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105 Top Indian Boy Names: For Your Little Traveler

Updated
These unique Indian boy names for babies cover the mystical, modern, and everything in between.

People love the interesting look, sound, and meaning associated with Indian boy names. Indian names have a storied history of gods and goddesses, forces of nature, and personality traits. How can you figure out which kind of name will work best for the little boy you’re bringing into the world?

Dive into this rich cultural heritage with our helpful picks of interesting Indian male names. You can explore everything, from different origins and meanings to learning how to pronounce each name correctly. Read on for inspirational Indian names for boys here.


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105 Cute Indian Names for Boys

Check out these fascinating Indian male names that will suit your little boy ahead.

Aadhavan

Aadhavan is an Indian name with a very poetic, organic meaning of the “sun,” its brilliance, and even Lord Vishnu, the literal master of the universe. Aadhavan may be a thoughtful choice for your little boy to rule with.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: sun, brilliant like the sun, Lord Vishnu
  • Pronunciation: AAD-aa-van
  • Variations: Aadavan
  • Namesakes: Aadhavan is an anchor and mimicry artist who works in Adithya TV, best known for the show Konjam Nadinga Boss.
  • Popularity: In 2020, there were only 5 baby boys named Aadhavan.
Classic, Unusual

Adbhuta

Adbuta is a very uncommon name that you might only find in India. Who wouldn’t want their little boy to be named after a miracle or marvel? Your miracle boy could take the cool name Adbhuta and run with it.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Wonderful God, miraculous, marvel
  • Pronunciation: Ahd-BHU-taa
Rare, Cool

Advit

It’s truthful to say there is no one like the rarest Advit. It refers to not being like anyone or anything else. Your little one can rise up with this strong Indian Hindi name that will keep him good company.

  • Origin: HIndi
  • Meaning: Unique, exclusive, unequaled, matchless
  • Pronunciation: Uh-DUH-viht
  • Variations: Advi, Advik
  • Popularity: In 2014, only 81 people were named Advit worldwide, most notably in India, Malaysia, and Thailand.
Traditional, Unique

Ainesh

Ainesh is a mild Indian name that encapsulates all the glory of sunshine and everything your little boy represents to you. He can take this form of sunshine with him wherever he goes.

  • Origin: Hindi, Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Sun’s glory
  • Pronunciation: Aye-NEESH
Unique

Anand

Anand is somewhat popular in India, and has even made the top 2,500 in the U.S., making this also an Indian-American name to reckon with. The happy vibes of Anand can take your boy a long way in life.

  • Origin: Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Happiness, joy
  • Pronunciation: Aa-NAEND
  • Variations: Annand, Aanand, Ananda, Anando
  • Namesakes: Anand Kumar, an Indian Mathematics educator known for his Super 30 program that coaches underprivileged students for the Indian Institutes of Technology entrance exam.
  • Popularity: Anand ranked in the top 1,471 most popular names worldwide in 2014.
Formal, Popular

Aradhy

The general-neutral Aradhy is often used for boys and refers to the household god. When you want an inspirational name for the little deity in your house, Aradhy won’t let you down.

  • Origin: Sanskrit, Hindi
  • Meaning: Worshiped, to be adored
  • Pronunciation: ah-RAH-thye
  • Variations: Aradhya
  • Popularity: 26 people were named Aradhy in 2014 worldwide.
Unusual, Formal

Arit

Arit doesn’t just mean a “beloved friend,” but in the Nigerian culture, it refers to one who is born when the sun goes down. If your little friend came into being in the late afternoon, Arit might have to be your choice.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Beloved, friend
  • Pronunciation: Ahh-REET
  • Popularity: Arit has ranked within the top 700 most popular names in Nigeria but is relatively uncommon worldwide.
Informal, Unusual

Atishay

Atishay is a vintage-sounding name that speaks to everything positive for a little boy. It is rare enough that you can use the special Atishay as the top name for the little guy who brings success and light to your life.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Successful, bright, dynamic
  • Pronunciation: Aaht-TEES-hay
  • Variations: Aatish, Adheesh, Adhish, Atish
  • Popularity: Atishay isn’t really used outside of India, where it only enjoys slight popularity.
Classic, Formal

Bhadrak

Despite meaning handsome, Bhadrak also happens to be the name of a city in eastern India. The city took its name from the Goddess Bhadrakali. The divine origins of a goddess lead to a handsome little boy with a strong name.

  • Origin: Sanskrit, Hindi
  • Meaning: Handsome, good, virtuous
  • Pronunciation: BAAD-rahk
  • Variations: Bhadraka
  • Popularity: Only 31 people in India were named Bhadrak in 2014.
Strong, Rare

Bhavatu

Bhavatu is a unique name, even in India, and refers to the guy who is an outstanding athlete, or at least outstanding in some way. Your son will find his own way to be great with this rare, old-world name.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Outstanding, athletic
  • Pronunciation: Bha-VAAH-too
  • Popularity: While rare in India, Bhavatu doesn’t even show up in the name databases for the U.S.
Unique
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Bodhi

Bodhi is a famous word in Buddhism that refers to the idea of perfect wisdom. What an excellent thought to get your little boy started in life with, as well as a very cool name with a lot of history.

  • Origin: Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Awakening
  • Pronunciation: BOW-Diy
  • Variations: Bodi
  • Namesakes: Bodhi Pine Elfman (born Bodhi Pine Saboff), an American actor best known for playing Avram Hader in the Fox television series Touch.
  • Popularity: In 2020, Bodhi was the 295th most popular boys’ name.
Traditional, Cool

Chakshan

Chakshan is one of the cheekiest Indian names for boys since it’s barely used worldwide and means a boy is a “good-looking” fellow. Nicknames for Chakshan can be Chak and Chaki.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Good looking
  • Pronunciation: CHAKH-shaan
  • Popularity: In 2014, Chakshan was used only 3 times in India (and worldwide).
Classic, Unique

Chitayu

Chitayu is more of a concept than a typical Indian name, as it uses the most lovely language to convey a boy (or man) with great intellect. Your spiritually intellectual baby boy will be ready for college before you know it.

  • Origin: Hindi, Sanskrit
  • Meaning: One who is born with intellect, descended from thought
  • Pronunciation: Chiy-TAAH-uw
  • Variations: Chirayu
Formal, Rare

Daiwik

Daiwik is a rare Indian name with a very common Hindi theme referring to God’s grace. Like many others, Daiwik sounds unusual but can elevate a little boy’s name to something both beautiful and meaningful.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: By the grace of God
  • Pronunciation: DEY-whik
  • Popularity: Daiwik is a very uncommon name, which ranked as the 908th most popular name in 2016 worldwide.
Unusual

Deekshant

Not only a “gift from God,” Deekshant is more detailed in its origin where it refers to a truly educated being. When your baby boy grows up to be an educated man, he’ll love having this memorable name to himself.

  • Origin: Hindi, Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Gift of God
  • Pronunciation: DEEK-shaant
  • Variations: Dikshant, Deeshant, Dikshanth
Classic, Unique

Deepit

Deepit, while not a direct variation of the more familiar Deepok, is a lit-up “ray of hope,” while Deepok is a diminutive “little lamp” (of hope). Deepit has some usage, and will rarely be pronounced incorrectly, which is a big plus.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: The ray of hope, lighted
  • Pronunciation: DEEY-piht
  • Variations: Deepok
  • Popularity: Deepit is a somewhat popular boys’ name in India, while there are at least 200 people worldwide with the name.
Popular, Traditional

Devyan

Despite being an ancient meaning of “serving the gods,” Devyan feels as if it could be a modern name today (like Devon). Your little boy could rock the name Devyan pretty quickly should you allow him to.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Serving the gods, chariot of the gods
  • Pronunciation: Daiv-YAAHN
  • Variations: Devon, Daeven, Devain, Devan, Devayan
  • Popularity: Devyan was mildly popular in 2014 in India, the U.S., and Malaysia.
Modern, Formal

Dhavit

Dhavit might be the unofficial Indian version of David. Dhavit is more fun to say, and means you could bestow the “clean” and “shiny” meaning of this interesting Indian name to your little guy.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: White, washed, pure, clean
  • Pronunciation: DAAH-veet
  • Variations: Dabhit, Daavid, Dahrit
  • Popularity: Dhavit is a very rare name that appears mostly in Indonesia.
Unique, Classic

Dhir

Dhir is such a fun name to say that its short charm and gentle, yet wise meaning makes it a cute name for your little boy. When pronounced, Dhir sounds like saying “dear,” which has its own modern twist.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Gentle, wise
  • Pronunciation: DHEE-r
  • Variations: Dheer, Dherya, Dheera
  • Namesakes: Dhir Muri Lal, an Indian cricketer who played with Southern Punjab and Northern India.
  • Popularity: Dhir lands around the top 8,000th boys’ names list worldwide and pops up and down slightly with very rare usage in the U.S.
Informal

Doshagya

The almost unheard of Doshagya refers to someone who knows the difference between good and evil. Teach your little one the right ways of life with this super-interesting, native Indian boy’s name that few have heard today.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Wise
  • Pronunciation: Dosh-AGH-ya
Formal, Unusual
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Ehan

Ehan is the perfect name for the little boy you’re expecting since that encapsulates its meaning in the Hindu culture. In Arabic, Ehan refers to the “full moon,” so whether he comes during a sunny day or a full moon, your little Ehan will make his appearance his way.

  • Origin: Hindi, Sanskrit, Arabic
  • Meaning: Expected, full moon
  • Pronunciation: Eh-HHAAN
  • Namesakes: Ehan Bhat, an Indian model, and actor, who made his debut in the Bollywood film 99 Songs.
  • Popularity: Ehan is sometimes used more in Arabic-speaking and Muslim countries but remains only somewhat popular.
Unique, Cool

Erish

The uncommon Erish is a softer Indian name that denotes anyone beloved or cherished. Erish also refers to a built structure in the Quran, such as one that holds up vines. Erish is a cool option for the little one whom you hold dear.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: To cherish, to hold dear, beloved
  • Pronunciation: Aih-R-sh
  • Variations: Areesh
  • Popularity: In 2021, Erish ranked in the top 8,376th most popular names worldwide.
Unusual, Cool

Ganak

Ganak refers back to an ancient mathematician or any man who can calculate all the numbers into one perfect equation. Your little numbers guy could grow up to be anything he desires.

  • Origin: Hindi, Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Astrologer, mathematician, one who can calculate well
  • Pronunciation: GAH-naak
  • Variations: Ganaka
  • Popularity: At least 600 people are named Ganak worldwide, mostly on the Indian subcontinent in Islamic countries.
Classic, Unique

Gaoushik

Gaoushik is a rare name with little to no data available worldwide. This oddly stylish name packs a punch while meaning Lord Buddha. Be the first for miles to have a little boy named Gaoushik, the most magical name available.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Lord Buddha, an epithet of shiva, love, passion, an epithet of Indra
  • Pronunciation: GOW-schik
  • Variations: Koushik, Gaushik, Gaousik, Gowshik
Unusual, Rare

Hamil

In addition to the Arabic origin, Hamil can also mean a “flat-topped” hill in Old English. Hamil and Hamill are more often used as European surnames than Indian forenames, but Hamil is universal enough to successfully work for your little boy.

  • Origin: Arabic, Muslim
  • Meaning: Carrier, bearer
  • Pronunciation: HHAE-mahl
  • Variations: Hamill, Hamal
  • Namesakes: Hamil Grimes, a Barbadian sprinter, who competed in the 1976 Summer Olympics.
Formal, Unique

Hariaksh

Hariaksh is the latest in Indian male names that feels more like old-world concepts than commonly used names. Hariaksh could represent the little guy who is Lord Shiva and much more to you.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Lord Shiva
  • Pronunciation: HAAH-Diaksh
  • Variations: Harikesh, Harikishan, Harkesh, Harkishan, Haryaksh, Haryaksha
  • Popularity: In 2020, Hariaksh did not fall within the top 15,000 popular names worldwide.
Formal, Unusual

Harij

Harij is a city in Gujrat, India as well as the elusive meaning of “horizon.” Whatever is beyond your little one’s horizon, prepare him for anything with this unique name.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Horizon
  • Pronunciation: Huh-RIHJ
  • Popularity: In 2014, 336 people worldwide were named Hairj, with the most density in the United Arab Emirates.
Traditional, Unique

Harsith

Harsith feels somewhat modern and carries a very general joyous origin and meaning. Harsith might be the extra-special Indian name that you wish to bestow on your baby boy for a joyous start to life.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Joyous, cheerful, happy
  • Pronunciation: Hhaar-SIYT
  • Variations: Harsit
  • Popularity: Only 21 people were named Harsith worldwide in 2014 in India, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States.
Modern, Formal

Hiresh

Hiresh has everything that shimmers as the guy who is not only an expert at gemstones but is the king. Your Hiresh will have this very uncommon name to make all his own, along with all the world’s shiniest things.

  • Origin: Hindi, Sanskrit
  • Meaning: King of gems, king of precious stones
  • Pronunciation: HIHR-aish
  • Variations: Hareesh, Haresh, Harish, Herish
  • Namesakes: Hiresh Haridas (known by his stage name Reshmonu), a Malaysian singer-songwriter who performs primarily English songs.
  • Popularity: In 2014, 1807 people had the name Hiresh, mostly in India and Mauritius.
Classic

Hridhaan

Hridhaan is not an easy-to-pronounce name, but its meaning completely makes up for it. The noble Hridhaan is worth it whether you use it as a Desi name or anywhere in the world, having a heart that conquers all.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Heart, soul, generous and compassionate
  • Pronunciation: HREEDH-aan
  • Variations: Hrehaan, Hridaan
  • Namesakes: Hridhaan Roshan, an Indian actor famous for being the son of Hrithik Roshan’s son and grandson of actor Rakesh Roshan.
  • Popularity: Hridhaan ranked as the 5,181st most popular boys name in 2020, with only 17 baby boys named Hridhaan.
Traditional
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Hrutesh

Hrutesh is a distinctive name that connects to water and truth simultaneously. Hrutesh feels as if it is the name of a god, and will let everyone know who your little lord is before they even meet him.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Lord of truth, lord of springs
  • Pronunciation: HRUU-taish
  • Variations: Hridayesh, Hridesh, Hritesh, Hritish, Hrydayesh
  • Popularity: Only 5 people were named Hrutesh worldwide in 2014.
Classic

Idhayan

Idhayan almost seems like it is an Indian version of the ancient Abraham or Ibrahim, but it stands on its own as an extremely rare name with the simplest meaning of the joy that lives in your heart. Your little boy is sure to offer loads of joy, so give him a unique name that will honor this.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Joy of heart
  • Pronunciation: ID-haa-yaan
  • Variations: Adhyan, Adhyayan
Formal, Rare

Ikshan

Ikshan is a unique-sounding name that calls up everything you see in life. Having sight can be physical but also spiritual. Your little seer will appreciate this very uncommon Indian name.

  • Origin: Hindi, Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Sight
  • Pronunciation: IHK-shuhn
  • Variations: Ihsan, Ihsaan
  • Popularity: In 2014, 65 people were called Ikshan worldwide, with Indonesia at #1.
Informal

Ishir

Ishir not only means “powerful” and “strong,” but also connects to the idea of fire and is even associated with Agni, the Indian god of fire. This strong, fiery masculine name has loads of meanings, so have confidence in the little Ishir you bring into the world.

  • Origin: Hindi, Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Powerful, strong, active
  • Pronunciation: IHS-hihr
  • Variations: Ishi, Ishini, Ishita
  • Popularity: Ishir ranked #6,345 among popular names in 2021, with the most incidents in India.
Traditional, Strong

Jogesha

Jogesha refers back to the king of all those who practice yoga. This divinely spiritual Indian name is so incredibly rare, so you are free to bestow Jogesha on your little boy and create something new and unusual from the start.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Lord Shiva
  • Pronunciation: Jo-GEH-sha
  • Popularity: Only 27 people were named Jogesha in India in 2014.
Unusual

Kaanishk

Kaanishk is an extremely rare name, which is hard to believe since it points to the royal vehicle of the Indian lord, the preserver, and protector of the universe. You can resurrect this cool name for your little boy.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: The royal vehicle of Lord Vishnu
  • Pronunciation: KUH-nihshk
  • Variations: Kaanishik, Kanishk, Kanishka, Kanishkan, Kanishkar
Formal, Traditional

Kalagya

Kalagya is more than a name with a mixed meaning. It has barely been used anywhere in the world yet. Pick up this fascinating name where it exists and make some magic for the little one you’re expecting.

  • Origin: Hindi, Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Artist, astrologer
  • Pronunciation: Kah-LAAGH-yaa
  • Popularity: In 2014, only 7 people were named Kalagya in India (and worldwide).
Modern

Kalin

Kalin has many origins, from Hindu for “mountains,” Greek for “handsome,” and even has an old English/Gaelic meaning of “slender.” Choose your favorite Kalin and bring this easy-to-pronounce name to your boy’s life.

  • Origin: Hindi, Greek
  • Meaning: Mountains, handsome
  • Pronunciation: KEY-lihn
  • Variations: Kallin, Kellen
  • Popularity: Kalin ranked just over the top 2,000 most popular names in 2022 worldwide.
Informal

Kamal

Kamal is a cute name used for boys and girls, though it isn’t often found worldwide. Love is the most important thing around, so share some Sanskrit love with your little one when he arrives.

  • Origin: Sanskrit, Hebrew
  • Meaning: Love, ripe
  • Pronunciation: KAA-mael
  • Variations: Kamaal, Kamall, Kameal, Kameil, Kamil, Kamyl
  • Namesakes: Kamal Haasan, an Indian actor, filmmaker, director, lyricist, playback singer, choreographer, politician, and a polymath in Tamil cinema.
Cool, Traditional

Kanj

Though the associated Indian deity Lord Brahma was born in a golden egg, Kanj also means “born in water.” Whatever symbolic origin you wish to enjoy, Kanj is a cool-sounding name that is nearly impossible to find globally. You could be a pioneer!

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Lord Brahma
  • Pronunciation: KHAN-jh
  • Variations: Kanji
Cool, Modern
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Kavan

Kavan sounds Gaelic, because it connects to the Irish name Kevin. It means everything in Hindi, from “poem” to “water,” and “handsome man” in Irish. You can take your Kavan to the beach and read him an ode to how gorgeous he is, all at the same time.

  • Origin: Hindi, Irish
  • Meaning: Water, poem, handsome
  • Pronunciation: KAH-vahn
  • Variations: Kevin
  • Namesakes: Kavan Joel Smith, a Canadian actor known for playing Major Evan Lorne in Stargate Atlantis and Stargate SG-1.
  • Popularity: In 2014, Kavan was used 2,224 times in India, Iran, and Sri Lanka.
Classic, Traditional

Kavindu

Kavindu is said as it’s spelled and combines the very lofty ideas of writing poetry and the moon. A lunar poet is about as rare as Kavindu is a given name outside of Sri Lanka. Create a new lunar occupation when you name your little one Kavindu.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: The moon poet, he who sings about the moon
  • Pronunciation: Kuh-VEEN-du
  • Namesakes: Kavindu Ishan, a Sri Lankan international footballer and Midfielder for Air Force in the Sri Lanka Football Premier League. Kavindu Nadeeshan, a Sri Lankan cricketer who made his debut for the Colombo Cricket Club in the 2019–20 Premier League Tournament.
  • Popularity: Kavindu is currently ranked within the top 3,000 most popular names in Sri Lanka and in the top 500 in 2014.
Unusual, Rare

Khalin

Khalin is an easygoing Indian name meaning someone who possesses threshing floors. The deeper meaning is more poetic since the threshing floor in scripture is a place of separation and revelation, or where God’s plan for us is unmasked. All that truth is wrapped up in Khalin.

  • Origin: Hindi, Sanskrit
  • Meaning: One who possesses threshing floors
  • Pronunciation: KAH-lihn
  • Variations: Khalen, Khalon
  • Popularity: Khalin didn’t rank within the top 13,000 most popular names worldwide in 2021.
Classic, Traditional

Kunal

Kunal also has associations with everything gold or golden and the god of the universe – sounding pretty special? Some others think so, though Kunal isn’t massively popular yet.

  • Origin: Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Lotus
  • Pronunciation: Kuw-NAHL
  • Variations: Kunaal, Konal, Kunnal
  • Namesakes: Kunal Nayyar, a British-Indian actor known for portraying Rajesh Koothrappali on The Big Bang Theory. Kunal Kapoor, an Indian cricketer who plays for Karnataka.
  • Popularity: In 2014, Kunal ranked as the 7,630th most popular name worldwide, with India taking the top spot, followed by the U.S. and the UK.
Traditional, Common

Lusha

Lusha might sound like a Russian name, but it originates in Hindu culture, referring to the treasured, rare spice saffron. You can have a little boy with just as rare yet cherished a name when he becomes a Lusha.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Saffron
  • Pronunciation: LOO-shah
  • Variations: Lushaen
  • Namesakes: Lusha Kellgren, a British actress known for Never Say Die, Only Fools and Horses, and Breaking Up.
  • Popularity: Lusha has some usage in China, India and Kosovo, while just 700 people worldwide have the name.
Unique, Cool

Madhuj

Madhuj is a very cool-sounding name rarely used as a boy’s name, while the female equivalent Madhuja is more commonly used. Madhuj is a name all about honey and sweetness for your little sugar pie boy.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Made of honey
  • Pronunciation: Maad-HHUWJ
  • Variations: Madhuja
  • Popularity: Madhuj is mainly used in India, where it was only given to 11 boys in 2014.
Unusual, Formal

Mahir

Mahir is an expert or someone skilled in a particular area, both in the Hindi and Arabic cultures (even Turkish). Mahir is found worldwide, more so in Arabic countries, but wherever your little skilled guy lives, he’ll love the name Mahir.

  • Origin: Hindi, Arabic
  • Meaning: Expert, brave, industrious
  • Pronunciation: Maa-HHI-HR
  • Namesakes: Mahir Agva, a German basketball player. Mahir Sağlık, a Turkish professional footballer who plays for SC Verl.
  • Popularity: Mahir has experienced more popularity in Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Bangladesh than in India overall.
Traditional, Unique

Manayu

Manayu is an extremely rare name that doesn’t rank almost anywhere in the world. The meaning is wrapped up in the idea of devotion, desire, and all things that stir the heart and soul. Your little one will stir all kinds of love within you, so give him a name that credits him for it all.

  • Origin: Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Desirous, devoted, praying
  • Pronunciation: Ma-NAAY-oo
Unusual, Rare

Mayur

Mayur is an unusual name with a modern, cool factor when you see it and say it. It is relatively phonetic and has a lighthearted meaning. Show off all your boy’s colorful feathers with the awesome Mayur.

  • Origin: Sanskrit, Hebrew
  • Meaning: Peacock
  • Pronunciation: Maa-YUHR
  • Variations: Mayer
  • Namesakes: Mayur Verma, an Indian television actor known for playing Bunny in Jeannie Aur Juju. Mayur Puri, an Indian screenwriter, lyricist, actor, and filmmaker from Mumbai, wrote songs, screenplays, and dialogue for several movies, including Om Shanti Om.
  • Popularity: Mayur ranked as the 10,277th most popular name worldwide in 2014, with most of those occurring in India.
Unusual, Cool

Nadin

While Nadin has Hindi origins, it is also known as a Slavic name of Russian origin. In fact, the female variation Nadia is pretty well-known. Nadin rules the waters so if you have a potential ship captain on your hands, name him Nadin.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Lord or rivers, ocean
  • Pronunciation: Nah-DIHN
  • Variations: Nadia
  • Namesakes: Nadin Ercegović, a former tennis player for Yugoslavia and Croatia.
  • Popularity: Nadin is very rare worldwide, with the top usage in Egypt, Russia, and Indonesia, respectively.
Informal, Classic
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Naksh

Naksh is a one-syllable wonder occasionally found in India and a handful of other occurrences worldwide. Your little Naksh’s name could point to the grandness of the moon or the detail of a boy’s drawing.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: The moon, feature, a drawing, a sketch
  • Pronunciation: NAAHK-sch
  • Variations: Nakesh, Naksha
  • Popularity: 58 out of 68 Naksh’s worldwide are found in India.
Unusual, Informal

Neer

Neer has further origins as broad as Dutch, German, and Hebrew. Neer is super-cool and simply refers to that all-important fifth element of water. If he’s a water sign, maybe Neer is the name for your modern guy to wear.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Water
  • Pronunciation: NEE-r
  • Variations: Neeraj
  • Popularity: Neer was ranked as the 9,995th most popular name worldwide in 2021, with the most density in India and Pakistan.
Classic, Cool

Nimay

Nimay is half of anything or can simply point to the famous Lord Vishnu in Hindi culture if it feels more spiritually connected. Nimay is just cute and would suit a little boy really well, even if he is not yet a Vishnu in his life.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Half
  • Pronunciation: NEE-Maay
  • Popularity: Nimay did not make the top 13,000 most popular names in 2021.
Traditional, Unusual

Niraj

Niraj is a subtle yet engaging option among Indian boy names, referring to the classic lotus symbol or “one who is without passion or dust” in Sanskrit. The state of higher calm that doesn’t flap easily might work wonders for your little boy to stay centered.

  • Origin: Hindi, Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Lotus
  • Pronunciation: NEE-Raazh
  • Variations: Neeraj
  • Namesakes: Niraj S. Shah, an Indian-American businessman and co-founder of online retailer Wayfair. Niraj Antani, an American senator from Ohio, is currently the youngest serving member of the U.S. Senate.
  • Popularity: In 2014, Niraj was the 2,099th most popular name worldwide, ranked in the top 263 in India.
Common, Traditional

Ojasvat

If you like your names rare and unusual, Ojasvat (or the similar Ojaswat) might work out great. The name is strong in all its male forms for the powerful men who start out as little boys.

  • Origin: Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Vigorous, powerful, strong
  • Pronunciation: Oh-JUH-svaat
  • Variations: Ojaswat
  • Popularity: Ojasvat was only recorded once in India in 2014 and rarely used.
Unusual

Omkar

Omkar almost sounds like the name Oscar, but the Sanskrit meaning goes much deeper into the realm of the most sacred sound or the “sound of Om.” You can’t get more spiritual than this for the little boy you’re expecting.

  • Origin: Hindi, Sanskrit
  • Meaning: The sound of the sacred syllable, Lord Ganesha, sound of Om, divine sound
  • Pronunciation: OWM-kaar
  • Variations: Oncarr, Oncar, Onkara
  • Namesakes: Omkar Kapoor, an Indian Bollywood actor worked in films like Judwaa, Hero No.1, and Judaai. Omkar Govardhan, an Indian actor, known for Kaminey, Dokyala Shot, and Love Lagna Locha.
  • Popularity: Omkar ranked in the top 5,449th of the most popular names worldwide in 2020.
Traditional, Classic

Onir

Onir almost sounds as if it could be Scandinavian, but it is wholly Hindu with a meaning as radiant as the little boy you are looking to name. Onir is a cool name that can shine bright for you and yours.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Shining, glowing, radiant
  • Pronunciation: AH-neer
  • Namesakes: Onir, an Indian film and TV director, editor, screenwriter, and producer who was one of the first mainstream Hindi filmmakers to deal with AIDS and same-sex relationships.
  • Popularity: Onir ranked in the top 14,458th most popular names worldwide in 2020, with some popularity in Brazil.
Unique, Cool

Panna

Panna is also known as a girl’s name, so it has a universal appeal for those who want their kids to show power, wisdom, and, of course, emerald green. Panna, India, is a place known for its diamond mines, so Panna connects nicely to the gem of a child you will soon expect.

  • Origin: Sijk, Punjabi
  • Meaning: Emerald, power, wisdom
  • Pronunciation: PAE-nnaa
  • Variations: Pannah
  • Popularity: Panna was the 168,259th most popular name worldwide in 2014, making the top 1,500 in India, where it was used as a boys’ name 66% of the time.
Unusual, Traditional

Parthiv

Parthiv is an earthy choice for a boy if you want the outdoors to exist in his namesake. You won’t find many Parthiv’s around, so you can hop on this name train and enjoy the son of the earth moniker right now.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Son of the earth, brave, prince of earth, earthly
  • Pronunciation: PAHR-thihv
  • Variations: Paarthiv, Paarthivi, Parthavi, Parthivendra
  • Namesakes: Parthiv Gohil, a playback singer for Indian films including Devdas, Saawariya, Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster, and Kisaan.
  • Popularity: In the U.S., less than 5 boys were named Parthiv in 2018, while it occurred less than 1,200 times worldwide in 2014.
Classic, Unusual
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Posha

Posha does find more use as a girl’s name, although it is officially unisex. Whatever origin you prefer for your little boy, there’s no denying the beauty evident in the Sanskrit meanings that surround the idea of nurturing, thriving, and growth.

  • Origin: Sanskrit, Hindi
  • Meaning: Nourishing, nurture, thriving, growth
  • Pronunciation: PAA-shah
  • Variations: Posh
  • Popularity: Posha is extremely rare worldwide, especially as a boys’ name, but Malawi has a higher density as a girls’ name.
Modern, Unique

Poshit

Poshit is about as rare as Indian boy names get, although its meaning of “loved” and “defended” is likely more popular. Your little guy might deserve his own special name that almost no one else is currently using.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Loved, defended
  • Pronunciation: PAHW-sheet
  • Popularity: Poshit was only used 25 times worldwide in 2014, with all occurrences in India.
Formal, Rare

Prajeshvara

Prajeshvara might not even exist today and is complicated to say and a challenge on all fronts. It does refer to the prince or king who rules over his subjects, so if that appeals to you as the queen mother of your little boy, have a go with Prejeshvara!

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Lord of subjects, prince, king
  • Pronunciation: PRAH-jesh-vaara
  • Variations: Prajeśvara, Prajesvara
  • Popularity: Prajeshvara was only used a single time in India in 2014.
Traditional, Rare

Pratik

Pratik is all about origins, not just the name’s origin, but the meaning of Pratik itself. It can mean the first word in a sentence or any origin or beginning. Your little one is entering the beginning of his life, so welcome him in with open arms and an unusual, unforgettable name.

  • Origin: Sanskrit
  • Meaning: The image or symbol of God
  • Pronunciation: Prah-TIYK
  • Variations: Prateak, Prateek, Pratyk
  • Namesakes: Pratik Gandhi, an Indian actor in Gujarati theater and cinema. Pratik Sehajpal, an Indian actor, model, and fitness trainer, appeared in BiggBoss OTT.
  • Popularity: Pratik ranks as the 10,030th most popular name worldwide, most notably in India, Bangladesh, and Nepal, respectively.
Classic, Popular

Pravir

Pravir has a most noble origin that connects to every strong man role around, from a brave warrior to a chief or a king. Your little warrior will benefit from this somewhat uncommon name and make it special from the start.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Brave, king, chief, an excellent warrior
  • Pronunciation: Pruh-VEER
  • Variations: Praveer
  • Namesakes: Pravir Malik, PhD, an Indian-American author who has written 16 books related to developing a unified theory and the mathematics of organization.
  • Popularity: Pravir ranks as the 5,766th most popular name in India.
Traditional, Unusual

Punit

Punit doesn’t sound too grand, but this relatively rare name calls all things pure and holy in Hindu culture. Bless your little boy with a spirited name that is worthy of him.

  • Origin: Hindi, Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Pure, holy
  • Pronunciation: Poo-NEET
  • Variations: Pooneet, Puneet, Punith
  • Namesakes: Punit J Pathak, an Indian dancer, choreographer and actor. Punit Malhotra, an Indian film director who works in Hindi cinema.
  • Popularity: Punit ranked just under the top 10,000 most popular names worldwide in 2014, with the most usage in India, followed by Nepal.
Informal, Cool

Rahasya

Rahasya is quite flowery-sounding for a boys’ name (often used as a girls’ name), but it is quite special as it honors the mystery of being a human being. The boy you’re expecting is a mystery to you, but a beautiful one—especially with Rahasya as his name.

  • Origin: Sanskrit
  • Meaning: One who is full of mystery
  • Pronunciation: Ra-HASY-ah
  • Popularity: Rahasya is very rare worldwide, with only about 100 Rahasya globally.
Formal, Traditional

Raktim

Raktim sounds more modern and cool than a typical name. The “bright red” meaning is less weighty than many other Indian boy names but is very approachable and lively for a little boy to enjoy.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Bright red, one who has a red-colored body
  • Pronunciation: Reyk-TAHM
  • Popularity: Only 5,692 people were named Rakim worldwide in 2014, mostly in India and Bangladesh.
Classic, Cool

Ravishu

Adorable little boys who look like Cupid are begging to have a name as cute as Ravishu. While meaning “cupid,” it can denote one who is lucky in love. A Ravishu should have a fun life with love and luck on his side!

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: One who is lucky in love, a cupid
  • Pronunciation: Raah-VEESH-u
  • Variations: Ravish
  • Popularity: Ravishu is a rare name worldwide, with approximately 70 people named Rivishu in India.
Classic, Formal

Ridhaan

Ridhaan can refer to “someone with a generous heart,” as well as to someone who searches. Ridhaan sounds like it comes from many traditions, so enjoy all the feeling this interesting name brings to your little boy.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: One who searches
  • Pronunciation: REEDH-aahn
  • Variations: Hridaan
  • Popularity: Ridhaan was ranked the 2,916th most popular name worldwide in 2020.
Traditional, Unusual
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Rijul

Rijul is everything a little boy wants to be when he gets himself in trouble – an innocent man! Whether he is flawless or not, your little boy’s purity is something you believe in. The very rare Rijul will let him know how much you believe in his case.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Innocent, pure, flawless, sinless
  • Pronunciation: Riy-JUWL
  • Variations: Rijool, Rijoole, Rijoul, Rijoule, Rijule
  • Popularity: 931 people were named Rijul worldwide in 2014, 878 of which occurred in India.
Traditional, Unique

Rodas

Rodas is a unique Indian name for boys with Greek and Spanish roots. All connected to the gardening idea of roses and a rose garden. Rodas is more popular as a surname than a forename, so feel free to pick this beauty from the earth and keep it for your little boy.

  • Origin: Hindi, Greek, Spanish
  • Meaning: Rose garden, roses, where roses grow
  • Pronunciation: ROW-dahs
  • Variations: Rhodes
  • Popularity: 1,755 people were named Rodas in India in 2014 out of 3,432 people worldwide.
Modern, Unique

Rohak

Rohak is Hindu and Arabic, and has an upward definition, whether your little boy wants to rise or climb his way through life. Either way, this super rare name will adorn him well as he heads up in life.

  • Origin: Hindi, Arabic
  • Meaning: Rising, Climber
  • Pronunciation: ROW-haak
  • Popularity: In 2014, 34 out of 54 people worldwide named Rohak were in Indonesia.
Cool, Unique

Ronit

Ronit has a lot of story behind it, since it shares an origin with the Hebrew tradition (you will find the most Ronits in Israel). Both meanings center around a song or a charming gracefulness. Ronit can be used as a boys’ or girls’ name because charm is universal.

  • Origin: Hindi, Hebrew
  • Meaning: Song, chant, graceful, charming
  • Pronunciation: RAAN-iht
  • Variations: Roni
  • Namesakes: Ronit Bose Roy, an Indian actor known for his work in Hindi television and films, who earned a Filmfare Award,two Screen Awards, five ITA Awards, and six Indian Telly Awards.
  • Popularity: Ronit is a somewhat popular name worldwide, having the highest ranking of 118th in Israel in 2014.
Informal, Classic

Sahil

Sahil is a noble Indian boy’s name that also shares a similar meaning in the American Indian tradition. You would love your little boy to be a guide or leader in life, so try out this lovely name and see just how well he can do.

  • Origin: Hindi, Native American
  • Meaning: Guide, leader
  • Pronunciation: Saa-HHIHL
  • Variations: Saheal, Saheel, Saheil, Sahel, Sahiele, Sahile, Sahyle
  • Namesakes: Sahil Gupta, an Indian cricketer who plays for the Chhattisgarh team. Sahil Babayev, Minister of Labor and Social Protection of Population for the Republic of Azerbaijan.
  • Popularity: Sahil continuously ranks in the top 10,000 most popular names worldwide.
Traditional, Popular

Saket

Saket offers a sense of loftiness since it refers to the highest heavenly place around. You might think that heaven is wherever your little boy resides, so naming him properly will make perfect sense.

  • Origin: Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Heaven, a place where God resides
  • Pronunciation: Saah-KAHT
  • Variations: Saaket, Saikat, Saketa
  • Namesakes: Saket Modi, an Indian entrepreneur based in Palo Alto. Saket Elhami, an Iranian football manager who currently manages Nassaji in the Persian Gulf Pro League.
  • Popularity: There were nearly 25,000 incidences of Saket in India in 2014, but only 303 in the U.S.
Classic, Unique

Sankalp

Sankalp is a unique name referring to the determination or will to accomplish anything one sets one’s mind to. Your little boy would wear this admirable name quite well.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Determination, will
  • Pronunciation: SAAHN-kalp.
  • Variations: Sankalpa
  • Namesakes: Sankalp Acharekar, an Indian producer and production manager known for Udta Punjab, Gangs of Wasseypur, and Ugly. Sankalp Vohra, an Indian cricketer who has earned the most wickets in the 2005–06 Vijay Hazare Trophy
  • Popularity: Sankalp is ranked within the top 6,000 baby names worldwide, with the most usage in India.
Unusual, Rare

Saphal

Saphal is a special name that has been mostly tucked away, even where it originated on the Indian subcontinent. The straightforward Saphal is all about success, so pre-plan the big wins for your little boy early and watch him succeed.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Successful
  • Pronunciation: SAF-fhal
  • Variations: Safal
  • Popularity: Only 36 people worldwide were named Saphal in 2014.
Classic, Unique

Sarin

It is thought that Sarin arose from a subdivision of the Khatri community in India. In addition to its noble meanings, Sarin is also attached to the concept of having a good heart. A noble heart could make a great start for your little one.

  • Origin: Hindi, Sihk
  • Meaning: Prince, Lord, nobleman
  • Pronunciation: Sah-RIHN
  • Variations: Saryn
  • Popularity: There are currently less than 50 people named Sarin worldwide.
Common, Informal

Sayak

Sayak is quite rare, even in India. Sayak can range from referring to a weapon to being kind and helpful. Sayak even means arrow to some, so hone in on this cool and unique name for your little archer.

  • Origin: Hindi, Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Weapon, kind, helpful
  • Pronunciation: Saa-YAAK
  • Namesakes: Sayak Chakraborty, a Bengali actor who works in Bengali cinema. Sayak Shome, an Indian writer and cinematographer known for Paper Bag and The Big Shrub.
  • Popularity: Sayak ranks within the top 12,000 popular Indian male names.
Unusual, Traditional
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Sharad

Sharad is a traditional-sounding name in Hindu and Arabic cultures. The simple, whimsical meaning of the autumn season makes Sharad the ideal nature-inspired name for a little boy.

  • Origin: Hindi, Arabic
  • Meaning: Name of a season, Autumn
  • Pronunciation: Sher-AEHD
  • Variations: Sharid, Sharod, Sharyd
  • Namesakes: Sharad Govindrao Pawar, an Indian politician who has served as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra. Sharad Kelkar, an Indian actor who has appeared in Hindi films, Marathi films and television serials.
  • Popularity: In 2014, Sharad ranked within the top 5,000 most popular names worldwide, with over 200,000 people named Sharad in India.
Traditional, Classic

Sharva

Sharva has a modern feel to it, precisely because it is a unisex name referring back to the famous Hindu goddess Durga (or Parvati) who oversees the universe and fights all evil. The very rare name, especially for boys, can be a great choice for you and the newborn you’re expecting.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Goddess Durga/Goddess Parvati
  • Pronunciation: SHaaR-Vah
  • Variations: Sharvah
  • Popularity: Only 200 people worldwide are named Sharva, with most Sharvas being girls.
Modern, Unusual

Shivansh

Shivansh is not an easy name but is quite exotic even to the Hindu culture. Shivansh refers to the Lord Shiva, also called the auspicious one in Sanskrit. The name denotes something like a favorite or one who will succeed. Your little boy can take this name and use it well towards that end.

  • Origin: Hindi, Sanskrit
  • Meaning: A part of Lord Shiva
  • Pronunciation: Shih-VAHNSH
  • Namesakes: Shivansh Kotia, an Indian film and television actor known for Star Plus’ most popular longest-running daily show Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai.
  • Popularity: Shivansh appeared on the U.S. charts for the first time in 2012 at 4,250, with less than 1,500 people named Shivansh worldwide.
Traditional, Rare

Shoumik

Shoumik is a unique name and is typically used more in Bangladesh than in India (and even less in the U.S.). Shoumik originally meant the “gift of god,” but can refer to a powerful person on fire. Your little boy will appreciate the strength of this fine Indian name.

  • Origin: Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Gift of god, fire, powerful
  • Pronunciation: SHOU-mik
  • Variations: Shoumikan
  • Popularity: Shoumik was last seen in the U.S. in 2010 and had the highest (3,483) occurrences in Bangladesh in 2014.
Formal, Classic

Shravas

Shravas means “fame” and “glory,” but originally, it refers to a Jain ascetic, who are traditionally detached from the world and its activities. Their focus in life is self-realization. What a noble idea to give to your little boy, which might very well make him famous one day.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Praise, glory, fame
  • Pronunciation: SCHRAAH-vaas
  • Variations: Sravas, Shravs
  • Popularity: Only 5 people were named Schravas worldwide in 2014.
Unusual, Rare

Shrutin

Shrutin is an extremely rare name with little to no data on its usage. The elusive meaning of “one who has heard” makes the name interesting, though it is used even less than the female equivalent, Shruti. Everyone will hear your Shrutin when he comes of age.

  • Origin: Sanskrit
  • Meaning: One who has heard
  • Pronunciation: SHREW-teen
  • Variations: Shrot, Shroti, Shrut
Unusual, Unique

Shwetan

Shwetan is the purest name that barely registers worldwide as a given name. Shweta, the female equivalent, is more common than Shwetan. If you’re looking for a name unlike any other (at all), select Shwetan for your little one.

  • Origin: Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Dawn, pure
  • Pronunciation: SCHWAI-taan
  • Variations: Swetan, Sweth, Shwethan
  • Popularity: Only 20 people worldwide were named Shwetan in 2014, 100% of which were in India.
Formal, Rare

Siddha

Siddha is a diminutive of the name Siddhartha, which is famous in Indian lore. Siddhartha was known as the founder of Buddhism as we know it today. It makes sense that Siddha denotes perfection on earth—just like your little Buddha.

  • Origin: HIndi, Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Perfected, accomplished, Lord Shiva
  • Pronunciation: SIDDH-huw
  • Variations: Saied, Sayyed, Sa’d, Saad, Siddh
  • Popularity: Siddha is currently ranked as the 11,933th most popular name in India.
Traditional, Classic

Sudyut

Sudyut is an extremely rare name with only one occurrence worldwide (in India) in 2014. Sudyut is an old-world word that captures the moment one shines beautifully in life. Your little boy can shine too when he is called Sudyut.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Shining beautifully
  • Pronunciation: SUUD-yut
  • Variations: Sudyot, Sudyum
Unique, Classic

Sujal

Sujal is an easy name to pronounce and has an ancient meaning surrounding the symbols of a water lotus and affectionate traits. This flowing feeling to Sujal might add a little something sacred to his life.

  • Origin: Jain, Hindi
  • Meaning: Affectionate, sacred water, lotus
  • Pronunciation: SOO-juhl
  • Namesakes: Sujal Shrestha, a Nepalese footballer who plays midfielder for Manang Marshyangdi in the Nepal National League. Sujal Parikh, an American global health advocate, University of Michigan medical student, and an NIH-Fogarty Clinical Research Scholar.
  • Popularity: 10,357 people worldwide were named Sujal in 2014, most of which were in India and Nepal.
Traditional, Unique
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Suresh

Is your little boy ready for a super popular name that calls out the “lord of the gods?” He better be because Suresh also goes back to the god Indra, who is (of course) the king of the gods. Suresh is a strong name for a strong little boy to wear on his sleeve.

  • Origin: Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Lord of the gods
  • Pronunciation: Suw-REESH
  • Variations: Suresha
  • Namesakes: Suresh Joshi, an Indian poet, writer, and literary critic. Suresh Kumar, an Indian-American Director-General of the U.S. Foreign Commercial Service.
  • Popularity: Suresh was the 189th most common name in 2014.
Traditional, Popular

Svojas

Svojas refers back to the impressive elephant-headed Hindu god of beginnings, Lord Ganesh. If your little boy wants to be as strong and powerful as this Hindu lord, Svojas is an awesome name to give to him.

  • Origin: Sanskrit
  • Meaning: He who is strong and powerful
  • Pronunciation: SVOH-jaas
  • Popularity: Svojas was ranked the 8,948th most popular name worldwide in 2020.
Traditional, Unusual

Tarakshya

Tarakshya is the rarest of names that arose out of Hindi myth, which might explain a creature turning from a horse into a snake, a bird, and more. The elusive myth also associates Tarakshya with gold, so “mythify” the life of your little boy with Tarakshya.

  • Origin: Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Gold, bird, horse, snake
  • Pronunciation: TAAH-raak-shyah
  • Variations: Tarkshya
  • Popularity: Just 7 people were named Tarakshya worldwide in 2014, all of which occurred in India.
Traditional, Unusual

Taral

Taral is an unusual name that works for boys and girls (and is used more for girls overall). Taral means “honeybee,” which is just a little adorable for use as a baby’s name, but rest assured – Taral also points to all things brilliant, shiny, and splendid.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Honeybee, brilliant, shining, splendid
  • Pronunciation: TER-ael
  • Variations: Tarall, Taralle
  • Namesakes: Wayne MacDonald (known by his pen name Taral Wayne), a Canadian science fiction fan artist nominated for the Hugo Award for Best Fan Artist eleven times
  • Popularity: Taral has experienced usage in India, but is a less common name in the U.S. At least 2,000 people worldwide are currently named Taral.
Informal, Cool

Tatpar

Tatpar is a most unusual name, with almost no occurrences outside of India. Tatpar sounds like it could come from several countries, and its meaning is universal. Doing anything deeply or all the way is Tatpar, so choose it if you want your little guy to hold a name that commits him to everything.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Deeply
  • Pronunciation: TAHT-paare
  • Variations: Tatpara
  • Popularity: Only 12 people worldwide were named Tatpar in 2014, all of whom were in India.
Unusual, Classic

Tavish

Both the Hindu and Aramaic origins of Tavish mean “heaven.” Tavish then spread into Irish, Gaelic, French, German, and Scandinavian cultures. Grab this incredibly powerful name while you can and give it to your little Tavish today.

  • Origin: Hindi, Aramaic
  • Meaning: Heaven
  • Pronunciation: Taa-VIHSH
  • Variations: Thomas, Tàmhas, Tòmas
  • Namesakes: Tavish Hamilton Scott, a former Scottish politician who was the Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP) from 1999 to 2019 and Leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats from 2008 to 2011. Tavish Crowe, a Canadian guitarist for singer Carly Rae Jepsen
  • Popularity: Tavish ranked in the top 2,190 most popular names in 2022.
Traditional, Common

Tejasvat

The extremely rare Tejasvat has more meanings than it typically does people with the name. The gorgeous meaning of Tejasvat represents all things splendid and beautiful. Your Tejasvat would be one in a million, but still just as glorious.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Splendid, bright, glorious, beautiful
  • Pronunciation: TEH-jas-vaat
  • Variations: Tejasvi
  • Popularity: Only 3 people in 2014 worldwide were named Tejasvat, all of whom were in India.
Unusual, Rare

Ujesh

Ujesh has a classic Hindu definition of anyone who gives or bestows light. This powerful concept makes Ujesh sound a bit like the name of a Hindu deity. Whether a god or not, your little light-bearer will love the unique Ujesh.

  • Origin: Nepali, Sanskrit
  • Meaning: One who gives light, one who bestows light
  • Pronunciation: UUJ-aish
  • Variations: Ujesha
  • Namesakes: Ujesh Ranchod, a Zimbabwean former cricketer who played in three One Day International (ODI) matches from 1992 to 1993.
  • Popularity: Ujesh is currently ranked as the 35,947th most popular name in India.
Classic, Unusual

Vasudev

Vasudev is a somewhat common name outside of the U.S., especially in and around India. The substantial, classical meaning of the father of Lord Krisha comes across as the god of wealth. Bring some luck and fortune to your little boy when you call him Vasudev.

  • Origin: Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Lord Krishna’s father, the god of wealth
  • Pronunciation: VAA-suw-dehv
  • Variations: Vasudeva
  • Namesakes: Vasudev Balwant Phadke (also known as the Father Of Indian Armed Rebellion), an Indian independence activist and revolutionary who sought India’s independence from colonial rule.
  • Popularity: Vasudev is ranked the 13,914th most popular name in the U.S. in 2020, while in India, Vasudev ranks approximately 1,000th.
Traditional, Common

Vedhas

Vedhas sounds like the name of an ancient Hindi deity, but it sums up the idea of knowledge. Give the smart feel to your little boy with this handsome and relatively rare name.

  • Origin: Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Knowledge
  • Pronunciation: VAAY-dhah
  • Variations: Vedha, Vedas
  • Popularity: Only 26 people were named Vedhas worldwide in 2014, with 21 occurring in India.
Traditional, Unusual
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Vidyut

Vidyut’s mild popularity is rising but still quite uncommon globally. The Hindu word points to everything electrical in life: electricity, lightning, brilliant light bulbs, etc. Kick up all the sparks for your little boy with some Vidyut for his life.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Electricity, power, brilliant, lightening
  • Pronunciation: VID-yeut
  • Variations: Vidyot
  • Namesakes: Vidyut Dev Singh Jammwal, an Indian actor, martial artist, stuntman, and action choreographer who works in Hindi films. Vidyut Sivaramakrishnan, an Indian cricketer who played for Tamil Nadu in the Ranji Trophy.
  • Popularity: Vidyut was ranked within the top 3,000 most popular names worldwide in 2021.
Unusual, Rare

Viraaj

Viraaj is a unique spelling of Viraj, which is a more common version. Viraaj encapsulates all that is splendorous. Capture the magic of this pretty rare name for your little ball of splendor.

  • Origin: Sanskrit, Hindi
  • Meaning: Splendor
  • Pronunciation: VIHR-aaj
  • Variations: Viraj
  • Popularity: Viraaj is the 20,051st most popular name worldwide, with the highest occurrence in 2016 of 61 boys in the U.S. named Viraaj.
Traditional, Unique

Viyon

Viyon is a trendy-sounding name that simply means sky. The elemental Hindi name has found some popularity in Nigeria but is still relatively rare worldwide. Viyon (and your little boy) can live as large as the whole sky above his head.

  • Origin: Hindi
  • Meaning: Sky
  • Pronunciation: VEE-yahn
  • Popularity: Viyon is more popular in Nigeria than anywhere else in the world.
Unusual, Cool

Yajvan

Yajvan is not the easiest of Indian boy names to say, but it packs a wallop of meaning behind it. Yajvan uses old-world ideas of worshiping, bestowing, and offering, easily associated with Hindu gods. Get super unique (and likely be the only one to do so) with Yajvan for your little deity.

  • Origin: Sanskrit, Hindi
  • Meaning: Worshiped, bestowed, offer
  • Pronunciation: YAYJH-vaan
  • Variations: Yajwan
  • Popularity: Only one person was named Yajvan worldwide in 2014, which occurred in the United Arab Emirates.
Unusual, Formal

Yuvraj

Yuvraj is a somewhat common name, but occurs mostly in and around India. Yuvraj has the coolest meaning of denoting the son of a king, otherwise known as a “young prince.” You can create your very own fairytale for your little prince by giving him the name Yuvraj.

  • Origin: Sanskrit
  • Meaning: Son of the king, young prince
  • Pronunciation: YUW-vraaayj
  • Variations: Yuvaraja
  • Namesakes: Yuvraj Singh, an Indian politician and a MLA from Hamirpur constituency from Uttar Pradesh. Yuvraj Walmiki, an Indian field hockey player from Maharashtra known as the Prince of Indian hockey.
  • Popularity: 85,097 people worldwide received the name Yuvraj in 2014 and were primarily located in India.
Traditional, Common
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About the Author

Maryana Vestic

Maryana Vestic is a Brooklyn-based writer, editor, and food photographer with a background in entertainment Business Affairs. She studied film at NYU, Irish Theatre Studies at Trinity College Dublin, and has an MFA in Creative Writing Nonfiction from The New School. She loves cooking, baking, hiking, and horror films, as well as running a local baking business in Brooklyn with her boyfriend.
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