The name Avani is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Avani', which means 'earth' or 'Mother Earth'. This name has its roots in ancient Hindu culture and mythology. It is believed to have been in use since the Vedic period, which dates back to around 1500-500 BCE.

In Hindu scriptures, Avani is one of the names used to refer to the goddess Prithvi, the personification of the Earth. This name is often associated with fertility, nourishment, and the abundance of nature. The name Avani is also mentioned in various ancient Hindu texts, such as the Puranas and the Upanishads.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Avani is in the Mahabharata, a renowned Hindu epic from ancient India. In the epic, Avani is mentioned as the name of a sage who played a significant role in the events of the story.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Avani. One of the most famous was Avani Sundari Devi (1858-1924), a prominent Indian social reformer and activist who fought for women's rights and education in Bengal.

Another notable Avani was Avani Chaturvedi (born 1994), an Indian Air Force officer who became one of the first women fighter pilots in the Indian military in 2018.

Avani Lekhara (born 1997) is an Indian Paralympic athlete who won a gold medal in shooting at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics, making her the first Indian woman to win a Paralympic gold medal.

Avani Rai (born 1994) is an Indian actress and model who has appeared in various Bollywood films and television shows.

AvaniBangia (born 1990) is an Indian-American author and entrepreneur known for her work in promoting diversity and inclusion in the publishing industry.

The name Avani continues to be popular in various parts of India and among the Indian diaspora around the world, carrying with it the rich cultural and mythological significance of its origins.