Indra is a gender-neutral given name of Sanskrit origin, meaning "lord" or "chief." It is traditionally used in Hinduism and Buddhism as the name of the king of the gods in Hindu mythology. According to Hindu scriptures, Indra is known for his courage and bravery, serving as the leader of the devas (gods) against the asuras (demons).
The name Indra has a rich history dating back thousands of years. In the Rigveda, one of the oldest existing collections of Vedic hymns, Indra is mentioned prominently as the god of thunder, lightning, storms, rain, and war. He is also known for his fierce battle against Vritra, a serpent-like dragon who had swallowed all the waters of the world.
In Buddhism, Indra is revered as one of the four guardian kings (Caturmahārāja) who protect the four cardinal directions. He is often depicted holding a vajra (thunderbolt) and riding an elephant, symbolizing his power and authority.
While traditionally used in South Asian cultures, the name Indra has gained international popularity due to its unique sound and powerful meaning. It is now commonly found among people of various backgrounds who appreciate its significance and historical relevance.
The name Indra has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past few decades in the United States. Between 1995 and 2023, there have been a total of 101 babies named Indra at birth.
Initially, the number of births with this name was quite low, with only 5 births recorded each year between 1995 and 2010. However, starting from 2012, we began to observe an upward trend in the popularity of the name Indra.
In 2017 and 2018, there were 7 births each year, marking a notable increase compared to previous years. The most significant rise occurred between 2019 and 2022, with 13 births recorded in both years, indicating that the name Indra was gaining considerable traction among parents during this period.
The year 2020 saw a slight decrease in popularity, with only 8 births recorded. However, this trend reversed in 2021 and 2022, with 11 and 13 births respectively, showing that the name Indra remained popular even during these years.
In conclusion, while the name Indra started off as relatively uncommon, it has since gained significant popularity over time, with an impressive total of 101 babies named Indra between 1995 and 2023 in the United States.