Mahapatra or Mohapatra or Mahapatro is originally a Hindu family surname belonging to the Indian states of Odisha. This surname can be found among the Utkala Brahmins[1] and Karana community of Odisha.[2] Vaidik (Danua) Brahmins of Ganjam district also use this surname.

Social Status and Confusions

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Often Odia Mahapatro or Mahapatra Brahmins are confused with Kattaha Brahmins (also known as Maha Brahmins or Mahapatra) outside Odisha. While Kattaha Mahapatra Brahmins engage in Funeral Activities, Odia Mahapatro/ Mahapatra Brahmins are authorised to conduct Yagna and other Vedic rituals. They perform karm Kand i.e., brotopanoyan, marriage, shraddh ceremony, gruha and mandir pratishtha and receive daan or dakshina.

Notable people

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References

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  1. ^ The Orissa Historical Research Journal. Superintendent of Research and Museum. 1975.
  2. ^ Hust, Evelin (2004). Women's Political Representation and Empowerment in India: A Million Indiras Now?. Manohar. ISBN 978-81-7304-575-2.