The Madanu Family

The surname "Madanu" is primarily found in Hyderabad, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh, with a strong presence in South India, and some global diaspora in places like the USA and DR Congo. Research suggests it is linked to the Thogata Veera Kshatriya caste, a weaving community claiming Kshatriya status, with possible origins tied to their traditional occupation or the Sanskrit term "Madana," meaning the god of love, though this connection is not definitive.

It seems likely that "Madanu" originated in Rayalaseema, spreading to Hyderabad and other areas due to migration for economic opportunities, especially in weaving. The community worships Goddess Chowdeswari Devi, with festivals like Jyothi Utsava being significant, and is recognized as an Other Backward Class (OBC) in several states.

The evidence leans toward the surname evolving with the community's shift from weaving to diverse professions, maintaining cultural practices like Vaishnavite traditions. In Hyderabad, the Madanu family has a notable Catholic connection, with several members becoming priests, possibly converting during the 19th or 20th century amid missionary activities, though exact conversion dates are hard to pinpoint.

Several Madanu individuals have served as Catholic priests. This highlights their influence within the Catholic community, particularly in Hyderabad and abroad.