Kaevan Umrigar, a Mumbai-based writer and documentary filmmaker, has added another feather to his cap as a surname analyst. His intriguing work delves into the origins and historical backgrounds of Parsi surnames, offering a deeper understanding of the communities from which these names hail. Umrigar’s captivating presentations and talks on Parsi surnames have been a significant draw at various community gatherings in Mumbai and Pune. This time, the Parsi community in Hyderabad has the opportunity to gain insights from him as he presents “Quirky Chronicles of Parsi Surnames” at the Sports Complex of the Zoroastrian Club in Secunderabad on June 9.
Umrigar’s fascination with surnames runs deep—not just Parsi surnames but the entire concept of surnames. He recalls, “Not just Parsi surnames. I was fascinated by the idea of surnames. Usually, people ask what is the meaning of one’s name. I would quietly wonder what that person’s surname meant.” This curiosity gradually transformed into a full-fledged personal research project where he unearthed fascinating facts about people’s surnames.
“Surnames provide a lot of insight into community history. It tells us about our forefathers, heritage, and whatnot. It also helps us identify where we migrated from. For example, it tells us about its social structure, network, and occupation,” he says. Through his studies, Umrigar has identified that surnames can serve as historical documents, echoing the socio-economic and migratory patterns of communities through time.
Umrigar engages his audience with a light-hearted take on the subject, ensuring that the information is both educational and entertaining. “If one wants they can take it on the right stride and laugh about it. Making jokes with surnames is however not the idea,” he clarifies. His project saw unexpected growth during the COVID-19 pandemic when he began addressing students about surname history.
. This initiative burgeoned as several people approached him, seeking historical context for their own surnames, broadening his research scope to encompass surnames beyond the Parsi community.
In preparing his talks, Kaevan employs a mixture of storytelling, humor, and poignant reflection to connect with his audience. Attendees learn about how various surnames indicate specific trades, geographical origins, and social status. For example, surnames like ‘Master’ could denote an educator, while names like ‘Batliwala’ could hint at a historical association with the trade of bottles. These explorations delve into how such names are not just identifiers but bearers of rich histories and legacies.
Kaevan’s research is meticulous, involving cross-referencing historical records, oral histories, and community anecdotes. His passion is evident when he shares the excitement of tracing a surname back to its roots. For instance, deciphering a surname like Dastur could reveal a lineage of religious leaders, providing invaluable context to those carrying the name today.
While explaining the historical implications of surnames, Umrigar also touches upon how they can foster a sense of identity and belonging. For individuals and families, understanding their surnames offers a connection to their ancestors and reinforces their links to the broader Parsi community. This understanding becomes even more critical in a multicultural society where younger generations might feel disconnected from their heritage.
Umrigar’s work extends beyond just academic interest; it’s a tool for community building. By uncovering and sharing the stories behind surnames, he helps people forge stronger connections with their past and each other. His sessions also provide a platform for older generations to share their family histories and learn about the broader historical framework in which their stories fit.
The significance of Umrigar’s work lies not just in the historical data it unearths but in the communal and familial bonds it strengthens. As he stands before an audience, whether they are students, scholars, or curious community members, the atmosphere teems with a shared excitement of discovery.
In Hyderabad, the anticipation is palpable as the June 9 event at the Sports Complex of the Zoroastrian Club in Secunderabad approaches. The community eagerly awaits what promises to be an enriching session filled with whimsical tales and profound insights into the world of Parsi surnames. His presentation is set to be a vivid tapestry, intertwining the threads of individual and collective memory, history, and identity.
