Indian Names

Almost unknown in the western world, Gyan comes from a Sanskrit word for knowledge. It may appeal to parents looking for a name influenced by eastern philosophy, like Bodhi or Zen.

Extremely meaningful in the Buddhist culture, where a lotus symbolizes the victory of the spirit over the senses.

To most Americans, Jena would be a sleeker spelling of Jenna, pronounced JEHN-a. But it can also be pronounced JEEN-a or, as the Arabic Jena, more like JAY-na. Actress Jena Malone says it the first way, but however you pronounce it, it's a perfectly pleasant if somewhat confusing name.

Literary Indian choice, best known here via acclaimed writer Ved Mehta, who lost his sight at the age of four.

This name derives from the name Varuna, who in the Hindi faith was the god of water. Varun is, therefore, somewhat analogous to Neptune or Poseidon.

The name of the elephant-headed Hindu god of wisdom is rarely heard outside India.

Evokes picture-postcard image of colorful Indonesia. Bali Barret is a Paris fashion insider who oversees women's style for Hermes. Bali rhymes with tally or galley.

A popular name in India, several famous Indian women carry this sweet sounding name.

Hip-swayingly evocative.

Could be used in an Indian family for a garden-lover's son.

If there are too many Savannahs in your neighborhood, you might consider this. Pavana is a Hindu goddess of the wind.

Wise, with vivacity.

An international take on Dara.

This Indian name with a Slavic sound definitely has potential.

Might translate, thanks to Darren connection.

Panna is a name with many allusions — in addition to those above, a serene and sacred city in India and the Italian word for cream. Panna might make a fresh alternative to Anna or Hannah.

Lots of charm.

Surname of a noted modern Urdu poet.

An attractive and worldly name for a cherished baby son.