Malalai is an uncommon but significant female given name of Pashtun origin, meaning "angel" or "night beauty". It is primarily used in Afghanistan and among the Pashtun diaspora worldwide. The name gained prominence due to Malalai of Maiwand, a national heroine of Afghanistan who inspired her countrymen during the Second Anglo-Afghan War (1878-1880). Despite its historic resonance, Malalai remains relatively uncommon today, perhaps owing to its regional specificity and strong cultural ties.
"Malalai was given to five newborns in 2016."