Kedar is a unique and distinctive name of Indian origin, derived from the Sanskrit word "kedara" which means "gateway to the mountain". It is often associated with Mount Kedarnath in the Himalayas, one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage destinations.
The name Kedar has a rich history and cultural significance. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism, resides on Mount Kedarnath as a manifestation called Kedareshwar. The mountain is considered sacred by Hindus and thousands of devotees visit it every year during the summer months for spiritual purposes.
Kedar was also the name of a historical dynasty that ruled over a region in northern India between the 6th and 10th centuries AD. The rulers of this dynasty were known as the Kadambas, and they played an important role in shaping the cultural landscape of Karnataka state in southern India.
In addition to its Indian origins, Kedar has also been adopted by other cultures around the world. In the Middle East, for example, it is often used as a name for boys and has gained popularity in recent years due to its unique sound and meaning.
Overall, Kedar is a powerful and meaningful name with deep roots in Indian history and culture. It is a name that embodies strength, spirituality, and ancient wisdom, making it an excellent choice for parents looking for a distinctive and significant name for their child.
Based on the provided statistics, the name Kedar has seen a fluctuating popularity in the United States over the past five decades. The earliest data point is from 1972, with 7 births that year. This number remained relatively low and consistent until the late 1980s and early 1990s when there was a significant increase in popularity.
In 1997, Kedar experienced its peak popularity with 30 births that year. This marked a substantial rise from the previous years and indicated a growing trend for the name. The following years maintained this higher level of popularity, with numbers ranging between the mid-twenties to mid-thirties until around 2004.
After 2004, there was another noticeable shift in popularity. The number of births dropped significantly, reaching as low as single digits by 2016 and 2017. However, there has been a recent resurgence since 2018, with numbers fluctuating between 6 and 11 births per year up until the most recent data point in 2023.
Overall, despite these fluctuations, the name Kedar has maintained a consistent presence in the United States over this period. With a total of 540 births recorded since 1972, it can be considered a recognizable and established name choice.