What is "ballal"

Ballal also Ballala derived from Sanskrit word Bal and meaning powerful in the Tulu language, is a title used as a surname in modern times mostly by the Bunt, Brahmin and Jain people of Karnataka, India. Ballal was generally a title assumed by local kings or chieftains in Tulu Nadu region.

Ruling Bunt clans irrespective of whether they use the title Ballal or not are colloquially and collectively referred to as Ballal Bunt. The origin of the title Ballal is explained by a proverb which goes when a Bunt becomes powerful he becomes a Ballal. Some Bunts who use the surname Ballal also trace direct maternal descent from the Bunt princess Krishnayitayi and her husband the Hoysala Emperor, Veera Ballala III.

Tulu language speaking Shivalli Brahmin families of Ambalpady and Chitpady of Udupi also have the Ballal surname. Ambalpady and Chitpady Beedu is considered as their original home. These Ballal families are running temples in their respective areas.

Deshastha Brahmin families also use the surname Ballal.

There are example of Ballal in recent history, like Marathi nobles such as Bajirao Ballal Peshwa, who served as a premier and military general of the 18th century Maratha India. Today it is used as a last name by some Konkani and Marathi people.