Reevaluating the Gotra System: Bridging Vedic Traditions with Contemporary Genetics in India

Abstract This article critically examines the Gotra system, a traditional lineage-based framework integral to Vedic culture in India, and its intersection with modern genetic understanding. The Gotra system, aimed at preventing consanguinity in marriages by tracing male descent from common ancestors, has influenced matrimonial customs and social structures. With advancements in genetics, there is a growing need to reassess this system’s application in contemporary society. The article explores the role of the Y chromosome in lineage tracing, the genetic implications of consanguinity, and the system’s impact on genetic health. By analyzing recent genetic studies and their correlations with the Gotra system, the article delves into the complex interplay between cultural heritage and genetic science in India, highlighting the need for integrating traditional practices with modern medical insights for managing genetic health.