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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shanthi | Shanthi means "peace" in Sanskrit; popular name for girls. | Indian | Girl | |
| Shanthraj | Shanthraj means "peaceful king," reflecting tranquility and leadership qualities. | Indian | Boy | |
| Shanthu | Shanthu: Indian name meaning "peaceful," associated with males, unique. | Indian | Boy | |
| Shanthulal | Shanthulal: Indian name meaning "peaceful and gentle," traditionally significant. | Indian | Boy | |
| Shantimay | Shantimay means "full of peace," reflecting harmony and tranquility. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Sharad Chand | Sharad Chand means autumn moon, symbolizing strength and wisdom. | Indian | Boy | |
| Sharad Chandra | Sharad Chandra means "autumn moon," reflecting Indian cultural significance. | Indian | Boy | |
| Sharada | Sharada means "goddess of learning," symbolizing intelligence and creativity. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Sharadchandra | Sharadchandra means "autumn moon," symbolizing beauty and renewal. | Indian | Boy | |
| Sharadchandrakar | Sharadchandrakar symbolizes autumn moon, reflecting Indian cultural heritage beautifully. | Indian | Boy | |
| Sharadindu | Sharadindu means "moon of autumn," reflecting Indian cultural significance. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Sharama | Sharama: Uncommon Indian name meaning "shelter" or "protection" unisex. | Indian, Sanskrit | Unisex | |
| Sharani | Sharani: Indian name meaning "divine," associated with grace and spirituality. | Indian | Girl | |
| Sharann | Sharann: Indian name meaning "shelter," associated with female protection. | Indian | Girl | |
| Sharanyashree | Sharanyashree means "shelter and protection," reflecting care and support. | Indian | Girl | |
| Shararat | Shararat: Unique Indian name meaning "mischief," associated with playful behavior. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Sharat | Sharat: Indian name meaning "autumn," symbolizing nature's beauty and heritage. | Indian | Boy | |
| Sharath | Sharath: Indian name meaning "new," popular among culturally rich families. | Indian | Boy | |
| Sharda | Sharda means "goddess of learning," originating from Sanskrit literature. | Hindu, Indian, Sanskrit | Girl | |
| sharde | Sharde: A modern name, possibly derived from "Sharon" or "shared." | American, Arabic, Biblical, English, Indian, Islamic, Persian, Spanish | Either | |
| sharmaine | Sharmaine means "joyful" and originates from French and English roots. | American, Arabic, Armenian, English, Indian | Female | |
| Sharmil | Sharmil: Charming Indian name, gaining popularity, unique and elegant choice. | Indian | Boy | |
| Sharmila | Sharmila: Indian name meaning "bliss," popular among Hindu families. | Indian | Girl | |
| Sharmilla | Sharmilla: Indian name meaning "modest," elegant, and culturally significant. | Indian | Girl | |
| Sharvan | Sharvan: Indian name meaning "a month," unique and culturally significant. | Indian | Boy | |
| shary | Shary: A variant of Shari, meaning "beloved" or "darling." | American, Arabic, Armenian, Biblical, English, Hebrew, Indian, Irish, Latin, Persian, Spanish | Female | |
| Sharyu | Sharyu: a unique, gender-neutral name meaning "divine flame" in India. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Shashi | Shashi: Unisex Indian name meaning "moon," symbolizing beauty and grace. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Shashi Kiran | Shashi Kiran means "moon ray," symbolizing brightness and positivity. | Indian | Boy | |
| Shashi Shekar | Shashi Shekar: Indian name meaning "moon" and "lord," unique charm. | Indian | Boy |
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.
