Kabir is a name of Sanskrit origin, derived from the word "kavi," which means "poet" or "sage." It has been used throughout history to denote wisdom and intellect. The name Kabir has a rich history in Indian culture and literature.
One of the most notable figures associated with the name Kabir is the 15th-century poet-saint from Varanasi, India. This Kabir was a weaver by profession but gained immense popularity for his spiritual poems that transcended caste, creed, and religion. His verses emphasized devotion to one God, unity among different faiths, and disregard for rituals and superstitions. Today, Kabir's teachings continue to influence Indian philosophy and literature.
The name Kabir has also been popularized through various forms of art and media. In literature, it is often used as a character name in works like R.K. Narayan's "Malgudi Days" and Amitav Ghosh's "The Glass Palace." In cinema, Bollywood actor Shahid Kapoor was named Kabir by his parents.
In the English-speaking world, Kabir has been adopted as a unisex given name with growing popularity in recent years. It is often chosen for its unique sound, rich history, and powerful meaning. Despite its Indian origin, Kabir has transcended cultural boundaries and is now used globally.
Overall, Kabir is a name steeped in history, culture, and spirituality. Its meaning, "poet" or "sage," reflects the wisdom and intellect of those who bear it. Whether as an homage to the legendary poet-saint or simply for its unique sound, Kabir remains a distinctive and meaningful name choice.
The name Kabir experienced a significant increase in popularity over the years, with a steady rise from the late 1970s to a peak in recent years. The highest number of births recorded was in 2021 with 284 babies named Kabir.