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BHIL Surname Meaning & Heritage Data

276th

Most common surname in India

2,95,627

People with this surname currently in the iMeUsWe database

History:

The "Bhil" surname represents one of India’s oldest tribal communities, with roots tracing back to the mythological era. According to Hindu epics like the Mahabharata, the Bhil community is mentioned for their archery skills and connection to nature. Eklavya, a legendary figure from the Mahabharata, is often considered a symbolic ancestor of the Bhils. The surname originates from the word bil, meaning "bow" in Dravidian languages, highlighting their traditional role as hunters and warriors. The Bhil community is widespread across Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and parts of Odisha. Political mobilization among the Bhils has been significant in recent decades, focusing on tribal rights, forest conservation, and representation in local governance. Migration patterns show their movement from forested areas to urban centers for education and livelihood, although many continue to inhabit tribal regions. Festivals like Bhagoria Haat, Divasa, and Teej are culturally significant, celebrating community unity and nature.

Description:

Bhil is a surname that is commonly found in India, particularly in the western and central parts of the country. This surname is associated with the Bhil community, which is one of the largest tribal groups in India. The Bhil community is further divided into various sub-communities and sub-castes, including the Bhilala, Rathwa, and Gamit.

The Bhil surname is prevalent in states like Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Odisha. Bhil communities speak diverse languages, including Bhili, Gujarati, Marathi, and Hindi, depending on the region. Their festivals, such as Bhagoria Haat, are marked by vibrant dances, fairs, and rituals tied to harvest and love. Bhil families value community solidarity, respect for elders, and a strong connection to their traditions. Traditional food includes coarse grains like millets, forest produce, and festive dishes like bajra roti and mahua liquor. Literacy rates among Bhils are improving due to government programs, although education access remains a challenge in remote areas. Historically, their occupations included hunting, agriculture, and craftsmanship, particularly in creating weapons and ornaments. Modern Bhils are increasingly involved in small businesses, teaching, and government services. Noble personalities from the Bhil community include leaders and activists advocating for tribal rights, making the Bhil surname a symbol of resilience and cultural richness.

This surname is a fascinating one! Its got a strong history and a few interesting variations. Lets see, theres the classic spelling, of course, and then theres a more modern version thats a bit shorter. And for a truly unique twist, theres a variation that uses a different letter altogether. These variations add a touch of personality and intrigue to the surname.

State-wise distribution of people with BHIL surname

from iMeUsWe Database

Maharashtra state distribution for BHIL surname

Maharashtra

84,852

Madhya Pradesh state distribution for BHIL surname

Madhya Pradesh

64,426

Gujarat state distribution for BHIL surname

Gujarat

59,739

Punjab state distribution for BHIL surname

Punjab

10,567

Rajasthan state distribution for BHIL surname

Rajasthan

5,188

Kerala state distribution for BHIL surname

Kerala

268

Uttar Pradesh state distribution for BHIL surname

Uttar Pradesh

211

Bihar state distribution for BHIL surname

Bihar

70

Delhi state distribution for BHIL surname

Delhi

42

Meghalaya state distribution for BHIL surname

Meghalaya

24

Category-wise distribution of people with BHIL surname

from iMeUsWe Database

People with the surname BHIL appear across 5 types of official government records in iMeUsWe's database — from electoral rolls to agricultural records — showing how widely distributed this surname is across Indian society.

Food Distribution Records category for BHIL surname

1,33,291 (59%)

Food Distribution Records

Voters List category for BHIL surname

59,234 (26%)

Voters List

Farmer Beneficiary Records category for BHIL surname

32,826 (15%)

Farmer Beneficiary Records

Investor & Taxpayer Records category for BHIL surname

42 (0.0%)

Investor & Taxpayer Records

Govertment Farmers Benificary List category for BHIL surname

22 (0.0%)

Govertment Farmers Benificary List

Frequently Asked Questions

BHIL families worship SEVALAL MAHARAJ as their Kuldevta (family deity).

The BHIL surname is found across multiple communities including Bhil, Bhaina / Bhil, Dhodia, Meena, Raji, Rathawa, Gaderia, Valmiki, Lambadi (sugali), Baiga communities.

The BHIL surname is primarily associated with the Hindu religion.

Maharashtra has the highest concentration of the BHIL surname with 84,852 records (37.6%).

The BHIL surname is written in MARATHI script.

BHIL is ranked #276 in India with approximately 2,95,627 people bearing this surname.

The BHIL surname is found across 10 states, with the top 3 being Maharashtra (37.6%), Madhya Pradesh (28.6%), Gujarat (26.5%).

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