What is "gjelaj"

Gjelaj is a surname (fis) of Albanian origin. The Gjelaj's derive from the alpine village of Thethi, Shale. Today, the town of Thethi is credited as the national park of Albania. Shala, along with Shoshi, are tribes within the region of Dukagjini, which is situated in the Prokletije. Most families within the Gjelaj fis have migrated to other places in search for a better living. Today, most of the Gjelaj's today currently live in the United States.

Another Gjelaj surname (fis) derive from the tribe of Hoti, Malesia e Madhe.

There is also a fis of Gjelajs from Kelmendi, Albania residing in the United States.