indian names boy and girl: Meanings and Origins of Traditional Monikers

Indian names for boys and girls are steeped in tradition, culture and meaning. Many Indian names are inspired by figures in Hindu mythology, while others have their origins in Sanskrit words denoting virtuous qualities. When selecting names for their children, Indian parents often choose names with beautiful meanings that they hope their child will embody.

Indian names boy and girl carry symbolism from ancient texts and scriptures. The name choices reflect the values Indians cherish in their culture. As the diverse cultures of India have evolved over millennia, so too have the naming practices and popular name choices. Yet classic names with poetic meanings endure in their appeal.

Radhika - Means "worshiper of Radha". In Hindu belief, Radha was the goddess consort and beloved of the god Krishna. Giving this name expresses devotion.

Amit - This modern name comes from a Sanskrit word meaning "endless, boundless" denoting longevity. It signals the parents' blessing for a long, fruitful life.

Deepika - Feminine form of the masculine name Deepak. It stems from the word deep, referring to a lamp or flame. The implied meaning is "one who spreads light".

Raj - A common name meaning "king" or "ruler". It represents noble leadership qualities.

Priya - This lyrical girls' name means "beloved". It reflects warmth and affection.

Arnav - This modern boys' name traces back to a Sanskrit word for ocean, denoting strength and vitality.

Nitya - This feminine name means "eternal, perpetual". It suggests consistency and longevity, virtues highly prized in Indian culture.

Vikram - This regal boys name combines the Sanskrit elements for "valour" and "stepping forward," together meaning "one who is heroic and advancing."

Anjali - This graceful name means “offering” or “tribute” in Sanskrit. It conveys the parents’ gift of their child.

Devan - The name Devan comes from a Sanskrit word for “deity” or “divine being”, denoting holiness.

Leela - Meaning “play” or “amusement”, this lively name reflects joy and lightheartedness.

Aditya - This bright boys name traces back to the Hindu sun god Surya and conveys “sun-like” brilliance.

Aadhya - Feminine for “first” or “beginning”, this name hints at a child who leads others and stands apart.

Vishesh - “Special” or “distinguished” is the apt meaning of this distinguished boys moniker.

Trisha - Meaning “noble thirst”, this name is thought to signify seeking knowledge and aspiration.

Varun - This oceanic name ties back to Varuna, Vedic god of cosmic waters, evoking fluid strength.

Ananya - Stemming from “peerless”, this girls name reflects incomparability and uniqueness.

Vihaan - A spirited boys name hinting at dawn’s first light and a hopeful new day arriving.

Aarya - This regal moniker stems from a word meaning “noble goddess”, exuding divine femininity.

Zayan - An unconventional name, Zayan traces back to an Arabic word for “graceful beauty”.

Riya - Short, sweet, and melodic, Riya’s meaning is simply “singer” denoting musicality.

Reyansh - Meaning “ray of light”, this luminous boys name radiates positivity.

Ashna - This affectionate name means “friend” reflecting loyalty and companionship.

Vivaan - Vivacious Vivaan comes from the Sanskrit for “full of life”, perfect for a high-energy boy.

Sia - A brief but resilient girls name, Sia has old Persian origins meaning “protected”.

Neel - The straightforward name Neel translates from Sanskrit as “blue” or the color of Krishna.

Myra - This poetic girls name stems from an ancient Greek word for “perfume”.

Kabir - Kabir traces back to Arabic meaning “great” or “big”, conveying power and strength.

Nila - The feminine form of Neel, Nila also translates from Sanskrit as the rich color “dark blue.”

Garv - This prideful boys name stems from a Sanskrit word meaning “dignified”, denoting self-assurance.

Bhavna - Kind-hearted Bhavna means “feeling” or “emotion” in Sanskrit, showing sensitivity.

Manas - Stemming from mind or intellect, this cerebral boys name signifies wisdom and reflection.

Pakhi - This bird-inspired name means “winged” in Bengali, graceful and delicate like a feather.