Joshi

Origin & History

Joshi comes from the Sanskrit 'jyotiṣī', meaning 'astrologer' or 'one who practices jyotish (Vedic astrology)'. It is a Brahmin surname found across Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. Joshis historically served as court astrologers, temple priests, and scholars. In Nepal, the Joshi community also holds significant religious and administrative heritage.