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Tamil is one of the ancient languages with a rich heritage. It boasts a vast array of traditional and modern names that reflect the cultural and linguistic beauty of Tamil Nadu. These names often carry significant meanings and are celebrated in various naming ceremonies. 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 lists of names for girls and boys. These names have rich cultural connotations and pleasing sounds. So read on to see which name suits your taste best.
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.
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 the 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. Abhilasha
Has having a daughter been your desire for long? This name can be perfect for your girl. Abhilasha 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. Tamil culture too worships fire. What better name than Banhi, which means ‘fire’, to honor this age-old culture?
Did you know?13. Bhairavi
Some names remain popular, no matter how old they are. Bhairavi is a good example. It is another Goddess Durga name for baby girls, symbolizing 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 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
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 babies can never really fall out of favor! Devika is a pretty name that 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 are 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 ‘Bhagavad Gita,’ which holds 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 so 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 other middle names such as Lakshmi.
50. Jayantika
One of the many names of goddess Durga, Jayantika is a powerful name for your daughter.
Quick fact51. 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’s one of the many musical baby names, 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 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 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, a revered Lord Murugan 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’. It is also one of the many Lord Vishnu names for baby boys.
120. Likhith
Also spelled Likhit, the name means ‘written’. It is also a name used to refer to Lord Vishnu, making it perfect for religious families.
121. Mahit
This name may not sound Tamilian but is an interesting choice that is pretty universal. Mahit means ‘son of Earth or honored’.
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 for 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.
Cultural Significance Of Tamil Names
Tamil is one of India’s oldest languages; therefore, Tamil names are deep-rooted in culture, ancient customs, religion, and societal values. Several Tamil names are derived from Hindu mythology, religious texts, and other spiritual values. Many Tamilians believe in astrology, and the starting letter of the baby’s name is decided based on planetary positions and the alignment of stars at the time and place of the baby’s birth.
Some Tamil names are connected or derived from paternal ancestors to carry forward the family lineage. Several Tamil names are formed by combining two different meaningful names. Tamil names may also be derived from history, literature, and poetry. It is a common practice for Tamilians to use suffixes for names. These suffixes are used to honor the name bearer or denote familial relationships.
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 role does numerology play in selecting 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! Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Personal Experience: Source
MomJunction articles include first-hand experiences to provide you with better insights through real-life narratives. Here are the sources of personal accounts referenced in this article.
i. Nominal matters. https://sparameswaran.medium.com/nominal-matters-791636cc3b
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