Origin and Meaning of Desai

Chief or leader

Origin: Gujarati - Derived from the Gujarati term 'Desai' which denotes a village chief or headman in India. Historically, it referred to those in positions of authority.

• The surname Desai is commonly found among the Gujarati-speaking community in India and is often associated with landowners and the merchant class.
• Desai is a notable surname among several groups in India, particularly in Gujarat, and is sometimes used as a first name.
• Notable individuals with the surname Desai include B. R. Desai, a prominent Indian historian, and Vikram Desai, a known entrepreneur in the Indian tech industry.
• The name has gained recognition in various regions due to the Indian diaspora, especially in countries like the United States, Canada, and the UK.
• Variations of the name include Desai, Desha, and variations influenced by regional dialects or communities.