Baby Names by Nakshatra
Namakaran (नामकरण) made simple. Pick your child's birth nakshatra to see the traditional auspicious starting syllables and a curated list of boy and girl names with meanings.
How Naamkaran by nakshatra works
In the Vedic Naamkaran (naming) tradition, a baby's name is chosen to harmonise with the birth star. Each of the 27 nakshatras is divided into four quarters called padas, and every pada is assigned an auspicious starting syllable known as the naamakshar. A name that begins with the syllable for the child's nakshatra and pada is considered to bring the sound of the name into tune with the Moon's position at birth.
This custom has been followed in Hindu families for generations. The syllable is the traditional guide; the meaning and blessing you attach to the name are just as important, which is why families often choose a name that both starts with the right sound and carries a beautiful meaning.
How to use this tool
Pick your child's birth nakshatra above to see its auspicious starting syllables along with a curated list of boy and girl names and their meanings. You can shortlist a few favourites that begin with the prescribed sound and then choose the one whose meaning you love most.
If you do not yet know the birth nakshatra, it is determined by the Moon's position at the exact time and place of birth, generate a free Kundli first to find the nakshatra (and its pada), then return here to pick names. Once named, you can look up a shubh muhurat for the naming ceremony itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are Hindu baby names chosen by nakshatra?
In the Vedic Naamkaran (naming) tradition, a child's birth nakshatra is divided into four quarters called padas. Each pada is assigned an auspicious starting syllable (naamakshar). A name beginning with that syllable is considered harmonious with the child's birth star.
What is a naamakshar?
Naamakshar is the specific starting sound prescribed for a name based on the nakshatra and pada at the time of birth. Choosing a name that begins with this sound is a long-standing custom in Hindu families.
Do I need the exact birth time?
The nakshatra (and its pada) is determined by the Moon's position at birth, which needs the date, time and place. If you already know the nakshatra, you can pick it directly here. Otherwise, generate a free Kundli to find it first.