Sanskrit Names

While Leela may be a spelling variation of Lila or Leila, it's also an Indian name in its own right with a playful meaning. And unlike it's more popular Western sisters, Leela does not create pronunciation confusion.

One of the fastest-rising Indian boy names of the past few years, Veer is a straightforward choice with visual appeal and a striking V initial.

Simple and worldly, popular and carrying two positive meanings in two diverse cultures. A winner prime for wider use.

This Hindu goddess name has a powerful heritage plus lively sound with a devilish edge. If you're enchanted by goddess names but want to set your little girl apart from all the Lunas and Athenas in the playground, consider Devi.

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

A variation of Nila, a name spread through African by the substantial Indian population there. Also a variant of Neala and Neila.

There's a football player called Pepper (born Thomas and given the childhood nickname for sprinkling pepper on his cereal) Johnson -- but the name has yet to make waves for boys. Given to around 5 boys each year, the musical link to The Beatle's album, Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club might appeal to some.

A strong, handsome Indian name with cross-cultural appeal.

As an Arabic name, Rania is a variation of Raniya, ultimately derived from the Arabic word ranā meaning "to gaze" or "side look". Other descendants of this root include Ranya and Rana itself. Familiar in the UK, Spain, the Netherlands and France, Rania is currently borne by Rania Al Abdullah, Queen of Jordan.

Common in India, but seldom heard in the US, Sachin is the kind of name that could easily cross cultural boundaries.

A simple, international name extremely popular in India. The word, meaning "song", also appears in the name of the Bhagavad Gita, a Hindu sacred text. Geeta is a spelling variant.

Historic and popular Indian name, borne by the son of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. On classic Hindu epics, it was the name of the charioteer of King Dhritarashtra; in the UK is was a character on the TV series Eastenders.

Lolita without the naughty implications.

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.

Viro is an uncommon masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive from Latin roots, where "vir" means "man" or "hero," suggesting strength and masculinity. Alternatively, it could have Finnish connections, where "viro" refers to Estonia or the Estonian language. In some Slavic contexts, it might be a diminutive of names containing "vir." Viro's brevity gives it a modern, minimalist appeal that works well internationally. The name remains quite rare in English-speaking countries, making it an distinctive choice for parents seeking something unique. Its simplicity and strong 'v' sound contribute to its bold, contemporary character despite its classical linguistic roots.

Krishna is the name of the supreme Hindu god that is still considered secular enough for mortal children and is often found in Hindu families, for both boys and girls.

Ranie is a gentle feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be a variant spelling of Rainie or Rainey, connecting it to rain and suggesting a fresh, natural quality. Alternatively, it could be a diminutive of Lorraine or a feminine form of Rani, which means 'queen' in Sanskrit and various South Asian languages. In Hebrew contexts, it might relate to 'ran' meaning 'singing' or 'joyful.' Though uncommon in mainstream usage, Ranie has appeared occasionally throughout the 20th century. The name carries a sweet, unpretentious charm with its soft sounds and simple spelling. Its brevity makes it contemporary-feeling while its various potential etymologies give it cross-cultural appeal. Ranie works well for parents seeking a distinctive yet accessible name with a gentle, pleasant sound.

A name rich in Hindu tradition as the alternate name for the Goddess Lakshmi, the embodiment of beauty and charm; currently borne, appropriately, by model-actress-writer Padma Lakshmi.

One of the most familiar, and assertive, names found throughout the Middle East and India, with a macho soap opera aura in this country.

A mandala is the magic circle of Buddhism and Hinduism, a powerful spiritual symbol used in art to represent the universe. It's also an important symbol in Jungian theory. As a first name, Mandala feels both natural and original, always a positive combination, but parents considering it should make themselves away of its deeper meaning.