The name Esha has its origins in Sanskrit, an ancient Indo-Aryan language that served as the root for many modern Indian languages. It is derived from the Sanskrit word "ish," which means "to wish" or "to desire." The name gained popularity in ancient India, where it was given to girls with the hope that their desires and aspirations would be fulfilled.

One of the earliest recorded mentions of the name Esha can be found in the Vedas, the oldest scriptures of Hinduism. In the Rig Veda, which dates back to around 1500-1200 BCE, there are references to an ancient goddess named Isha, who was associated with fertility and abundance. This goddess was believed to grant blessings and fulfill the wishes of her devotees, which may have contributed to the popularity of the name Esha.

In the epic Mahabharata, which is believed to have been composed between the 8th and 4th centuries BCE, there is a character named Esha Rishi, who was a celebrated sage and spiritual teacher. His teachings and wisdom were highly regarded in ancient Indian culture, further solidifying the name's association with wisdom and enlightenment.

Throughout history, several notable figures have borne the name Esha. One of the earliest was Esha Nand (1493-1582), a renowned Hindu philosopher and poet who made significant contributions to the Bhakti movement, a spiritual renaissance that swept across India during the medieval period.

Another prominent figure was Esha Poornima (1863-1936), a pioneering Indian social reformer and educator who fought against the practice of child marriage and advocated for women's education. Her efforts played a pivotal role in shaping the modern Indian education system.

In the 20th century, Esha Gupta (born 1985) gained fame as a successful Indian model and actress, known for her roles in Bollywood films and her advocacy for animal rights. Her name has helped to popularize the name Esha among modern Indian parents.

Esha Deol (born 1981) is another notable individual, as she is a renowned Indian film actress and producer who hails from the renowned Deol family, a prominent dynasty in the Indian film industry. Her name has also contributed to the name's widespread recognition and use.

Esha Khanna (born 1978) is an accomplished Indian-American journalist and news anchor, who has worked for prestigious news organizations such as CNBC and Bloomberg. Her career success and public profile have further cemented the name's association with intelligence and accomplishment.