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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Badal | Badal means "cloud" in Hindi; originates from Sanskrit and Hindi. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Badri Prasad | Badri Prasad means "Lord Vishnu's offering," reflecting Indian heritage. | Indian | Boy | |
| Badri Prasada | Badri Prasada means "Lord Vishnu's blessing," reflecting Indian heritage. | Indian | Boy | |
| Badrinarayan | Badrinarayan signifies "Lord Vishnu of Badrinath," embodying spiritual significance. | Indian | Boy | |
| Badrinarayanan | Badrinarayanan: Unique Indian name meaning "one residing in Badri forest." | Indian | Boy | |
| Baghela Rajput | Baghela Rajput: traditional name symbolizing bravery and Rajput heritage. | Indian | Boy | |
| Bahadur Singh | Bahadur Singh: Indian name symbolizing bravery, strength, and honor. | Indian | Boy | |
| Bahadursingh | Bahadursingh means "brave lion," symbolizing strength and leadership. | Indian | Boy | |
| Bakul | Bakul: Sanskrit origin, meaning "flowering tree" or "fragrant blossom." | Indian, Sanskrit | Either | |
| Bala Aditya | Bala Aditya means "young sun god," reflecting Indian cultural heritage. | Indian | Boy | |
| Bala Krishnan | Bala Krishnan: traditional Indian name meaning "young Krishna," culturally significant. | Indian | Boy | |
| Balagopalan Menon | Balagopalan Menon: culturally significant Indian male name with traditional roots. | Indian | Boy | |
| Balakrishnaiyer | Balakrishnaiyer: Unique Indian name symbolizing strength and cultural heritage. | Indian | Boy | |
| Balakrishnan Menon | Balakrishnan Menon: Indian name reflecting heritage, culture, and tradition. | Indian | Boy | |
| Balappa | Balappa means "devotee of Lord Shiva," originating from Indian culture. | Indian | Boy | |
| Balbeer | Balbeer: Indian name meaning "strong and brave," primarily for males. | Indian | Boy | |
| Balu | Balu: Indian name meaning "strong," traditionally masculine, culturally significant. | Indian | Boy | |
| Balvendra | Balvendra means "strong lord," is unique, and culturally significant. | Indian | Boy | |
| Bandhvi | Bandhvi: Indian name meaning "friend," gaining popularity for its charm. | Indian | Girl | |
| Bandita | Bandita: Indian name meaning "blessed," feminine, culturally significant, unique. | Indian | Girl | |
| Bandu | Bandu: Indian name meaning "brother," associated with male companionship. | Indian | Boy | |
| Banshi | Banshi: a masculine name from India, linked to Lord Krishna. | Indian | Boy | |
| Bappi | Bappi means "little one" in Bengali; often a nickname. | Bengali, Indian | Boy | |
| Barati | Barati: Indian name meaning "groom," gaining popularity for its uniqueness. | Indian | Boy | |
| Barinda | Barinda: Unique Indian name meaning "goddess of the ocean." | Indian | Girl | |
| Barshaa | Barshaa: Indian name meaning "rain," symbolizing growth and renewal. | Indian | Girl | |
| Basanta Kumar | Basanta Kumar means "spring," reflecting joy and cultural significance. | Indian | Boy | |
| Basanta Kumar Behera | Basanta Kumar Behera signifies spring, youth, and Indian cultural heritage. | Indian | Boy | |
| Basanta Kumar Mohanty | Basanta Kumar Mohanty means "spring," symbolizing positivity and growth. | Indian | Boy | |
| Basanta Kumar Nayak | Basanta Kumar Nayak: traditional Indian name meaning "spring prince" joyfully. | 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.
