Find out how popular the first name Diya has been for the last 33 years (from 1991 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Diya by gender

Based on the last 33 years of data, Diya is more commonly used as a female name, with approximately 100% of people named Diya being female.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 119 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Diya.

The history of the first name Diya

The name Diya originates from the Sanskrit language and has its roots in ancient Indian culture, dating back to the first millennium BCE. The word "diya" in Sanskrit means "lamp" or "light," and it is believed that the name was initially given to children with the wish for them to be a guiding light or source of illumination in the world.

In Hindu mythology, the diya or lamp holds significant symbolism. It represents the dispelling of darkness and ignorance, and the lighting of a diya is an essential part of many Hindu festivals and rituals. The name Diya is therefore closely associated with these spiritual and cultural traditions.

One of the earliest recorded mentions of the name Diya can be found in ancient Hindu texts, such as the Puranas, which are a collection of narratives and legends that date back to the first few centuries CE. However, it is likely that the name was in use even before these written records.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Diya. One of the earliest recorded examples is Diya Kumari (1835-1898), who was a Rajput princess and the last ruling monarch of the princely state of Sirmoor in present-day Himachal Pradesh, India.

Another important figure was Diya Avasthi (1901-1944), an Indian freedom fighter and revolutionary who actively participated in the Indian independence movement against British colonial rule. She was imprisoned multiple times for her involvement in the struggle for freedom.

In more recent times, Diya Mirza (born 1981) is an Indian actress, model, and producer who has appeared in several Bollywood films and is also known for her philanthropic work and advocacy for various social causes.

Diya Abdo (born 1983) is a Palestinian-American writer and academic, known for her work on gender, sexuality, and Arab feminism. Her book "Territories of Violence: Decolonial Feminism from the Diaspora" explores the intersections of race, gender, and colonialism.

Additionally, Diya Kamble (born 1988) is an Indian cricketer who has represented the national women's cricket team and is considered one of the best all-rounders in the sport's history.

These are just a few examples of individuals who have carried the name Diya throughout history, each leaving their mark in various fields and contributing to the rich tapestry of human endeavor.

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 Diya was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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