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.
"Indra saw a consistent increase in popularity from 5 births per year between 1995 and 2015, jumping to 7 births in 2017 and 2018, then sharply rising to double digits from 2019 onwards, peaking at 13 births in both 2019 and 2022. By 2023, the name Indra had seen a total of 101 births."