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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kushal | Kushal means "clever" in Sanskrit; popular Indian name for boys. | Indian | Boy | |
| Kushboo | Kushboo means "fragrance," is unisex, and has rich cultural significance. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Kushbu | Kushbu: Indian name meaning "fragrance," associated with femininity and elegance. | Indian | Girl | |
| Kushendra | Kushendra: Indian name meaning "sacred grass" and "king of gods." | Indian | Boy | |
| Kushil | Kushil: Indian name meaning "happy," gaining popularity for boys. | Indian | Boy | |
| Kushin | Kushin: Indian name meaning "sacred grass," unique and meaningful choice. | Indian | Boy | |
| Kushpal | Kushpal means "protector of happiness," gaining popularity among parents. | Indian | Boy | |
| Kusum | Kusum is a meaningful unisex Indian name meaning "flower" or "blossom." | Indian | Unisex | |
| Kusum Lata | Kusum Lata means "blooming flower," symbolizing grace and beauty. | Indian | Girl | |
| Kusuma | Kusuma: Sanskrit name meaning "flower," symbolizing beauty and grace. | Indian | Girl | |
| Kusumapriya | Kusumapriya means "beloved of flowers," reflecting elegance and beauty. | Indian | Girl | |
| Kusumavathi | Kusumavathi means "adorned with flowers," reflecting Indian cultural heritage. | Indian | Girl | |
| Kusumavathy | Kusumavathy means "full of blossoms," symbolizing beauty and grace. | Indian | Girl | |
| Kuval | Kuval: Unisex Indian name meaning "lotus flower," symbolizing purity and rebirth. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Laasya | Laasya means "graceful dance," rooted in Hindu mythology and culture. | Hindu, Indian | Girl | |
| Lachman | Lachman, an Indian name, means "fortunate" and symbolizes loyalty. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Lagan | English, Indian, Irish, Native American | |||
| Laj | Laj: A name of Arabic origin meaning "delight" or "joy." | Indian | Unisex | |
| Lajjawati | Lajjawati means "modest" in Sanskrit; symbolizes purity and grace. | Indian | Girl | |
| Lakesh | Lakesh: Indian name meaning "Lord of the world," male association. | Indian | Boy | |
| Laksha | Laksha: Unisex Indian name meaning "large number" or "goal." | Indian | Unisex | |
| Lakshmi Gopal | Lakshmi Gopal symbolizes wealth, prosperity, and divine blessings in India. | Indian | Girl | |
| Lakshmi Gopalan | Lakshmi Gopalan symbolizes wealth, protection, and cultural significance in India. | Indian | Girl | |
| Lakshmi Kant | Lakshmi Kant: Indian name meaning "Lord Vishnu," symbolizing wealth and love. | Indian | Boy | |
| Lakshmi Priya | Lakshmi Priya signifies wealth, love, and cultural significance in India. | Indian | Girl | |
| Lakshmi Shreeya | Lakshmi Shreeya symbolizes wealth, fortune, and auspiciousness in Hindu culture. | Indian | Girl | |
| Lakshmi Shri | Lakshmi Shri signifies wealth, prosperity, and divine blessings in Hinduism. | Indian | Girl | |
| Lakshmi Sri | Lakshmi Sri signifies wealth, prosperity; popular female name in India. | Indian | Girl | |
| Lakshmi Vilas Bank | Lakshmi Vilas Bank symbolizes wealth, grace, and cultural significance in India. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Lakshmikant | Lakshmikant means "beloved by wealth," popular in Indian culture. | 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.
