What is Gotra?
Gotra (गोत्र) is a system of clan identification used in Nepali, Hindu and Jain families to trace patrilineal descent from a specific sage or founding ancestor (rishi). It defines which families share a common bloodline and is traditionally used in marriage customs to ensure partners come from different lineages.
In Nepali culture, gotra is closely linked to the broader vamsavali (वंशावली) — the full lineage record of a family. Knowing your gotra tells you who your ancestors were and which branch of humanity your family descends from.
Why recording your Gotra matters
Gotra is most often held in the memory of elders. When that knowledge is not written down, it is lost within a generation. Many Nepali families living in the diaspora — in Australia, the US, the UK and the Gulf — find that their children and grandchildren no longer know their gotra.
Recording your gotra digitally, tied to your family tree, means it can never be forgotten. Your grandchildren will find it in the same place they find your grandfather's name and village.
- Store your gotra alongside every member's name and village.
- Pass it down automatically as children and grandchildren join the tree.
- Keep it private to your family, or share with the branches you choose.
How to record your Gotra on MyPusta
Adding your gotra takes under a minute.
- Create a free account and start your family tree.
- Add your gotra and ancestral village to your own profile.
- Add parents and grandparents — each generation inherits the lineage context.
- Invite relatives to verify or extend the record.
Frequently asked questions
What is gotra in Nepali culture?
Gotra (गोत्र) is a clan identifier that traces a family's patrilineal descent from a founding sage (rishi). It is used in marriage customs, religious ceremonies, and genealogical records to establish shared or distinct bloodlines.
How is gotra different from surname (thar)?
Thar (थर) is the family surname — like Sharma, Poudel or Thapa. Gotra is the deeper clan lineage, shared by many different thar families who descend from the same rishi. Two families can have the same gotra but different surnames.
Can I find my gotra online?
You can record and preserve your gotra on MyPusta. For families unsure of their gotra, the best source is an elder relative, a family priest (purohit), or an old vamsavali document. Once known, MyPusta keeps it safe forever.
Is MyPusta free for recording gotra and family trees?
Yes — MyPusta is completely free during our beta. Every family can record their gotra, build their वंशावली and preserve their lineage at no cost.