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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tejeshwari | Tejeshwari means "goddess of light," symbolizing strength and grace. | Indian | Girl | |
| Tejeshwini | Tejeshwini: Indian name meaning "radiant," symbolizing brightness and brilliance. | Indian | Girl | |
| tera | Tera means "earth" in Latin; derived from Greek "terra." | American, Biblical, Greek, Hebrew, Indian, Japanese, Persian, Sanskrit, Tamil | Female | |
| Thakur | Thakur: Indian name meaning "lord," historically linked to feudal nobility. | Indian | Boy | |
| Thakurdas | Thakurdas means "servant of the lord," popular in India. | Indian | Boy | |
| Thakurdin | Thakurdin: Indian name meaning "servant of the lord," culturally significant. | Indian | Boy | |
| Thakurram | Thakurram: Rare Indian name meaning "noble" or "lordly," unique choice. | Indian | Boy | |
| Thaman | Thaman: Unisex Indian name meaning wealth, associated with prosperity and success. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Thara | Thara means "star" in Sanskrit; it has Indian origins. | Amharic, Arabic, Indian | Girl | |
| Tharuna | Tharuna: Indian name meaning "youthful," associated with femininity and vitality. | Indian | Girl | |
| Thashni | Thashni: Unique Indian name meaning "beauty" or "charm" for girls. | Indian | Girl | |
| Thashnie | Thashnie: Unique Indian name meaning ambition; reflects cultural significance and values. | Indian | Unisex | |
| thaylia | Thaylia: Unique name, possibly derived from Greek, meaning "blooming." | Amharic, Arabic, Biblical, Greek, Hebrew, Indian, Persian | Female | |
| Thoomya | Thoomya: Unique Indian name meaning "worthy of praise," gaining popularity. | Indian | Boy | |
| Tiaura | Tiaura: Unique name, possibly derived from Tia and aura meanings. | American, Arabic, Armenian, Biblical, Cherokee, Christian, English, Indian, Latin, Native American, Persian, Spanish, Tamil, Turkish, Urdu | Female | |
| tierika | Tierika is a unique name with uncertain origins and meanings. | American, Armenian, Biblical, Greek, Hindu, Indian, Native American | Female | |
| Tiger | Tiger: a strong, powerful name symbolizing courage across cultures. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Tila | Tila: Unisex name meaning "small plant," symbolizes growth and new beginnings. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Tinku | Tinku: Indian name meaning "brave," reflecting strength and resilience. | Indian | Boy | |
| Tinya | Tinya: A diminutive form of names like Christina, meaning "follower." | American, Biblical, English, Indian, Native American | Female | |
| Tirth | Tirth: Indian name meaning "sacred place," associated with spirituality. | Indian | Boy | |
| Tirthesh | Tirthesh: Indian name meaning "lord of the pilgrimage," spiritually significant. | Indian | Boy | |
| Torana | Torana: Indian name meaning "gateway," symbolizing significant passages for girls. | Indian | Girl | |
| Toshaan | Toshaan: Indian name meaning "satisfied," gaining popularity among parents. | Indian | Boy | |
| Toshal | Toshal: Indian name meaning "satisfied," unique, culturally significant, masculine. | Indian | Boy | |
| Toshali | Toshali: Indian name meaning "fulfilled," gaining popularity for daughters. | Indian | Girl | |
| Trambak | Trambak means "three-eyed" and represents Lord Shiva in Hinduism. | Indian | Boy | |
| Tribhuvan | Tribhuvan means "ruler of three worlds" in Hindu mythology. | Indian | Boy | |
| Tridib | Tridib means "ruler of three worlds," rooted in Hindu mythology. | Indian | Boy | |
| Trinithya | Trinithya: Unique Indian name meaning "three sacred things" for girls. | 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.
