How to choose
between a modern and traditional Indian baby name

When it comes to Indian baby names there is a stark contrast between very modern names and traditional baby names. For example traditional Indian names will be longer, more complex and have more syllables like Saraswati, or Dharmendra.

Modern baby names tend to be shorter, have fewer syllables and have more resemblances to Anglo or English names. For example Bela, Dillon, Tara and Neil can all be Indian or English names.  If you are in two minds about whether to choose a modern or traditional baby name then take a look at our tips below to help you decide.

Your preferences

Discuss with your partner and see what type of names they like, look through lists and research online and if you have any favourite names keep them on file.

Get some advice

Speak to family and friends if you wish, an alternative perspective may give you more inspiration. Are there any trends within your extended families particularly with you or your partners nieces, nephews, what type of names have their parents gone for?

Find out meanings

Most of the time parents end up choosing a name for their baby solely based on its meaning for example you may find a traditional Indian name that has a lovely meaning or you end up choosing a name that has a very romantic meaning and it happens to be a modern name. Finding out the meanings of both your favourite baby name choices will definitely help to narrow down your list.

Be resourceful

If you are still undecided about which option to go with why not compromise and be resourceful at the same time, use one traditional name as a middle name and one modern name as the first or vice versa. This way you don’t completely have to decide and you get the best of both. If this doesn’t work for you then you can always save one name for number two?

Wait for the arrival

Nine times out of ten parents always wait for the arrival of their child before finally deciding on the name. Your child’s aura, personality and features will definitely be the deciding factor on which name you end up choosing.

Read: 10 Indian celebrity names you will want to steal