Candra is a unique and captivating feminine name of Indonesian origin. It is derived from the Sanskrit word "Chandrakanta," which translates to "the moonlight gemstone." The name Candra itself means "moon" in Sanskrit, reflecting its celestial inspiration.
The name Candra has been used predominantly in Indonesia, but it has gained international recognition due to its beauty and uniqueness. It is often associated with elegance, grace, and a certain mystical allure, much like the moon itself. In many cultures, the moon symbolizes renewal, fertility, and cycles of change, which could be seen as qualities that Candra embodies.
Historically, the name Candra has been popular among Indonesian royalty and aristocracy. It was often given to daughters born during specific lunar phases or on significant lunar-related occasions. This further reinforces the deep connection between the name Candra and the moon in Indonesian culture and history.
In literature and arts, Candra has been used as a character name, most notably in the Indonesian novel "Sitti Nurbaya" by Marah Roesli. The character Candra is portrayed as wise, enigmatic, and deeply connected to nature and its cycles.
While not widely known in all parts of the world, the name Candra stands out for its rarity, uniqueness, and rich cultural significance. It offers a compelling choice for parents seeking an uncommon yet meaningful name for their daughter.
The name Candra experienced a notable increase in popularity from the late 1940s to the mid-1970s, with a significant peak occurring between 1967 and 1974. During this period, the number of annual births fluctuated but generally remained high, ranging from a low of 18 births in 1971 to a high of 54 births in 1974. However, after 1974, the popularity of the name Candra began to decline rapidly, with fewer than 60 births per year recorded between 1975 and 1993. The trend continued into the new millennium, with less than 20 births per year from 1994 onwards, except for a brief spike in 2000 with 19 births. Since then, the name Candra has become quite rare, with fewer than 10 births per year recorded from 2005 to 2013. In total, there were 1815 births of the name Candra recorded over this period.