Indian last names, particularly Hindu last names, are derived from religion, occupation and region, much like other nationalities. But there's a fourth determinant: caste. The caste system, which determines a person's place in society, is now outlawed in India, but still followed culturally. Singh, for example means "lion" and is usually associated with the warrior caste, the Kshatriyas.
Most Popular Indian Last Names on FamilyEducation: Patel, Chatterjee, Singh
Image: Temple Akshardham in New Delhi, India