Upajjhaya

In a Buddhist context, an Upajjhaya (also spelled upadhyaya), literally a (spiritual) "preceptor" (monk or saint), is one of the two teachers of a novice monk – the other one being the Acariya. An Upajjhaya will focus on teaching ethics, morality, good manners and decency. Upadhyaya means teacher in Sanskrit.

Upadhyaya or Upadhyay is the surname of Brahmins from near Baliya Village and nearly all the cities of India and Indian subcontinents- traditionally similar to the surname's meaning Upadhyaya's were Teachers and Priests. Upadhyaya is also the surname of some members of
Shivalli Madhwa Brahmins of Karnataka and Audichya Brahmins of Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh states. The Gujarat Brahmins of Shandilya borne are in City of Surat of Gujarat State. Rishi Shandilya the astronomer and teacher of Nandji's Dynasty especially Vasudeva-Yashoda who was a Pundit of Nomenculature process/ Name ceremony of Lord Krishna and Balram ji; who Organized Brahmin leaders in this ceremony of God Krishna.

Upadhyay is also the surname used by the "purbeli" or eastern brahmins of Nepal.

Etymology:
*Sanskrit: "upādhyāya"