Discover and Shortlist Your Perfect Baby Names!
Indian names are rooted in cultural, religious, and linguistic diversity, drawing from languages like Sanskrit, Hindi, Urdu, and Tamil. Many names reflect virtues, mythology, or spiritual significance, such as Arjun (courage) or Lakshmi (wealth). Regional naming traditions often intertwine with astrological beliefs, making Indian names deeply meaningful and unique.
| Name | Meaning | Origins | Gender | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sanshita | Sanshita: Indian name meaning "well-behaved," gaining global recognition. | Indian | Girl | |
| Santayani | Santayani: Unique Indian name meaning "vehicle of peace" for girls. | Indian | Girl | |
| Santha | Santha: Indian name meaning "peace," associated with grace and tranquility. | Indian | Girl | |
| Santhosh | Santhosh means "happiness" in Sanskrit; originates from Indian culture. | Indian, Tamil | Boy | |
| Santokhi | Santokhi: Indian name meaning contentment, unique, male, three syllables. | Indian | Boy | |
| Santokumari | Santokumari means "princess of contentment," reflecting peace and satisfaction. | Indian | Girl | |
| Santosh | Santosh: Unisex Indian name meaning "contentment," popular during Diwali. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Santoshan | Santoshan means "contentment" in Sanskrit; it's a unique male name. | Indian | Boy | |
| Santoshni | Santoshni: Indian name meaning "contentment," elegant, and culturally significant. | Indian | Girl | |
| Santu | Santu: Indian name meaning "peaceful," unique, culturally significant, traditionally male. | Indian | Boy | |
| Santwana | Santwana: Indian name meaning "consolation," unique, graceful, and soothing. | Indian | Girl | |
| Sanvi | Sanvi: Indian name meaning "knowledge," popular for baby girls. | Indian | Girl | |
| Sanwal | Sanwal means "beautiful" in Arabic; it has Persian origins. | Arabic, Indian, Persian | Either | |
| Sanwari | Sanwari: Unique Indian name meaning "dusky," linked to goddess Kali. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Sanya | Sanya: Derived from Sanskrit, meaning "prosperous" or "brilliant." | Amharic, Arabic, Indian | Girl. | |
| Sanyog | Sanyog: Unisex Indian name meaning "coincidence" or "connection"; spiritually significant. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Sanyogita | Sanyogita: Indian name meaning "fortunate union," gaining global popularity. | Indian | Girl | |
| Sapan | Sapan: unisex Indian name meaning "dream" or "wish," historically significant. | Indian, Nepali | Unisex | |
| Sappi | Sappi means "beautiful," has Hebrew roots, and is unique. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Sarad | Sarad: Indian name meaning "autumn," symbolizing harvest, wisdom, creativity. | Indian | Boy | |
| Saradha | Saradha: Indian name meaning "autumn," symbolizing beauty and transformation. | Indian | Girl | |
| Saraiya | Saraiya: Indian name meaning "princess," gaining popularity among parents. | Indian | Girl | |
| Sarakshi | Sarakshi means "essence of eyes," a unique Indian girl's name. | Indian | Girl | |
| Saralaa | Saralaa: Indian name meaning "simple," gaining popularity for its elegance. | Indian | Girl | |
| Sarali | Sarali: Indian name meaning "simple," elegant, and traditionally significant. | Indian | Girl | |
| Sarang | Sarang: Indian name meaning "affection," gaining global popularity for boys. | Indian | Boy | |
| Sarangi | Sarangi: Indian name meaning "musical instrument," gaining popularity globally. | Indian | Girl | |
| Saranjith | Saranjith: Indian name meaning "victorious," unique and culturally significant. | Indian | Boy | |
| Sarasi | Sarasi: Unisex name meaning "like a lake," derived from Sanskrit. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Saraswathyamma | Saraswathyamma symbolizes knowledge and creativity, rooted in Hindu tradition. | Indian | Girl |
The name 'Indian' originates from the misidentification of the Americas by Christopher Columbus. Columbus believed he had reached the Indian subcontinent when he arrived in the New World. The term stuck and was used to refer to the indigenous peoples of the Americas.
Native Americans were called Indians because Columbus mistakenly thought he had landed in India. This error led to the use of the term 'Indian' to describe the native people he encountered. The name has persisted throughout history despite its inaccuracy.
The term 'Indian' is considered inappropriate and inaccurate for referring to Native Americans. Many people prefer 'Native American' or 'Indigenous Peoples' to more accurately reflect their cultural and historical identity. The term 'Indian' can be seen as a relic of colonial misnaming.
Columbus called the inhabitants of the New World 'Indians' because he believed he had reached the Indies. The Indies was a term used at the time to describe Asia's Southeast region, including India. This misnomer has had a lasting impact on the nomenclature of the Americas' indigenous peoples.
The term 'Indian' evolved to refer not only to the indigenous peoples of the Caribbean but also to those of the entire American continent. Over time, it became a general term used by European colonizers. Today, it is used in various contexts, including the legal names of some tribes and in government documents.
Alternatives to using the term 'Indian' for Native Americans include 'Native American,' 'Indigenous Peoples,' and specific tribal names. These terms are more culturally sensitive and accurate. They are widely accepted and used in contemporary discourse.
Native Americans have diverse opinions about the term 'Indian,' with some accepting it and others finding it offensive. The preference for terminology often depends on individual and community perspectives. Many advocate for self-identification and the use of specific tribal names.
The term 'Indian' still has legal status in the United States, as it is used in federal law and documents. It is found in the names of legislation, such as the Indian Civil Rights Act. However, there is a push towards using more accurate and respectful terminology in legal contexts.
The term 'Indian' relates to people from India in its original geographical context. However, due to Columbus's mistake, it also came to be associated with the indigenous peoples of the Americas. This dual usage can sometimes lead to confusion in conversation and writing.
The use of the term 'Indian' has changed over time, with a growing awareness and sensitivity to its historical inaccuracy and colonial roots. Many institutions and individuals now prefer terms that more accurately represent the people to whom they refer. The shift reflects a broader movement towards recognizing and respecting indigenous cultures and identities.
