Mahanty/Mohanty surname caste in Odisha, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal.
Mahanty/ Mohanty/Mahanti is neither caste nor a family. It is only an honorific title. The surname Mahanty, alternatively spelled as Mahanti, Mohanty, and Mahanthi (మహంతి), originates from the Sanskrit terms "Mahan" and "Mahant," both signifying "great." These names reflect individuals of considerable influence who, through their personal charisma, intelligence, wisdom, or expertise, wielded their power in a manner that left a lasting and significant impact, earning them the esteemed recognition of greatness. It is pertinent to note that Mahanty, along with its alternative spellings Mohanty, Mahanti, and Mahanthi (మహంతి), served as an honorific title (उपाधि/पदवी) bestowed by the kings of Utkala, encompassing present-day Odisha and Bankura, Purulia and Midnapore district of West Bengal. This recognition, granted irrespective of caste considerations, was conferred upon individuals with profound expertise in fields such as administration and accounting durin...