Puja Girl
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: POO-jah /ˈpuːdʒə/
Origin: Sanskrit; Hindi
Meaning: Sanskrit: worship; Hindi: prayer
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Puja has its roots in the Sanskrit language, where it means 'worship' or 'prayer.' The term is derived from the verb 'puj,' which signifies the act of reverence or adoration, particularly in a religious context. This etymological origin reflects the cultural significance of the name within Hindu traditions, where puja is a common practice involving rituals and offerings to deities.
The name has been adopted in various forms across different Indian languages, maintaining its core meaning related to devotion and spirituality. Historically, the concept of puja has been integral to Hindu religious practices for centuries, with references found in ancient texts such as the Vedas and Puranas, which date back to the early centuries of the Common Era.
The practice of puja has evolved over time, encompassing a wide range of rituals and ceremonies that vary by region and community. Notable figures in Hindu mythology, such as deities like Lakshmi and Durga, are often the focus of puja, reinforcing the name's association with divine worship and cultural heritage.
Culturally, the name Puja resonates with themes of devotion, spirituality, and community. It is often given to girls with the hope that they embody qualities of reverence and piety.
The name's enduring presence in Indian culture is also reflected in its usage in literature and art, where the act of worship is celebrated as a vital aspect of life. While diminutive forms or variations of the name may exist, Puja itself remains a significant identifier, symbolizing a connection to religious practices and cultural identity.
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Puja was first seen in the United States in 1975. Puja has ranked as high as #1121 nationally, which occurred in 1988, and has been most popular in California, Illinois, New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. In the past 5 years the name Puja has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Puja (2003)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| NY | 6 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1975 | 7 |
| 1976 | 6 |
| 1977 | 12 |
| 1978 | 8 |
| 1979 | 11 |
| 1980 | 21 |
| 1981 | 19 |
| 1982 | 28 |
| 1983 | 19 |
| 1984 | 43 |
| 1985 | 37 |
| 1986 | 31 |
| 1987 | 31 |
| 1988 | 44 |
| 1989 | 39 |
| 1990 | 34 |
| 1991 | 43 |
| 1992 | 28 |
| 1993 | 37 |
| 1994 | 24 |
| 1995 | 32 |
| 1996 | 24 |
| 1997 | 26 |
| 1998 | 26 |
| 1999 | 27 |
| 2000 | 24 |
| 2001 | 12 |
| 2002 | 17 |
| 2003 | 20 |
| 2004 | 14 |
| 2005 | 14 |
| 2006 | 14 |
| 2007 | 10 |
| 2008 | 8 |
| 2010 | 7 |
| 2012 | 8 |
| 2013 | 6 |
| 2015 | 7 |