Candra is a unique and captivating feminine name of Indonesian origin. It is derived from the Sanskrit word "Chandrakanta," which translates to "the moonlight gemstone." The name Candra itself means "moon" in Sanskrit, reflecting its celestial inspiration.
The name Candra has been used predominantly in Indonesia, but it has gained international recognition due to its beauty and uniqueness. It is often associated with elegance, grace, and a certain mystical allure, much like the moon itself. In many cultures, the moon symbolizes renewal, fertility, and cycles of change, which could be seen as qualities that Candra embodies.
Historically, the name Candra has been popular among Indonesian royalty and aristocracy. It was often given to daughters born during specific lunar phases or on significant lunar-related occasions. This further reinforces the deep connection between the name Candra and the moon in Indonesian culture and history.
In literature and arts, Candra has been used as a character name, most notably in the Indonesian novel "Sitti Nurbaya" by Marah Roesli. The character Candra is portrayed as wise, enigmatic, and deeply connected to nature and its cycles.
While not widely known in all parts of the world, the name Candra stands out for its rarity, uniqueness, and rich cultural significance. It offers a compelling choice for parents seeking an uncommon yet meaningful name for their daughter.
The name Candra has had a varied history of popularity in the United States over the past seven decades. From 1946 to 1959, there were fewer than 20 births each year with the name Candra. However, starting from 1962, we see a significant increase in the number of babies named Candra.
The years 1967 and 1968 saw the highest number of newborn girls named Candra, with 21 births each year. This popularity continued throughout the 1970s, with over 50 births annually between 1974 and 1980. The peak of popularity for the name Candra was reached in 1983 and 1984, with 66 and 87 births respectively.
Interestingly, after these two years, there was a decline in the number of babies named Candra. From 1990 onwards, fewer than 50 girls were named Candra each year. This trend has continued into the 21st century, with only a handful of births with the name Candra recorded annually since 2003.
Overall, there have been a total of 1815 babies named Candra in the United States between 1946 and 2013. While the name was quite popular for a period in the late 1970s and early 1980s, it has since declined in usage. Nonetheless, Candra remains a unique and memorable name with its own place in American naming history.