Anjali is a feminine given name of Sanskrit origin, which means "grace" or "favor". It comes from the word 'anjali', which is composed of two parts: 'an' meaning 'towards' and 'jal' meaning 'to throw'. Thus, Anjali signifies the act of offering something with grace.
The name Anjali has a rich history in Indian culture and mythology. In Hindu mythology, Anjani was the monkey goddess who gave birth to Hanuman, the god monkey who is revered for his strength, courage, and devotion to Lord Rama. Therefore, Anjali is often considered as a symbol of divine favor and grace.
In India, it's customary to offer 'anjali' - a combination of flowers, rice, turmeric, and sandalwood powder - to God during puja (worship). This offering is made with reverence and humility, reflecting the essence of the name Anjali itself.
The name Anjali has gained international recognition due to its use in popular culture. For instance, it was used as the title for a Bollywood film released in 2005. The movie 'Anjaana Anjaani' translates to 'Unknown Unknown', highlighting the unpredictable nature of life's journey.
Today, Anjali is not only recognized and used within Indian communities worldwide but also by people who appreciate its meaning and sound irrespective of their cultural background. It has become a unisex name in recent times, although it is still more commonly associated with females.
The name Anjali experienced significant growth in popularity over time, with a notable surge starting around the late 1990s. The peak occurred in the years 1999 and 2000, with 202 and 230 births respectively. Since then, its popularity has steadily declined, reaching 73 births in 2023. Overall, there have been a total of 5681 babies named Anjali from 1964 to 2023.