of northern India.

Notable people with the Tanwar surname appear across politics, entertainment, sports, and public life in India, though specific individuals vary by region and time.