135 Modern Tamil Baby Names For Girls And Boys

Tamil, one of the ancient languages, has a long list of traditional names for both girls and boys. In this post, we bring to you a list of beautiful Tamil baby names for girls and boys. When a baby is being expected, we often don’t know what the gender is going to be, and hence, to make your work a little easier, we bring you a list of names for girls and a list of names for boys. These names have rich cultural connotations and sound pleasing. So read on to see which name suits your taste best.

In This Article

Naming Tradition In Tamilians

A naming ceremony among Tamilians is called the ‘Thottil’ ceremony. The family, close relatives, and friends gather two weeks post the baby’s birth to name the baby. All of them say the baby’s name to the newborn three times each. That is followed by the ritual of father writing the name of the baby on a platter of rice.

Since Tamil is an ancient language, there are hundreds and thousands of names that keep evolving with time.

Sreejith Parameswaran, a doctor who recently moved to Pondicherry, narrates his experiences with South Indian names in a blog. He says, “I was new to this part of the country and yet to experience such ‘cultural shocks’… One gets to see all sorts of ‘weird’ names here in Pondicherry and Tamil Nadu and I have stopped getting surprised with such ‘unexpected’ names.

“I think Tamil probably has the maximum variety when it comes to names. Yes, there are some names that are quite common (Palani, Karthik, etc.). But there also seems to be an endless ‘variety’ as well. You come across a ‘yet unheard of’ name every other day, if you are in a profession like ours,’ meeting many people regularly (i).”

Let’s look at some of the unique Tamil names for girls and boys.

 

Tamil Baby Girl Names

1. Aadarshini

Aadarshini means ‘idealistic’. They may say that the world is too cruel to be idealistic these days, but life is all about looking at the positives! So, go for this beautiful name if you too are an optimist.

2. Aadhya

Aadhya means ‘First power’. It is a beautiful and powerful name for your little girl.

3. Aahna

Looking for a modern Tamil baby name that is unique yet meaningful? Try Aahna. It means ‘exist’.

4. Aamaal

Aamaal means ‘hopes’. It is the perfect Tamil modern baby name for your daughter. Isn’t her very existence a symbol of hope and faith?

5. Aamani

Aamani is a traditional name with a beautiful meaning. It means ‘good wish’ and also means ‘spring season’.

6. Abilasha

Having a daughter has been your desire for long? Then this name can be perfect for your girl. Abilasha means ‘wish or desire’.

7. Adya

If you believe in keeping things simple, this name will appeal to you. Adya is a short and simple name. But it has a strong meaning – ‘first or unparalleled’.

8. Anasuya

Some names have the good old charm, and Anasuya is one of them. It means ‘non-jealous’.

9. Arpana

Here’s a classic name that still holds weight! Arpana means ‘offering’. It is a great name for religious and spiritual families.

10. Akshara

Akshara is a very popular name, not just in Tamil Nadu but all over South India. It means ‘letter or alphabet’. Most Tamil families prioritize education in their lives. That is why this name holds relevance in the region.

11. Alaka

Not all names need to be profound and deep! Some names are lighthearted. Take Alaka for example. It sounds nice, is easy to spell, and means ‘a girl with lovely hair.’

12. Banhi

Fire is considered holy and special by most Indians. The Tamil culture too worships fire. What better name than Banhi, which means ‘fire’, to honor this age-old culture?

protip_icon Did you know?
Fire is one of the principal Vedic deities worshiped by Hindus. Fire is a fundamental part of Hinduism’s Vedic traditions, serving as a mediator between the worshiper and various gods.

13. Bhairavi

Some names remain popular, no matter how old they are. Bhairavi is a good example. It is another name for ‘Goddess Durga’ and symbolizes strength, purity, and fearlessness.

14. Bhavika

Looking for a modern baby girl name in Tamil? Look no further! Bhavika is an artistic name and means ‘well-meaning or righteous or cheerful expression’.

15. Bhanumati

There is something about baby girls, isn’t it? They bring brightness into our lives like never before. Bhanumati means ‘bright or shining’.

16. Bhanupriya

A very common name, Bhanupriya means ‘beloved of the Sun’. If you want to stay true to your culture and want to give your daughter a classic Tamil name, Bhanupriya will be a good bet.

17. Cavery

For Tamilians, the river Cavery holds a special relevance. It is the most important source of water for Tamil Nadu. Cavery is also a nature-inspired name.

18. Chitra

Chitra is a popular and common name in India. This versatile name means ‘drawing or picture, a star – nakshatra, or name of a river’.

19. Chellam

It is but normal to treat your little one like a princess. She is, after all, the ruler of your heart and soul! Name her Chellam, which means ‘pampered’.

20. Daevi

Daevi means ‘goddess or deity’. It is a powerful yet feminine and spiritual name for girls of the 21st century.

21. Dipti

Dipti is another common name that knows no regional boundaries. It means ‘brightness or ray of light.’

22. Dharuna

If you want a profound-sounding name, then Dharuna is the one. Itmeans ‘supporting’.

23. Driti

Driti is a short and sweet name meaning ‘courage’.

24. Dwani

The Tamil culture is popular for its music and arts. That is why the name Dwani is an homage to Tamil music. It means ‘nice voice or sound’.

25. Deesha

Deesha (also spelt as Disha) is a popular Indian name that is common among Tamilians too. It means ‘direction’.

26. Devika

Some Tamil names for girl baby are so wonderful that they never really fall out of favor! Devika is a pretty name, and is easy to spell and pronounce. It means ‘like an angel, little goddess, mother of Krishna, minor deity’.

27. Dhanvi

Most Hindu families consider their daughter a symbol of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Name your little princess Dhanvi, which is another name of ‘Goddess Lakshmi’.

28. Dhivja

If you want to give your daughter a name that is unique but not too exotic, opt for Dhivja. It means ‘heavenly or brilliant’.

29. Eila

Eila, pronounced as ‘Ila’, is short, stylish, and sweet. It means ‘The Earth or cardamom tree’.

30. Ezhil

Ezhil means ‘beautiful.’ This amazing name is still uncommon. So grab it while you still can.

31. Elakya

If you interested in literature and looking to give your daughter a literature-inspired name, then try Elakya. It means ‘literature’.

32. Eswari

Looking for a classic Tamil name, that is also religious? Go for Eswari, which means ‘Goddess Parvati’.

33. Eyalisai

Here’s another melodious name for your little girl. Eyalisai means ‘music’.

34. Gita

Gita is a very popular name in India. Gita refers to the ‘Bhagwat Gita’, which complies Hindu wisdom of ages.

35. Gitika

Some names break free of regional boundaries and find takers all over India. Gitika is no longer just a Tamil name! But it remains a great option for parents looking for a pretty name for their little girls. The name means ‘small song’.

36. Gautami

Gautami is a beautiful name of the river Godavari.

37. Gayathri

Also spelled Gayatri, the name has become a pan-India name. It has several meanings, including ‘good character, precious angel, goddess Durga, or chant of salvation’.

38. Gitanjali

One of the biggest divine gifts we have today is music. Gitanjali means ‘an offering of songs’.

39. Girija

Girija is a charming traditional name and is the name of Goddess Parvati.

40. Haniya

Haniya means ‘pleased’. It also refers to ‘happy or resting place’. With some many different meanings, Haniya is a winner of a name in our books.

41. Harita

A very common South Indian, Tamil Hindu baby name, Harita means ‘green, nature’s friend, or nature’s beloved’.

42. Hima

Hima is a beautiful and trendy name. It means ‘snow’. Consider this name if you want something that is inspired by nature.

43. Hita

You sure want your little girl to be loved by everyone, don’t you? Then choose Hita, which means, ‘who wants good for everyone or is lovable’.

44. Himaja

The world, according to Hindu mythology, was created by the union of the masculine and the feminine powers. Himaja means ‘Goddess Parvati’ who symbolizes the feminine creator of the cosmos.

45. Iyla

Tamil is a treasure trove of short and easy names. Iyla is one such short, sweet, and meaningful name that stands for ‘moonlight’.

46. Iniya

Iniya means ‘sweet’. The perfect name for your sweet little darling!

47. Ishva

Gift your daughter the knowledge of spirituality by name her Ishva. This heart-touching name means ‘spiritual teacher’.

48. Iyalisai

Another great name for musical families – Iyalisai means ‘music’.

49. Jaya

Jaya means ‘victorious’. As it is a short name, Jaya is often combined with another middle names.

50. Jayantika

One of the many names of goddess Durga, Jayantika is a powerful name for your daughter.

protip_icon Quick fact
Durga is an incarnation of the Hindu Goddess Parvati. Goddess Durga has 108 names and countless avatars.

51. Janhavi

Janhavi is a traditional name that sounds modern. Janhavi means ‘Ganga the river’. You can also spell it as Janvi.

52. Jyotibala

A classic, old-fashioned name, Jyotibala means ‘splendor’.

53. Kolam

Looking for a feminine name for your daughter? Kolam means ‘soft’. It is an angelic name for your darling, baby girl.

54. Kriti

Kriti means ‘a work of art or winner’. These amazing meanings give this name an edge over others.

53. Kayalvizhi

Kayalvizhi means, ‘one who has eyes like a Kayal fish’. Kayal can be used as its nickname.

55. Laya

Laya means ‘rhythm’. It is a musical name, but you don’t have to be a musician to appreciate this beautiful name!

56. Lalitha

Another common yet beautiful name, Lalitha means ‘Goddess Durga’, and symbolizes strength and purity.

57. Madhi

There are some names that you fall in love with instantly. Madhi is one of them. It means ‘moon or brilliant’.

58. Maivizhi

This name can make your girl all the more beautiful. Maivizhi means ‘one who has beautiful eyes with Mai (or Kaajal) applied’.

59. Mithra

Here’s another interesting name for your daughter. Mithra means ‘friend’.

60. Namya

Namya as a name is not overtly religious but does hold a touch of spirituality. Namya means ‘to be bowed to’.

61. Niravi

Niravi means ‘bliss’. It is an exotic name but not too complicated.

62. Prajina

Prajina is another jewel from the Tamil language. It means ‘wisdom’.

63. Rithya

Your daughter is one in a million. So, give her a name that will do justice to her uniqueness. Name her Rithya, which means ‘lucky’.

64. Sayuri

Here’s a feminine name for a pretty little girl – Sayuri, which means ‘flower’ in Tamil.

65. Oviya

If you are artistically inclined, you should choose Oviya. It is not only beautiful but meaningful too. It means ‘beautiful art’.

66. Venba

If you belong to a family of poets, this name will surely appeal to you as Venba is a form of classical Tamil poetry.

67. Urmika

If you want a unique name for your girl, choose Urmika. It means ‘small wave’. Urmi is its sweet nickname.

68. Vainavi

Your daughter is nothing less than gold. You can give the name Vainavi, which literally means ‘gold’.

69. Vennila

Your girl is as beautiful as the moon and Vennila can be the perfect choice to name her. It means ‘the bright white moon’.

70. Yaazhini

Yaazhini is a name based on Yaazh, the ancient Tamil music instrument.

Tamil Baby Boy Names

71. Aabhat

Here’s an unusual Tamil baby name for a baby boy. Aabhat means ‘shining’. If you are looking for an interesting and meaningful Tamil name, this one is for you.

72. Aadavan

The Sun is the giver of life! So name your son ‘Aadavan’, which stands for sun.

73. Aahan

Your little boy’s birth has brought with it a myriad of new adventures. It is the beginning of a new life. Name him Aahan, which means ‘dawn’.

74. Advait

You want your boy’s name to stand out from the rest, then name him Advait, which means ‘unique’.

75. Arnish

Arnish – what a melodious and beautiful name! Arnish means ‘lord of the sea’.

76. Arnoh

Little babies are untouched by the harsh realities of life. Name your innocent child Arnoh, which means ‘unblemished’.

77. Aroush

The sun rises and chases away all the darkness from the world. Just like the sun, your baby boy makes everything better in your life. The name Aroush reflects this feeling of love and attachment. It means ‘first ray of sun’.

78. Ajai

Ajai means ‘invincible’.

79. Akil

Here’s another popular name that you can shortlist. Akil (also written as Akhil) means ‘fire’.

80. Balan

Short and sweet ‘Balan’ can be a good choice for your boy. Balan means ‘vibrant’, and Bala can be a cute nickname.

81. Bhadra

No matter how old they are, some names never run out of style, and Bhadra is one of them. Bhadra means ‘auspicious’.

82. Chandra

Here’s another classic name, this time for your little boy! Chandira means ‘moon.’ If you believe in breaking stereotypes, you can even use this name for your baby girl too!

83. Charan

Charan means ‘feet or a humble person’. It is a common name that refuses to let go of its popularity!

84. Chaitan

Chaitan is an old-fashioned name, but its meaning fits right in with the new-age, spiritual revolution. The name means ‘consciousness’.

85. Deva

Are you scouting for a name that reflects your faith in God? Try Deva. It means ‘deity’ in Tamil. It is a short name but with a weighty meaning.

86. Dhir

Here’s another short name with a powerful meaning. Dhir means ‘wise’. Wisdom and health are the greatest gifts you can give to your child!

87. Dabir

Dabir means ‘teacher or writer’. If you are artistically or academically inclined, Dabir will be the perfect name for the latest addition to your family.

88. Daiwik

Have you considered Daiwik? It is a name that is yet to catch people’s fancy and is up for grabs! It means ‘by the grace of God’.

89. Deeraj

Also written as Dheeraj, the name means ‘patience’. It is the one virtue that you’ll need in abundance as you walk the parenting journey!

90. Devesh

Devesh is a very versatile name. Not just Hindus, but Christians can use this name as well. The name means ‘God of gods’ and refers to both Lord Shiva and Jesus Christ.

91. Deepesh

Deepesh is a popular name, meaning ‘lord of light’.

92. Desikan

Here’s another unique name from the treasure trove that of Tamil language! Desikan means ‘national boy’. It also refers to Lord Krishna.

93. Dhanush

Made nationally popular by the popular Tamil actor Dhanush, the name means ‘bow’.

94. Deivigan

This unique and wonderful name means ‘divine’. It is a great choice for families with artistic leanings.

95. Duraivel

This Tamil name means ‘Lord Murugan’, who is is extensively worshiped in South India.

96. Eegan

Now here’s a name that is as unique as a name can get! Eegan means ‘benevolent, charitable, endowed’.

97. Eashan

Eashan is a good Hindu Tamil baby name starting with the E? It symbolizes both ‘Lord Shiva’ and ‘Lord Vishnu’.

98. Eniyan

Here’s another unique Tamil name that means ‘young’.

99. Evyavan

Evyavan refers to Lord Vishnu and means ‘granter of all wishes’.

100. Ezhilarasan

If you don’t mind a complicated name, consider Ezhilarasan. The name means ‘prettiest king’ and is fit for the prince of your home and soul!

101. Falgun

Falgun is a month in the Hindu calendar. The month is named after a star. So, if your son was born in this month, you can name him Falgun.

102. Giri

Giri means ‘mountain’. It is a very common name in India. So, if you are looking for a short but classic name, Giri is the name for you.

103. Gayan

If music is what drives your world, Gayan is what you should name your son! This lovely name means ‘song or sky’ in Tamil.

104. Guhan

Lord Kartikeya or Murugan has many followers in Tamil culture. If you are one of them, you should consider Guhan, another name for Lord Murugan, as a name for your son.

105. Genivan

This name means a ‘truthful person’.

106. Gursaanj

If you consider God as your friend, then this name will speak to you. Gursaanj means ‘partnership with God’.

107. Hanish

Are you a devotee of Lord Shiva? Then name your son ‘Hanish’, which is another name for Lord Shiva.

108. Hardik

This is a name to express your heartfelt love and happiness for your little boy. Hardik means ‘heartfelt’.

109. Harshavardhan

This is a lengthy name but has a great meaning. It means ‘one who increases joy’. Harsh can be its stylish nickname.

110. Hemant

If your boy is born in winter, then consider this name. Hemant is the most beautiful season of the year (part of winter).

111. Ijay

‘I’ is a difficult letter when it comes to Indian names. But you are in luck because we have an amazing name for you. Ijay is another name for Lord Vishnu.

112. Ilaiyaraja

Who wouldn’t want to be named after the musical maestro of the music industry? Ilaiyaraja means ‘prince’.

113. Ilesh

Another beautiful and Tamil name for your son, Ilesh means ‘lord of the Earth’.

114. Iniyan

A beautiful name that is not religious but holds the Tamil culture afloat! Iniyan means ‘sweet’.

115. Jagan

Jagan means ‘universe’. A very common name in Tamil Nadu and neighboring Andhra Pradesh, Jagan still holds forte!

116. Jairaj

Jairaj is a name that signifies victory and it can be the perfect name to set your son on the path of success. It means ‘Lord of victory’.

117. Kasi

Kasi means ‘shining’.

118. Karun

Teach your son to be a good human being. A beautiful soul who cares for the world – now that’s somebody the world needs. Karun means ‘compassionate’.

119. Lalit

Lalit is a common name and means ‘beautiful’. The name also refers to Lord Vishnu.

120. Likhith

Also spelled Likhit, the name means ‘written’. It also a name used to refer to Lord Vishnu, making it perfect for religious families.

121. Mahit

This name may not sound from the Tamil language. mahit means ‘son of Earth or honored’. It is an interesting choice that is pretty universal.

122. Maniyan

Maniyan means ‘gem’. Your son is your treasure. So give him a name that reminds him all the time just how precious he is.

123. Narun

Narun means ‘leader of men’. Set your son on the path to leadership with this amazing name.

124. Nirush

The Mahabharata holds the wisdom of ages and can teach us so much. Connect your son with this amazing piece of literature with the name Nirush. The name refers to a king from Mahabharata.

125. Puvanan

Puvanan means ‘flowered sky’!

126. Rithul

Rithul means ‘truth seeking’. It is an honorable name for the upright man your son will grow up to become.

127. Saswin

Saswin means ‘creative thinker’. If you want your son to be an out-of-the-box thinker, then Saswin will be the perfect fit.

128. Taraknath

Most Tamil names are named after deities and Gods. Taraknath is ‘Lord Shiva’.

129. Thaman

Thaman is one of the popular Tamil names. It is a name of a God.

130. Ulagan

If you want your son to be worldly wise, choose Ulagan. It means ‘worldly’.

131. Ulhas

Little ones bring a lot of joy in life, don’t they? Ulhas is the name to signify your happiness, as it means ‘delight or joy’.

132. Uthaman

Being truthful is a virtue all of us want our kids to imbibe. You can begin that by naming your child Uthaman, which means ‘truthful’.

133. Vaishnav

This is the perfect name for the followers of Vishnu.

134. Vayun

If you are looking for an energetic name, then choose Vayun, it means ‘lively’.

135. Vasu

There’s a good old charm associated with this name. Vasu is the name of an ancient king.

Discover More Names

When you have to choose a name for your baby, a few hundreds of names may not be just enough. Keep digging our mine of baby names until you find that one precious gem.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the significance of numerology in Tamil baby names?

According to Tamil numerology, each number has a specific vibration and energy that can influence a person’s life. The vibration of a name is determined by adding up the numerical values of the letters in the name. The significance of numerology in Tamil baby names is to choose a name that is believed to bring positive energy and good luck to the baby’s life.

2. How has the trend of Tamil baby names changed over the years?

Tamil baby names have evolved with changing cultural and social trends. Traditionally, Tamil names were derived from Hindu mythology and were often gender-specific. However, in recent years, there has been a shift towards more gender-neutral names and names influenced by other cultures and languages.

3. How do Tamil baby names reflect the cultural and religious beliefs of the community?

Tamil baby names reflect the cultural and religious beliefs of the community in various ways. Many names are derived from Hindu mythology and connect to the Tamil language and its culture.

With a huge indulgence and reference to deities, nature, and music, Tamil names are full of life! So go ahead and pick your favorite name and let us know of it in the comments section below.

Infographic: Tamil Baby Names For Girls And Boys

Tamil names reflect their rich culture, history, arts, and their ways of life. The following infographic presents names inspired by Tamil culture that will appeal to you. So, scroll through and pick one for your little one. Share this list with others too!

enchanting tamil names for your baby (infographic)

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

Download Infographic in PDF version

Key Pointers

  • Tamilians conduct a traditional naming ceremony called Thottil to officially name their child.
  • Tamil names often draw inspiration from nature; for example, Aamani signifies the spring season, and Banhi means fire.
  • Tamilians also name their children after Hindu deities such as Goddess Lakshmi, Goddess Durga, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva.
  • Popular and stylish Tamil names for girls include Adya, Chitra, and Janhavi, while names like Deva, Thaman, and Vasu are common among boys.

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