Indian Boy Names

Choosing a special name for a newborn boy can be a meaningful journey.

Exploring names from the rich history of India offers a treasure trove of options.

With a variety of languages and deep-rooted traditions, Indian names are unique and significant.

Whether you have Indian heritage or simply desire a distinctive name, these popular, modern, cool, unique, and cute Indian boy names will set any child apart.

Selecting Indian Names for Boys

Sunil

Sunil is a popular choice among Indian names for boys.

It combines the prefix “Su” with “nil” to create a name that means “dark blue” or “deep.” This name is particularly common in regions where Hindu astrology is consulted for naming purposes.

Suraj

Suraj, which means “sun” in Hindi, is another name derived from the prefix “Su.”

This name reflects the vibrant and warm qualities of the sun, making it a strong and uplifting choice.

Surendra

Surendra translates to “lord of the gods” and is a combination of the words “Sur” (god) and “Indra” (a deity in Hindu mythology).

This name conveys a sense of power and divine authority.

Surya

Surya is a name that denotes the sun god in Hindu mythology.

It symbolizes strength, energy, and vitality. This name is commonly used in many parts of India and holds significant cultural and religious importance.

Rahul

Rahul is a versatile name found in various regions of India.

It means “efficient” or “conqueror of all miseries.” It is often associated with Prince Rahul, the son of Buddha, making it a name with rich historical significance.

Amit

Amit means “infinite” or “boundless.”

This name is often chosen to signify the vast potential and limitless possibilities for the child. Amit is a widely recognized name across India.

Arjun

Arjun is a heroic name from the Hindu epic Mahabharata.

It means “bright” or “shining.” This name evokes qualities of bravery and clarity.

Raj

Raj means “king” or “ruler.”

This concise and powerful name suggests leadership and authority. It is a popular name in both northern and southern regions of India.

Ravi

Ravi translates to “sun” in Sanskrit and is a traditional name signifying warmth and energy.

This name is widely used and appreciated across various Indian communities.

Vijay

Vijay means “victory” and symbolizes success and triumph.

It is a name that carries positive connotations and is often chosen to inspire a victorious spirit in the child.

Sanjay

Sanjay means “triumphant” or “completely victorious.”

This name has historical roots and is associated with Sanjaya, a character in the Mahabharata who was granted divine vision.

Rohan

Rohan translates to “ascending” or “growing.”

This name signifies progress and development, making it a popular choice among parents.

Dev

Dev means “god” or “divine.”

It is a straightforward name that conveys spiritual significance and is widespread in Hindu communities.

Krishna

Krishna is named after a major deity in Hinduism known for his teachings and adventures.

This name suggests joy, wisdom, and charm.

Aarav

Aarav, meaning “peaceful” or “calm,” is a modern yet culturally rooted name.

It is often selected for its soothing implications.

Hasan

Hasan, meaning “handsome” and “good,” has roots in Persian and Arabic.

This name is common among Muslim families in India and reflects positive attributes.

Manu

Manu, meaning “wise” or “intelligent,” is derived from the name of the first man in Hindu mythology.

It represents intellect and good judgment.

Mohan

Mohan means “charming” or “attractive.”

This name is often associated with Lord Krishna, depicting his enchanting persona.

Kabir

Kabir means “great” or “powerful.”

Named after the famous saint-poet Kabir, this name signifies wisdom and strength.

Naveen

Naveen translates to “new” or “fresh.”

This name is chosen for its modern feel and its implication of new beginnings.

Harman

Harman means “beloved of the Lord” and is a popular name among Sikh families.

It signifies a strong connection with faith and spirituality.

Rishi

Rishi means “sage” or “wise person.”

It is a name that suggests intellectual depth and is often chosen for its cultural and philosophical undertones.

Virat

Virat means “giant” or “majestic.”

This name evokes a sense of grandeur and is inspired by the vastness of the universe.

Yash

Yash means “fame” or “glory.”

This name is often selected to inspire greatness and is widely recognized in various parts of India.

Common and Popular Indian Boy Names

Amir

Meaning “commander, prince” in Arabic, this Indian boy’s name was originally a title.

In English, it’s recognized as the word emir. Predominantly used by Urdu speakers in India, Amir is a name that conveys strength and leadership.

Muhammad

This name means “praised, commendable” and comes from the Arabic word hamida, which means “to praise.”

The name is most famously associated with the Prophet Muhammad, who founded the Islamic religion in the seventh century. It is popular among Urdu, Punjabi, Pashto, and Bengali speakers.

Hassan

Originally associated with Hassan ibn Thabit, a seventh-century poet who accompanied the Prophet Muhammad, this name means “beautifier, improver” in Arabic.

Sometimes spelled as Hasan, it is commonly used by Urdu speakers.

Rohan

This is the most popular Hindu boy’s name in the United States.

Derived from the Sanskrit word rohana, it means “ascending.” Rohan pairs well with the Irish name Ronan, which means “little seal,” making them a good combination for twin boys.

Vihaan

This Hindi name comes from the Sanskrit word vihana, meaning “dawn” or “morning.”

Vihaan evokes a sense of new beginnings and is a modern choice for Indian boys.

Kabir

Meaning “great, powerful, leader” in Arabic, Kabir is a strong and influential name.

It’s one of many Indian boy names starting with the letter “K” that signify greatness.

Zahir

Derived from the Arabic word zahir, which means “helper, supporter,” this unique name is used by Punjabi, Urdu, and Bengali speakers.

Zahir is a name that denotes reliability and support.

Ishaan

This Hindu name of Sanskrit origin refers to the guardian of the northeast direction and is often associated with the deity Shiva.

Ishaan is a name imbued with cultural and religious significance.

Mustafa

Meaning “the chosen one” in Arabic, this name is used by Urdu speakers.

Mustafa is also an epithet of Muhammad, making it a name with strong historical and spiritual roots.

Avyaan

Derived from Sanskrit, Avyaan means “beginning” and is associated with the Hindu gods Vishnu and Ganesha.

This name signifies the start of something new and auspicious.

Classic Indian Boy Names

Deepak

Deepak, also spelled Dipak, originates from Sanskrit and means “inflaming” or “exciting.”

The name comes from “Dipaka,” an epithet for the Hindu god of love, Kama. It is popular in many Indian languages, including Hindi, Marathi, Bengali, Gujarati, Punjabi, Malayalam, Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Nepali. A notable person with this name is author Deepak Chopra.

Ganesha

Ganesha is a timeless Indian name that refers to the Hindu god of wisdom, who is depicted with an elephant head.

The word Ganesha in Sanskrit means “lord of the multitude.” This name is predominantly used by followers of Hinduism.

Krishna

Though the name Krishna translates to “black” or “dark,” it represents one of the most supreme Hindu gods.

Krishna is an incarnation of the god Vishnu. This name is commonly used in Hindi, Marathi, Bengali, Gujarati, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, and Nepali.

Manish

Manish is a name that means “thought” or “wisdom” in Sanskrit.

It is widely used in languages like Hindi, Marathi, Bengali, Malayalam, Punjabi, Tamil, and Nepali.

Rahul

Rahul, derived from Sanskrit, means “able” or “efficient.”

Notably, this was the name of the Buddha’s son. The name is prevalent among speakers of Hindi, Marathi, Bengali, Assamese, Odia, Gujarati, Punjabi, Malayalam, Tamil, Kannada, and Telugu.

Ravindra

Ravindra combines the meaning of “sun” with the name of the Hindu god Indra.

It serves as an epithet for the Hindu sun god, Surya. The name is commonly used in Hindi, Marathi, Telugu, and Kannada.

Siddhartha

Siddhartha, the original name of Buddha, means “one who has accomplished a goal.”

This name carries a profound meaning, perfect for a boy with many achievements ahead.

Sukhwinder

Sukhwinder is a name often found within the Sikh community. It translates to “pleasant” or “happy” in Sanskrit and is combined with the name of the Hindu god Indra.

Surendra

Surendra in Sanskrit means “lord of gods,” often used as an epithet for the god Indra.

This name is widespread among Hindi, Marathi, Telugu, and Nepali speakers.

Vishnu

Vishnu means “all-pervasive” in Sanskrit and represents a supreme Hindu deity depicted with four arms and blue skin.

Known as the protector and preserver of the universe, this name is common in Malayalam, Kannada, Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, and Marathi.

Modern Indian Boy Names

Anant

Meaning “infinite, endless,” Anant is the modern take on Ananta.

It carries deep cultural significance, often serving as an epithet for the Hindu deities Vishnu or Parvati. This name is widely used in Hindi and Marathi.

Bhaskar

Bhaskar, a modern form of Bhaskara, translates to “shining.”

Often associated with the Hindu god Shiva, this name also belonged to a famous twelfth-century Indian astronomer. It is common in Hindi, Marathi, Telugu, and Kannada.

Dilip

This name, a modern version of Dilipa, means “protector of Delhi.”

Several Indian kings were named Dilip, and its usage spans across Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Bengali, Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam.

Dinesh

Dinesh, derived from Dinesha, means “day lord” in Sanskrit.

Found in ancient Hindu texts as a name for the sun, Dinesh is popular among speakers of Hindi, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Gujarati, Bengali, Punjabi, Nepali, and Sinhalese.

Harish

Harish translates to “lord of monkeys” and was originally spelled Harisha.

The name is often an epithet for the Hindu god Vishnu. It is commonly used in Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam.

Kumar

Meaning “boy” or “son,” Kumar comes from the Sanskrit word kumala.

It can be an epithet for the Hindu gods Agni and Skanda.

Kumar is used in Hindi, Marathi, Bengali, Assamese, Odia, Gujarati, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and Nepali.

Lakshman

Lakshman, meaning “having lucky marks,” is the modern form of Lakshmana.

The name appears in the Hindu epic the Ramayana, where Lakshman accompanies the hero Rama.

It is favored among Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam speakers.

Prabhakar

Prabhakar, meaning “light maker,” is the modern take on Prabhakara.

The name signifies the sun in ancient Hindu texts and was also borne by a renowned Hindu scholar.

It’s common among Kannada, Telugu, Tamil, Marathi, and Hindi speakers.

Shankar

Shankar combines the Sanskrit words sham (auspicious) and kara (maker).

An epithet for the Hindu god Shiva, this name was also borne by a ninth-century Indian religious philosopher.

It is used widely in Hindi, Marathi, Kannada, Malayalam, Telugu, Tamil, Bengali, and Nepali.

Vikram

Vikram, meaning “stride,” “pace,” or “valor,” is the modern form of Vikrama.

Often used as an epithet for the Hindu god Vishnu, this name is popular among speakers of Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada.

Unique Indian Boy Names

Dharma

This Indian boys’ name signifies “law,” “duty,” or “virtue.”

It’s frequently used in Hindi, Telugu, and Nepali-speaking communities, offering a stoic and honorable choice for a baby boy.

Jayesh

A strong name that means “lord of victory,” derived from the Sanskrit words jaya and isha.

It’s popular among Hindi, Marathi, and Gujarati speakers.

Kartik

Named after the constellation Pleiades, which is part of Taurus, this name is great for boys born under this astrological sign.

Mitra

In Sanskrit, Mitra translates to “friend.”

It’s also the name of a Hindu god of friendship mentioned in ancient Sanskrit hymns known as the Rigveda.

Pravin

Meaning “skilled” in Sanskrit, Pravin is used by Marathi, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Telugu, Tamil, and Malayalam speakers.

It sets a hopeful tone for a boy’s future abilities.

Rashmi

With the meaning “ray of sunlight,” this name captures the brightness that a new baby brings to one’s life.

Sampath

Synonymous with “success” and “wealth,” Sampath is used in Kannada, Telugu, Tamil, and Sinhalese languages, wishing prosperity for a baby boy.

Shakti

A truly powerful name meaning “power” in Sanskrit.

Though unisex, it’s often associated with the strength and energy of Shiva’s female counterpart in Hinduism, Parvati.

Sikandar

The Urdu and Pashto form of Alexander, Sikandar makes for a unique, Western-sounding name for an Indian boy.

Vishal

This name means “wide, broad, spacious,” originating from Sanskrit.

It is popular in many regions and languages including Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Punjabi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Bengali.

More Unique Indian Boy Names

• Aarav: Translating to “peaceful” in Sanskrit, Aarav is created from “rav,” the sound of the dawn.
• Advait: Meaning “unique” in Sanskrit, this name conveys the idea of indivisibility and uniqueness.
• Daiwik: This name translates to “divine” and signifies a spiritual connection.
• Eshan: This name means “lord, ruler,” derived from a Sanskrit term for the north-east.
• Hriday: A beautiful name meaning “heart” in Sanskrit.
• Ishaan: Meaning “sun” or “lord,” this name signifies light and divinity.
• Kunal: With roots in Sanskrit, Kunal means “lotus” and stands for purity.
• Lakshya: This name translates to “target” or “goal,” representing ambition.
• Vihaan: Meaning “dawn” in Sanskrit, Vihaan signifies a new beginning.
• Yash: Meaning “glory” in Sanskrit, Yash is a popular name that signifies success and fame.

Cool Indian Boy Names

Arjun

In Sanskrit, this name means “white, clear.”

In ancient Hindu texts, Arjuna is a heroic figure, the son of the god Indra and Princess Kunti.

Arjun is commonly used in various languages such as Hindi, Marathi, Kannada, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Gujarati, Bengali, and Nepali.

Ashok

Derived from the original spelling Ashoka, Ashok means “without sorrow” in Sanskrit.

This name is a popular choice among speakers of Hindi, Marathi, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Nepali.

Bharat

Bharat is another fascinating name, known as Bharata in its original form. It means “being maintained” in Sanskrit.

An interesting fact about this name is that Bharat is also the official name of India in several Indian languages.

Murugan

This Tamil name probably stems from the Dravidian term for “youth.”

Murugan is the Tamil god of war, comparable to the Hindu god Skanda.

Nikhil

In Sanskrit, Nikhil means “whole, entire.”

It’s a name used in many languages including Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Odia, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and Tamil.

Kapil

Kapil, from the original spelling Kapila, signifies “reddish brown” in Sanskrit, hinting at a connection to monkeys.

In the Mahabharata, Kapila is a sage.

Ravi

Meaning “sun” in Sanskrit, Ravi is also the Hindu sun god’s name.

Well-known modern figures like the musician Ravi Shankar have carried this name.

Sanjay

Sanjay originates from the Mahabharata, where Sanjaya means “triumphant.”

It’s a name used in various languages such as Hindi, Marathi, Bengali, Odia, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Telugu, Tamil, and Nepali.

Shahjahan

This name is Urdu in origin and translates to “king of the world.”

Shahjahan is famous for being the name of the seventeenth-century Mughal emperor who built the Taj Mahal.

Viraj

Viraj emerges from the original spelling Viraja, meaning “ruling” or “sovereign” in Sanskrit.

It was also the name of one of the Hindu god Brahma’s children.

Cute Indian Boy Names

Ankur

This Indian boy’s name means “sapling, sprout, shoot” in Sanskrit. The imagery of a young plant growing makes this name very charming.

Kishor

For those who love horses, Kishor might be a lovely choice. It means “colt,” referring to a young male horse, capturing the essence of youth and energy.

Raghu

Derived from Sanskrit, Raghu means “swift.”

It’s a name with historical significance, appearing as the great-grandfather of Rama in Hindu epics and also as the name of Buddha’s son.

Rajiv

Rajiv translates to “striped,” specifically referring to the blue lotus mentioned in ancient texts.

This name is popular among speakers of Hindi, Marathi, Malayalam, Tamil, and Nepali. Alternate spellings include Rajeev and Rajib.

Rishi

If wisdom is what you hope to impart, Rishi is a fitting name. It means “sage” or “poet” in Sanskrit, making it a thoughtful and endearing choice.

Rohit

Rohit is not only pleasing to the ear but also means “red.”

Its popularity spans across languages like Hindi, Marathi, Bengali, Odia, Gujarati, Kannada, Telugu, and Nepali.

Sachin

Sachin means “true” or “real” in Sanskrit.

It’s also famously associated with Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, lending the name a sense of authenticity and glory.

Singh

Singh stands out due to its strong meaning of “lion.”

Common among Sikhs, it is often used as a middle name, giving it both strength and cultural significance.

Sunil

Combining the Sanskrit words su and nila, Sunil means “very dark blue.”

It’s a serene name that might appeal to those who appreciate the color dark blue.

Surya

As the name of the Hindu god of the sun, Surya is both radiant and powerful.

It is commonly found among speakers of Telugu, Kannada, Tamil, Malayalam, Hindi, Marathi, Nepali, and Indonesian.

Short Indian Boy Names

Arya

Arya is a unisex name that has Persian origins and means “noble.” This name is commonly used by Hindi and Malayalam speakers.

Ayan

Ayan is a name that means “road, path, procession” in Sanskrit. It is quite popular among Bengali speakers.

Deep

The name Deep is an alternative spelling of Dip, which is the masculine form of the female name Dipa.

In Sanskrit, it translates to “light” or “lamp” and is used by speakers of Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Bengali, and Punjabi.

Dev

Dev simply means “god” and derives from the Sanskrit word deva. This name is quite popular and widely recognized.

Gul

Gul is of Persian origin and means “flower” or “rose” in Urdu and Pashto. The name evokes a sense of beauty and delicacy.

Hari

Hari has multiple meanings including “brown, yellow, tawny,” as well as “monkey,” “horse,” or “lion.”

It is an epithet for the Hindu gods Vishnu and sometimes Krishna. This name is used by speakers of Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, and Nepali.

Harsh

Harsh is a variant spelling of Harsha, a name belonging to a seventh-century emperor of northern India.

It is used by Hindi, Marathi, and Gujarati speakers in northern India.

Indra

Indra is the name of the Hindu warrior god of rain and sky, which relates to its meaning “possessing drops of rain” in Sanskrit.

The name carries a vivid, beautiful image and is quite unique.

Jay

Jay is a name used mostly in northern India and derives from the Sanskrit word jaya, meaning “victory.”

It is also an epithet for the Hindu goddess Durga. This name is popular among Hindi, Marathi, and Gujarati speakers.

Sher

Sher has Persian origins and means “lion” in Urdu and Pashto. It carries a strong, ferocious meaning. A notable bearer of this name was a sixteenth-century Mughal ruler.

More Short Indian Boy Names

Here are 10 more short Indian boy names for you to consider:

• Kavi: Meaning “poet” in Sanskrit, this name is often used by Hindi and Tamil speakers.
• Taj: Of Persian origin, meaning “crown” or “jewel,” and used by Urdu and Hindi speakers.
• Rohan: This name means “ascending” in Sanskrit and is popularly used among Hindi, Bengali, and Marathi speakers.
• Shaan: Meaning “pride” or “peace” in Hindi and Urdu.
• Neil: A name meaning “blue” in Sanskrit, often used by Hindi speakers.
• Reva: Meaning “one who moves” in Sanskrit, and used by Hindi speakers.
• Sam: A common nickname or short form for names like Sameer, meaning “wind” or “air” in Sanskrit.
• Vik: Often short for Vikram, which means “valor” in Sanskrit.
• Tej: Meaning “light” or “radiance” in Sanskrit, used by Hindi and Marathi speakers.
• Nish: A short form of Nishant, meaning “night’s end” or “dawn” in Sanskrit.

Powerful Indian Boy Names

Abhay

Abhay, from Sanskrit origins, signifies “fearless.” This name is especially popular among Hindi and Marathi speakers. Choosing Abhay for your son can be a way to instill fearlessness and steadfast courage in him.

Abhijit

The name Abhijit, meaning “victorious” in Sanskrit, also refers to the star Vega. It is a great choice for those with an interest in astronomy. Abhijit is used widely by speakers of Hindi, Marathi, and Bengali.

Abrar

Abrar is an Arabic-origin name meaning “virtuous.” Although it is considered a feminine name in Arabic-speaking regions, in the Urdu-speaking communities of Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh, Abrar is used for boys.

Agni

Agni means “fire” in Sanskrit and is also the name of the Hindu god of fire. The god Agni is often depicted with red skin, three legs, seven arms, and two faces. This name is perfect for a child you want to be strong and dynamic.

Ajay

Ajay, meaning “unconquered” in Sanskrit, is a popular name among speakers of Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Bengali, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Tamil. It’s easy to pronounce and has a Western appeal, commonly shortened to AJ.

Anish

Anish has a profound meaning in Sanskrit, translating to “supreme,” “paramount,” and “without a ruler.” This name could be an excellent choice if you envision your son having limitless potential and leadership qualities.

Balwinder

The name Balwinder is derived from the Sanskrit word “bala,” meaning “strength” or “might,” and is combined with the name of the Hindu god Indra. This Sikh name embodies strength and power, ideal for a strong, spirited boy.

Durai

Durai is a Tamil name that simply means “chief” or “leader.” It’s a suitable pick for parents who sense that their son was born to lead and make significant decisions.

Jaya

Jaya is a versatile name, used in northern India for girls and in southern India for both boys and girls. Derived from the Sanskrit word for victory, Jaya is often associated with the Hindu goddess Durga. It’s commonly used among speakers of Hindi, Marathi, Tamil, and Telugu.

Rajesh

Rajesh combines two Sanskrit words, “raja” (king) and “isha” (lord), to mean “ruler of kings.” This name is widely used among speakers of Hindi, Marathi, Bengali, Gujarati, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Nepali. Its popularity soared due to a character in the TV show The Big Bang Theory.

Even More Indian Boy Names

Aarav

Aarav is a name that means “peaceful” and “calm”. It is a popular choice for boys in India.

Vihaan

Vihaan means “dawn” or “beginning of a new era”. It symbolizes a fresh start or a new day.

Arjun

Arjun stands for “bright” and “shining”. It is also associated with a heroic figure from Indian mythology.

Kavya

Kavya translates to “poetry”. It signifies creativity and artistic expression.

Dev

Dev means “god”. It is a short and strong name often chosen for its simplicity and significance.

Rohan

Rohan, a common choice, means “ascending” or “to grow”. It represents growth and progress.

Raj

Raj means “king” or “ruler”. It denotes leadership and authority.

Aman

Aman translates to “peace”. It is a name that exudes calmness and serenity.

Kabir

Kabir, a revered poet’s name, means “great” or “powerful”. It is associated with wisdom and strength.

Anil

Anil means “wind”. It represents freedom and movement.

Ravi

Ravi means “sun”. It symbolizes warmth, energy, and vitality.

Sanjay

Sanjay translates to “triumphant”. It signifies victory and success.

Yash

Yash means “glory”. It conveys honor and high esteem.

Rohit

Rohit translates to “red” or “first rays of the sun”. It signifies new beginnings and energy.

Surya

Surya means “sun”. It is another name that symbolizes light and brightness.

Sameer

Sameer means “breeze” or “wind”. It represents freshness and a pleasant personality.

Amit

Amit means “infinite” or “unmeasurable”. It signifies boundless potential and greatness.

Arnav

Arnav translates to “ocean”. It symbolizes depth and vastness.

Aditya

Aditya means “sun”. It suggests brightness and positivity.

Nikhil

Nikhil means “whole” or “complete”. It represents completeness and balance.

Ishan

Ishan means “lord” or “sun”. It conveys a sense of divinity and light.

Pranav

Pranav means “sacred sound” or “primordial”. It signifies spirituality and origin.

Vikram

Vikram translates to “valor” or “courage”. It denotes bravery and strength.

Jay

Jay means “victory”. It signifies achievement and success.

Ayaan

Ayaan means “gift from God”. It conveys a sense of blessing.

Harsh

Harsh translates to “happiness”. It symbolizes joy and cheerfulness.

Lakshman

Lakshman, a mythological name, means “having auspicious marks”. It suggests good fortune.

Mohan

Mohan means “charming” or “bewitching”.

It represents attractiveness and appeal.