Kartikeya Boy
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: kar-TIK-ay-uh /kɑːrˈtɪk.eɪ.ə/
Origin: Sanskrit; Hindu
Meaning: Sanskrit: Son of Kartik; Hindu: God of War
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Kartikeya has its roots in ancient Sanskrit, deriving from the term 'Kārtikeya' (कार्तिकेय), which is composed of 'Kārtika,' referring to the Hindu month of Kartika, and 'eya,' meaning 'born of' or 'son of.' The name is primarily associated with the Hindu god of war and victory, Kartikeya, who is also known as Skanda or Murugan in various traditions. This deity is often depicted as a youthful warrior and is revered in several texts, including the Mahabharata and the Puranas, which date back to the early centuries of the Common Era.
The etymology reflects both a connection to the lunar calendar and the divine lineage, as Kartikeya is considered the son of Shiva and Parvati, thus linking the name to significant mythological narratives in Hinduism. Historically, Kartikeya has been a prominent figure in Indian culture and religion, with references to him appearing in ancient scriptures and inscriptions.
His worship can be traced back to the Vedic period, and he gained prominence in various regional traditions across India, particularly in South India, where he is celebrated in festivals such as Thaipusam and Skanda Shashthi. The name Kartikeya has been immortalized in various forms of art, literature, and temple architecture, with numerous temples dedicated to him, such as the famous Murugan temples in Tamil Nadu, which date back to the medieval period.
Culturally, Kartikeya symbolizes valor, strength, and the triumph of good over evil, making him a significant figure in Hindu mythology. His associations with warfare and protection have led to his veneration among warriors and those seeking courage.
The name has also inspired various diminutives and related forms in different languages and regions, reflecting the adaptability and enduring legacy of this ancient name. The reverence for Kartikeya continues to resonate in contemporary practices and beliefs, highlighting his lasting impact on Indian culture and spirituality.
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Kartikeya was first seen in the United States in 2006. Kartikeya has ranked as high as #1414 nationally, which occurred in 2016, and has been most popular in . In the past 5 years the name Kartikeya has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Kartikeya
No state data available for this year.
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 2006 | 7 |
| 2010 | 7 |
| 2011 | 6 |
| 2012 | 6 |
| 2013 | 5 |
| 2015 | 6 |
| 2016 | 9 |
| 2017 | 6 |
| 2018 | 7 |
| 2019 | 7 |
| 2020 | 7 |
| 2021 | 8 |
| 2022 | 5 |
| 2023 | 6 |