Shamala is a unique and beautiful name of Indian origin, derived from the Sanskrit word "Sham" which means "dark, black". The name is often associated with the Hindu goddess Durga, who is known for her fierce form of Shakti, the feminine force that creates and destroys worlds.
In Hindu mythology, Shamala is also one of the names given to the divine cow Kamadhenu, who is believed to be the mother of all creatures and a symbol of abundance and prosperity. The name Shamala thus carries a deep spiritual significance and is often chosen by parents who wish to bestow their daughter with a powerful and meaningful name.
The name Shamala has been popular in India for centuries, but it gained international recognition in the 20th century when it was adopted by notable figures such as Shamala Gopalan, an Indian actress known for her role in the film "Sadhana", and Shamala Srinivasan, the wife of former US Vice President Al Gore.
Despite its growing popularity, Shamala remains a rare and distinctive name that stands out from more common names like Samantha or Sharma. It is often shortened to Shama or Mala by those who wish to use a more casual or familiar form of the name.
Overall, Shamala is a powerful and meaningful name with deep spiritual roots in Hindu mythology. Its unique sound and spelling make it a standout choice for parents looking for a distinctive and memorable name for their daughter.
The name Shamala has seen a modest but steady presence in the United States over the past few years. According to the available statistics, there were 5 babies born with this name in the year 1980, followed by an increase of one more birth in 1981, bringing the total number of births for these two years combined to a total of 11. While this may not be considered a common or popular name compared to other names in the U.S., it is still unique and holds its own distinct charm within the American naming landscape. These figures suggest that Shamala has been chosen as a name by parents who seek something less ordinary, contributing to the diversity of names found across the country each year.