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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manek | Manek means "gem" in Sanskrit; originates from Indian culture. | Arabic, Indian, Persian | Unisex | |
| Maneka | Maneka: Indian name meaning benevolent, kind-hearted; culturally significant and unique. | Indian | Girl | |
| Mangal | Mangal: unisex Indian name meaning "auspicious," linked to Mars. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Mangeshkumar | Mangeshkumar: Indian name meaning "Lord Shiva," reflecting cultural heritage. | Indian | Boy | |
| Mani Shankar | Mani Shankar: Indian name meaning jewel, associated with Lord Shiva. | Indian | Boy | |
| Mani Shanker | Mani Shanker: Indian name meaning "jewel," symbolizing uniqueness and value. | Indian | Boy | |
| Manickya | Manickya means "precious gem" in Tamil; culturally significant name. | Indian | Boy | |
| Manika | Amharic, Arabic, Indian | |||
| Manindraprasad | Manindraprasad: Unique Indian name meaning "king of jewels," culturally significant. | Indian | Boy | |
| Manindrasen | Manindrasen: Indian name meaning "king of the mind," culturally significant. | Indian | Boy | |
| Manish | Manish: Indian name meaning "lord of the mind," symbolizing leadership. | Indian | Boy | |
| Manishah | Manishah: Indian name meaning "queen," unique, feminine, culturally significant. | Indian | Girl | |
| Manishi | Manishi: Unique Indian name meaning "intelligent" or "wise" in Sanskrit. | Indian | Boy | |
| Manishika | Manishika: Unique Indian name meaning "intelligent" or "wise" for females. | Indian | Girl | |
| Manishwar | Manishwar: Indian name meaning "lord of the mind," culturally significant. | Indian | Boy | |
| Manishya | Manishya: Unisex name from India meaning "human" or "mankind." | Indian | Unisex | |
| Manita | Manita: Indian name meaning "praised," elegant, unique, and meaningful choice. | Indian | Girl | |
| Manjapriya | Manjapriya: Unique Indian name meaning "beloved of the mind." | Indian | Girl | |
| Manjeera | Manjeera: Indian name meaning "melodious sound," gaining popularity for daughters. | Indian | Girl | |
| Manjeet | Manjeet: Unisex Indian name meaning "one who conquers the mind." | Indian | Unisex | |
| Manjeeta | Manjeeta: Indian name meaning "victorious," gaining popularity for girls. | Indian | Girl | |
| Manjera | Manjera: Indian name meaning "melodious sound," gaining popularity for girls. | Indian | Girl | |
| Manjira | Manjira means "anklet"; symbolizes music, dance, and Hindu mythology. | Indian | Unisex | |
| Manjit | Manjit: Unisex Indian name meaning "conqueror of the mind." | Indian | Unisex | |
| Manjita | Manjita: Indian name meaning "honored," associated with femininity and respect. | Indian | Girl | |
| Manju Bala | Manju Bala: Indian name meaning "pleasant young girl," culturally significant. | Indian | Girl | |
| Manju Balaa | Manju Balaa: Charming, powerful name with Indian cultural significance for girls. | Indian | Girl | |
| Manjuli | Manjuli: Sanskrit name meaning "beautiful flower," gaining cultural recognition. | Indian | Girl | |
| Manjulika | Manjulika: Charming Indian name for girls, symbolizing beauty and grace. | Indian | Girl | |
| Manjushaa | Manjushaa: Indian name meaning "charming," with feminine cultural significance. | 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.
