It comes from Sanskrit roots variously meaning “bliss,” “happiness,” or “warmth.” The name is historically associated with the Brahmin (priest and teacher) caste, but many contemporary families bear the name across social classes—and across the globe. Many well-known people have had the last name Sharma.

Which is the highest caste in Brahmins?

At the top of the hierarchy were the Brahmins who were mainly teachers and intellectuals and are believed to have come from Brahma's head. Then came the Kshatriyas, or the warriors and rulers, supposedly from his arms. The third slot went to the Vaishyas, or the traders, who were created from his thighs.

What caste is Sharma in Bihar?

In Bihar, the Bhumihars started using the surname Sharma and the title Pandit in the 20th century. Other common traditional Brahmin surnames used by the Bhumihars include Mishra, Dikshit, Tivan, Pathak, Pande and Upadhyaya.