Prayag is a name of Indian origin, derived from the ancient city of Prayaga, which is now known as Allahabad in Uttar Pradesh, India. The city is situated at the confluence of three sacred rivers: the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati.
The name Prayag itself means "the place of sacrifice" or "offering," reflecting the importance of the city as a holy site where Hindus perform rituals and offer prayers to the gods. Historically, Prayaga has been considered one of the four most sacred places in India, along with Mathura, Haridwar, and Ujjain.
The name Prayag is believed to have been given by King Rituparna, who founded the city and named it after the sacrifice he performed there. According to Hindu mythology, Prayaga was the site where Lord Brahma, the creator god, first performed a yajna (sacrifice) to create the universe.
Throughout history, Prayag has been an important center of pilgrimage for Hindus, attracting millions of devotees each year during the Magh Mela festival, which is held on the banks of the Sangam, the confluence of the three rivers. The city's strategic location and religious significance have made it a cultural and spiritual hub since ancient times.
Today, Prayag remains an important destination for Hindu pilgrims, and the name continues to evoke the rich history and cultural heritage of India's sacred cities. Although it may not be as widely known outside of India, Prayag is a name that carries deep significance and resonance among Hindus worldwide.
The name Prayag has seen a varied degree of popularity over the past decade in the United States. In 2006, there were 5 newborns given this name, which increased to 7 in 2012. However, the number of births decreased again to 5 in 2014 before rising to 6 in 2015 and reaching a peak of 9 in 2016. In 2017, the number of newborns named Prayag went down once more to 5.
Over this period, a total of 37 babies were given the name Prayag. This data shows that while the popularity of the name has fluctuated year by year, it has maintained a consistent presence in the United States over the past decade.