Neelam is a unique and beautiful female given name of Indian origin. It is derived from the Sanskrit word "Nila," which means "blue." In Hindu mythology, Neelam is associated with the gemstone lapis lazuli, which is indeed blue in color.
The name Neelam has a rich history and cultural significance in India. It is often given to daughters as it is believed to bring prosperity and good fortune into their lives. Additionally, the gemstone Neelam is considered sacred in Hinduism, associated with the planet Saturn, and is worn as jewelry by many women for its protective powers.
Neelam is also a popular name among Muslims in India, as it means "blue" in Arabic as well. In Islamic culture, blue is the color of the sky and the ocean, representing vastness, depth, and spirituality.
Today, Neelam continues to be a beloved name among families in India and around the world who appreciate its unique sound, beautiful meaning, and rich cultural heritage. Despite its popularity, it remains a distinct and uncommon name outside of South Asia, making it an excellent choice for parents looking for something distinctive yet meaningful for their daughter.
In summary, Neelam is a captivating female given name of Indian origin that means "blue." It is associated with the gemstone lapis lazuli and holds significant cultural and spiritual importance in both Hindu and Islamic traditions. With its unique sound and beautiful meaning, Neelam makes an excellent choice for parents seeking a distinctive yet meaningful name for their daughter.
Here are some interesting statistics about the name Neelam in the United States:
Over the past five decades, from 1971 to 2023, there have been a total of 315 babies named Neelam born in the United States. This demonstrates that while not extremely popular, the name has maintained a consistent presence among newborns during this period.
The number of births with the name Neelam has varied from year to year, with some peaks and valleys. The most notable peak occurred in 1990, with 27 births, which was more than three times higher than the previous highest year, 1989, with 18 births.
The years with the lowest number of Neelam births were spread out over time: 5 births each occurred in 1971, 1975, and 2011. However, more recently, there have been two peaks within the last five years – 10 births each in 2017 and 2023.
These statistics show that while Neelam has not been a consistently common name in the United States, it has had periods of popularity and continues to be used today.