Sanskrit Names that Start With R

  1. Rani
    • Origin:

      Hindi, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "queen; she is singing"
    • Description:

      Rani, alternatively spelled Ranee, is the female equivalent of Raja in Hindi. In many Indo-Aryan languages it can mean "queen" or "lady". The Hebrew version is used for both genders in modern Israel. Actress Kate Hudson and director Danny Fujikawa named their daughter Rani after Fujikawa's late father, whose name was Ron.
  2. Rishi
    • Origin:

      Sanskrit
    • Meaning:

      "sage"
    • Description:

      A number of stylish Indian names are making their way to the US mainstream, including wise Rishi. In Hindu mythology, the Rishis are sages and seers; in modern times, Rishi Rich is a popular British-born musician and record producer and Rishi Sunak became Prime Minister of the UK in 2022.
  3. Rania
    • Origin:

      Arabic, Greek
    • Meaning:

      "to gaze, to look; heavenly"
    • Description:

      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.
  4. Ranie
    • Description:

      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.
  5. Ram
    • Origin:

      Arabic; Sanskrit
    • Meaning:

      "archer; pleasing"
    • Description:

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

      Sanskrit
    • Meaning:

      "sandalwood"
    • Description:

      Beguiling alternative to Johanna.
  7. Rajani
    • Origin:

      Sanskrit
    • Meaning:

      "dark, of the night"
    • Description:

      Lots of charm.
  8. Ranee
    • Description:

      Ranee is a feminine name derived from the Sanskrit word 'rani' meaning 'queen' or 'princess.' It represents the female equivalent of 'raja' (king) and has been used as a title for the wife of a raja or a ruling queen in South Asian cultures, particularly in India. The spelling 'Ranee' is an Anglicized variation of the more traditional 'Rani.' While not among the most common names in Western countries, it has seen modest usage among those seeking names with regal associations or South Asian cultural connections. The name carries an elegant, noble quality and exotic appeal. Its straightforward pronunciation and spelling make it accessible despite its international origins. Ranee offers a combination of feminine strength, cultural richness, and royal connotations that appeals to parents looking for a distinctive yet meaningful name.

  9. Rama
    • Origin:

      Sanskrit
    • Meaning:

      "lofty"
    • Description:

      This name of a revered Hindu deity is heard in several cultures.
  10. Raga
    • Origin:

      Sanskrit, musical term
    • Meaning:

      "color or melody"
    • Description:

      Raga is musical, yes, but that 'rag' syllable worries us.
  11. Ramana
    • Origin:

      Sanskrit
    • Meaning:

      "beautiful"
    • Description:

      Has a sound as lovely as its meaning.
  12. Ranjit
    • Origin:

      Sanskrit
    • Meaning:

      "charmed, beguiled"
    • Description:

      Intriguing import.
  13. Rajiv
    • Origin:

      Sanskrit
    • Meaning:

      "striped"
    • Description:

      Known here via the son of Indira Gandhi, who himself became prime minister of India.
  14. Rishi
    • Origin:

      Sanskrit
    • Meaning:

      "sage"
    • Description:

      Wise, with vivacity.