All about the name

Skanda

Male

« Skanda is an ancient Indian boy's name with a rich history. Derived from the Sanskrit word "Skand," meaning "to leap" or "to jump," it is revered as the god of war, courage, and victory in Hindu lore, known for his ability to leap great distances. »

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Meaning, origin, history

Skanda is a unique and ancient Indian boy's name with a rich history and profound meaning. Derived from the Sanskrit word "Skand," which translates to "to leap" or "to jump," Skanda is believed to be one of the earliest names in Indian mythology. In Hindu lore, Skanda is revered as the god of war, courage, and victory. He is often depicted with six heads and twelve arms, each holding a different weapon or gesture symbolizing his immense power and wisdom. Skanda's most notable attribute is his ability to leap great distances, which is reflected in his name. The story of Skanda begins with his parents, Lord Shiva, the destroyer god, and Parvati, the goddess of love and fertility. According to legend, when Parvati needed someone to protect her from a demon named Taraka, she created Skanda out of her forehead and assigned him the task of defeating the monster. Skanda, true to his name, leaped into battle with extraordinary valor and eventually defeated Taraka. This victory earned him the title "Karttikeya," which means "lord of the Krittikas" or the Pleiades star cluster. Skanda's triumph over Taraka also led to his recognition as the commander-in-chief of the celestial army. Today, Skanda continues to be a popular choice among Indian parents seeking unique and meaningful names for their sons. While its origins are deeply rooted in ancient mythology, the name Skanda carries a universal message of courage, power, and victory that transcends cultural boundaries.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Skanda since 1880

Total births
151
Total since 1880
Peak year
2023
16 births
in 2023
16
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+18%
vs previous 5 years