Choosing a name for a child is one of the most significant responsibilities a parent undertakes. In the Indian tradition, a name is not merely a label; it is a Samskara (a rite of passage). Sanskrit, known as Devavani or the “Language of the Gods,” offers a treasure trove of names that are phonetically beautiful, structurally robust, and spiritually profound. Each name carries a vibration, an “eternal echo” that is believed to influence the child’s character and destiny.

This guide provides a curated selection of Sanskrit names for boys and girls, spanning the entire alphabet, to help you find a name that resonates with heritage and timeless grace.

The Philosophy of Sanskrit Naming

In Sanskrit, every word is derived from a Dhatu (root). For instance, the root ‘Vid’ (to know) gives us names like Vidya (knowledge) or Vivek (discrimination). When you choose a Sanskrit name, you are essentially bestowing a specific quality or virtue upon your child.

Names for Baby Boys (A-Z)

A – Advait: Meaning “Unique” or “Non-dual.” It represents the philosophical concept of Oneness, where there is no division between the individual and the divine.

B – Bhadra: Meaning “Auspicious,” “Gentle,” or “Fortunate.” It is a name that invokes protection and goodness.

C – Chinmay: Derived from Chit (consciousness), it means “Full of knowledge” or “Pure consciousness.”

D – Daksh: Meaning “Capable,” “Adroit,” or “Skillful.” In mythology, Daksh was a creator and a son of Lord Brahma.

E – Eklavya: Famous for his devotion to his Guru, this name symbolizes “Focus,” “Determination,” and “Self-learning.”

F – Falgun: Named after the month of Phalguna in the Hindu calendar, often associated with the arrival of spring and vibrancy.

G – Gaurav: A powerful name meaning “Honor,” “Pride,” or “Dignity.”

H – Hriday: Meaning “The Heart.” It represents the emotional and spiritual core of a person.

I – Ishan: A name for Lord Shiva, meaning “The Ruler” or “The Master.” It also represents the North-East direction, considered highly auspicious.

J – Jatin: Meaning “The Auspicious One” or “One with matted hair,” often used as an epithet for Lord Shiva.

K – Kavir: Meaning “Poet” or “Wise man.” It is a modern derivative of the ancient term for an inspired seer.

L – Laksh: Meaning “Aim,” “Target,” or “Goal.” It encourages a life of purpose.

M – Madhav: A popular name for Lord Krishna, meaning “Sweet like honey” or “The Lord of Knowledge.”

N – Nakul: Meaning “The handsomest in the lineage.” He was one of the five Pandava brothers, known for his grace.

O – Ojas: A unique name meaning “Vitality,” “Strength,” or “Spiritual energy.”

P – Parth: Another name for Arjuna, given by Kunti. It means “The son of Pritha (the earth).”

Q – Qasid: Though rare in Sanskrit (often appearing in Persian influence), the closest Sanskrit phonetic equivalent is Kushid, meaning “Happy” or “Joyous.”

R – Rishabh: Meaning “Superior” or “Excellent.” In music, it is the second note of the scale (Re).

S – Shlok: Meaning “Hymn” or “Verse.” It represents the sound of prayer and the structure of wisdom.

T – Tushar: A cool, refreshing name meaning “Snow,” “Mist,” or “Dew drops.”

U – Utkarsh: Meaning “Prosperity,” “Advancement,” or “Excellence.”

V – Vedant: Meaning “The end of the Vedas” or “Ultimate wisdom.” It represents a deep philosophical understanding.

W – Wriddhesh: A derivative of Riddhesh, meaning “Lord of Prosperity” or “The One who increases wealth.”

X – Kshatish: (Phonetically ‘X’) Meaning “Lord of the Earth” or “King.”

Y – Yuvan: Meaning “Youthful” or “Strong.” It represents the energy of life.

Z – Zitish: (Modern adaptation) Meaning “Luminous” or “Shinning Bright.”

Names for Baby Girls (A-Z)

A – Aditi: Meaning “Boundless” or “Infinite.” She is the mother of the gods in Vedic literature, representing the vast sky.

B – Bani: Meaning “Speech” or “Goddess Saraswati.” It represents the power of communication and wisdom.

C – Charvi: A beautiful name meaning “A lovely lady” or “Beautiful.”

D – Drishti: Meaning “Vision,” “Sight,” or “Gaze.” It represents clarity and perspective.

E – Eshani: A name for Goddess Parvati, meaning “Desire” or “Close to God.”

F – Fulki: Meaning “Spark” or “Luminous.” It represents the small light that brings great joy.

G – Gauri: Meaning “Fair” or “Brilliant.” It is one of the most popular names for Goddess Parvati.

H – Hamsini: Meaning “One who rides a swan,” a beautiful epithet for Goddess Saraswati, the patron of arts.

I – Idika: Meaning “The Earth.” It represents grounding and the source of all life.

J – Jhiya: Meaning “Light of the heart” or “Splendor.”

K – Kavya: Meaning “Poetry” or “A literary work.” It represents creative expression.

L – Lavanya: Meaning “Grace,” “Beauty,” or “Lustre.”

M – Myra: Meaning “Beloved” or “An extraordinary girl.” (While common globally, it finds roots in the Sanskrit Mira, meaning ‘prosperous’ or ‘sea’).

N – Nitya: Meaning “Eternal” or “Constant.” It represents that which never changes.

O – Ojasvi: The feminine form of Ojas, meaning “Radiant,” “Bright,” or “Energetic.”

P – Prisha: Meaning “Beloved,” “God’s gift,” or “Talent.”

Q – Quinita: (Phonetic adaptation) In Sanskrit, the equivalent Kshoni means “Earth” or “Protector.”

R – Radhika: Meaning “Successful” or “Prosperous.” She is the eternal consort of Lord Krishna.

S – Saanvi: A modern name for Goddess Lakshmi, meaning “One who will be followed” or “Luminous.”

T – Trisha: Meaning “Thirst” or “Desire.” It represents the aspiration to achieve something great.

U – Urvi: A powerful, short name meaning “The Earth.”

V – Vanya: Meaning “Gracious gift of God” or “Goddess of the Forest.”

W – Wrisha: Derived from Risha, meaning “Saintly” or “A sacred woman.”

X – Kshipra: Meaning “Fast” or “Quick.” It is also the name of a holy river in India.

Y – Yashvi: Meaning “Fame,” “Glory,” or “Success.”

Z – Zalak: Meaning “Instant appearance” or “Glance.”

Tips for Modern Parents Choosing Sanskrit Names

While the meanings are vital, the practical application of the name in the modern world is equally important:

1. Pronunciation: Ensure the name is easy to pronounce for teachers and peers, especially if you live in a multicultural environment.
2. Length: Short names (2-3 syllables like Arin or Ira) are trending because they are easy to remember and write.
3. Meaning Check: Some Sanskrit words have multiple meanings depending on the context. Always verify the root (Dhatu) to ensure the virtue you want to bestow is accurate.
4. Initials: Check how the initials look together to avoid any accidental awkwardness.

Conclusion

A Sanskrit name is a bridge between the glorious past and a promising future. Whether you choose a traditional name like Madhav or a contemporary one like Saanvi, you are giving your child a piece of linguistic art that has survived for millennia. May the name you choose bring your child wisdom, prosperity, and a lifelong connection to their roots.