Find out how popular the first name Anira has been for the last 22 years (from 2002 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Anira by gender

Based on the last 22 years of data, Anira is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 18 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Anira.

The history of the first name Anira

The name Anira has its roots in the Sanskrit language, originating from ancient India. It is derived from the Sanskrit word "anir," which means "life" or "breath." The name's earliest recorded use dates back to the Vedic period, around 1500 BCE to 500 BCE, when it was mentioned in various Hindu scriptures and texts.

Anira was a relatively uncommon name in ancient India, but it carried significant meaning and symbolism. In some Hindu traditions, it was believed that the name represented the essence of life and the vital force that sustains all living beings. This association with life and vitality made it a popular choice for parents who wished to bestow their child with blessings of good health and longevity.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Anira can be found in the Mahabharata, an ancient Indian epic poem dating back to the 8th century BCE. In this epic, Anira was the name of a minor character, a prince from the Kuru dynasty. While not a central figure, the inclusion of the name in such a revered text highlights its antiquity and cultural significance.

Throughout the centuries, several notable individuals have borne the name Anira. One such person was Anira Devi (1856-1924), an Indian princess and social reformer from the princely state of Cooch Behar. She played a pivotal role in promoting women's education and advocating for social reforms during the British Raj era.

Another historical figure with the name Anira was Anira Basu (1908-1996), a renowned Indian artist and sculptor. Hailing from Bengal, she was known for her intricate terracotta sculptures that depicted scenes from rural life and Hindu mythology. Her works are celebrated for their attention to detail and artistic mastery.

In the realm of literature, Anira Mukherjee (1926-2018) was a prominent Bengali author and poet. Her writings often explored themes of love, nature, and the human condition. She received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Sahitya Akademi Award, for her contributions to Bengali literature.

Anira Ghosh (1932-2018) was a respected Indian classical dancer and choreographer. She was instrumental in preserving and promoting the Odissi dance form, one of the eight classical dance styles of India. Her performances and teachings helped to ensure the continuation of this ancient art form.

Lastly, Anira Rahman (born 1985) is a contemporary Bangladeshi singer and songwriter. Known for her soulful voice and poetic lyrics, she has gained recognition both nationally and internationally for her contributions to the music industry. Her songs often explore themes of love, spirituality, and social issues.

While the name Anira may not be as prevalent today as it once was, its rich history and connection to ancient Sanskrit roots make it a unique and meaningful choice for parents seeking a name with cultural significance and depth.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Anira was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Anira, please contact us.

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