Indra
IN-DRAH
Indra is the king of the Devas (gods) and ruler of Svarga (heaven) in Hindu mythology. He wields the thunderbolt weapon Vajra and is associated with thunder, lightning, storms, and rain. As the chief deity of the Rigveda, Indra is one of the most celebrated and complex figures in all of Hindu scripture, embodying kingly power, courage, and cosmic authority.
At a glance
The name of the mighty king of gods in Hindu mythology, associated with thunder, lightning, and royal power, and one of the most celebrated names in the Rigveda.
Etymology & History
Derived from the Sanskrit root 'ind' meaning to be powerful or to rule, with some scholars connecting it to 'indu' meaning a drop, referring to the Soma drink sacred to Indra in Vedic ritual. The name is ancient, appearing throughout the oldest layers of Vedic Sanskrit literature. The Proto-Indo-European cognate is linked to concepts of force and vitality.
Cultural Significance
Indra is the most hymned deity in the entire Rigveda, with more verses dedicated to him than to any other god, reflecting his supreme importance in Vedic religion. He defeated the dragon Vritra to release the cosmic waters and is the archetypal warrior-king deity. Over time, as Vaishnavism and Shaivism rose to prominence, Indra's status declined in popular Hinduism and he is sometimes depicted as arrogant. Nevertheless, as a given name, Indra carries immense historical and royal gravitas. Indra Nooyi's global prominence has also given the name modern currency.
Famous people named Indra
Indra
The king of the Devas in Hindu mythology, wielder of the thunderbolt Vajra, and ruler of the heavens, featured extensively across the Rigveda and Puranas.
Indra Nooyi
Former CEO of PepsiCo and one of the most powerful businesswomen in the world, bringing modern recognition to this ancient name.
Frequently Asked Questions
Names like Indra
Indrajit
“Conqueror of Indra”
Indrajit is composed of 'Indra' (the king of gods in Hindu mythology) and 'jit' (conqueror), meaning 'conqueror of Indra' or 'one who has defeated the king of gods'. This was the epithet of Meghnad, the son of the demon king Ravana, who famously defeated Indra in battle.
Ishan
“Sun and Lord Shiva”
Ishan is a Sanskrit name with multiple layers of meaning. It primarily refers to the northeast direction, which in Hindu cosmology is considered the most auspicious and divine direction, associated with Lord Shiva. Ishan is also used as an epithet for Lord Shiva himself. Additionally, the name carries associations with the sun and with light more broadly, making it a name that speaks of divine radiance, auspiciousness, and spiritual protection. The variant spelling Ishaan is also widely used.
Where you'll find Indra
Indra shows up in these curated collections across Namekin.