Karthikeyan is a male given name of Indian origin, particularly from the state of Tamil Nadu. It is derived from the Tamil word "Kaarthi Keyan", which means "one who has attained the goal or objective". The name Karthikeyan is composed of two parts: "Kaarthi" and "Keyan". Kaarthi refers to the star Krithika, also known as Alpha Trianguli in Western astronomy. Keyan means "having achieved" or "attained".
The name has a rich history rooted in Hindu mythology. According to legend, Karthikeyan is one of the six Krittikas who are the stars of the Pleiades constellation. They are the daughters of King Prajapati and are considered to be the mothers of the gods Agni, Indra, and Varuna. In some versions of the story, Karthikeyan is the name of Lord Murugan, the god of war, victory, and arts in South Indian Hinduism, who is also known as Kartikeya.
In addition to its mythological significance, the name Karthikeyan has been popularized by several notable individuals. One of the most well-known bearers of this name is Karthik Shivakumar, a prominent actor in the Tamil film industry. Another notable figure is Karthikeyan Murali, a former Indian cricketer who played for the Indian national team.
In modern times, Karthikeyan has become a popular choice among parents seeking unique and meaningful names for their sons. Its association with celestial bodies and mythological figures gives it a sense of timelessness and grandeur, making it an attractive option for those looking for a name with deep roots in history and culture. However, despite its growing popularity, Karthikeyan remains relatively uncommon outside of South India, allowing it to retain a distinct and unique identity.
In 2016 alone, there were 6 individuals named Karthikeyan born annually. Overall, this results in a total of 6 births with that name.