Gotra — paternal lineage tradition. Every Hindu belongs to a gotra. Descendants of original 7 rishis (Saptarishi). 8th: Agastya.
Mandatory in marriage matching, shradh, sankalp.
✦ What is Gotra
Gotra = rishi lineage, runs through male line.
Daughter takes husband's gotra after marriage.
Adopted child: new father's gotra.
✦ Marriage Rules
Same-gotra marriage forbidden (genetic disorder prevention).
Maternal-uncle gotra also avoided.
Sapinda restriction: 7 gens paternal, 5 maternal.
South India: maternal cousin marriage common.
✦ Pravara
Pravara = distinguished ancestors of gotra.
Example: Bharadwaja gotra — Angiras, Barhaspatya, Bharadwaja.
Spoken in sankalp.
📚Sources & References
Content in this article is verified against the following classical and modern authoritative sources. Readers may independently verify against the original sources.
- ▪Surya Siddhanta — classical Sanskrit astronomical text (~5th century CE)
- ▪Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra — foundational text on Vedic astrology by Maharishi Parashara
- ▪Muhurta Chintamani by Ram Daivajna (16th century) — standard reference for muhurat selection
- ▪Astronomical Algorithms by Jean Meeus (Willmann-Bell, 1998) — basis for all astronomical computations on this site
- ▪Lahiri Ayanamsa — standard sidereal reference adopted by the Indian Calendar Reform Committee (1955)
✦ Frequently Asked Questions
Why same-gotra forbidden?▼
Genetic: close blood relation = disease risk.
Marrying foreigner?▼
Gotra rules don't apply. Some shastras grant "Vasishtha gotra" after sanskar.
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Note: This content is published for educational and cultural reference. For personal religious or astrological decisions, please consult a qualified pandit or jyotishi.