Suraj is a name of Indian origin, derived from the Sanskrit word "Surya" which means "sun". It is a popular name among people of Indian descent and has been used for centuries in various forms across different languages.
The name Suraj is traditionally given to boys, although it can also be used as a unisex name. In Hindu culture, the sun god Surya is considered one of the most important deities, symbolizing energy, wisdom, and growth. Therefore, naming a child Suraj is seen as bestowing upon them qualities such as brightness, warmth, and vitality.
The history of the name Suraj dates back to ancient India where it was used among royalty and nobility. Legend has it that King Surajmal of Jaisalmer was so named because his birth coincided with a solar eclipse, signifying his destiny as a powerful ruler. Since then, many other notable figures have borne this name, including Surajkund, an architectural marvel built in the 10th century, and Surajit Banerjee, a renowned Indian physicist.
In modern times, Suraj remains a beloved and popular choice among parents seeking unique yet meaningful names for their children. It has also gained international recognition due to its use by celebrities such as actor Suraj Sharma who starred in "Life of Pi," further cementing its place in global pop culture. Overall, the name Suraj stands as a beautiful tribute to India's rich cultural heritage and the eternal power of the sun.
Between 1975 and 2023, the name Suraj was given to a total of 1078 babies born in the United States. The popularity of this name varied over the years. In the early years, from 1975 to 1980, there were fewer than 10 births per year with this name.
However, starting from 1987, we see a significant increase in the number of babies named Suraj each year. The peak popularity was reached between 1994 and 2003, with over 30 births per year during these years. In fact, 1995 saw the highest number of babies named Suraj, with 44 births.
After this peak period, the popularity of the name began to decline steadily. Between 2006 and 2023, fewer than 28 babies were named Suraj each year. Despite this decrease in popularity, the name has maintained a consistent presence in the United States over the decades.
In recent years, from 2019 to 2023, there have been fewer than 17 births per year with the name Suraj. Nonetheless, it remains a unique and distinctive name choice for parents looking for something different for their children.