Find out how popular the first name Kal has been for the last 50 years (from 1975 to 2024) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Kal by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Kal is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2024, there were 60 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Kal.

The history of the first name Kal

The name Kal has its origins in the Sanskrit language, an ancient Indo-Aryan language that originated in the Indian subcontinent. It is believed to have been derived from the word "kala," which means "time" or "death." In Hinduism, Kal or Kala is often personified as the lord of time and death, and is associated with the cycle of birth and rebirth.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Kal can be found in the ancient Hindu text, the Mahabharata. In this epic, Kal is mentioned as a powerful deity who represents the inevitability of death and the passage of time. The name has also been referenced in other Hindu scriptures, such as the Puranas and the Upanishads.

Throughout history, several notable figures have borne the name Kal. One of the most famous was Kal Bhairav, a fierce manifestation of the Hindu deity Shiva, who is revered as the destroyer of evil and the protector of the righteous. Kal Bhairav is often depicted with a fearsome appearance, carrying a sword and a noose, symbolizing the inevitable cycle of life and death.

Another prominent figure with the name Kal was Kal Naag, a mythical serpent king who is believed to have ruled the underworld in Hindu mythology. According to legends, Kal Naag was a powerful and cunning being who possessed immense strength and wisdom.

In the realm of art and literature, Kal Krishan Sharma (1866-1953) was a renowned Kashmiri poet and writer who made significant contributions to the literary landscape of the region. His works explored themes of love, spirituality, and the human condition, earning him recognition as one of the greatest poets of his time.

Moving to more recent history, Kal Penn (born 1977) is an American actor, producer, and former White House staff member. He gained widespread recognition for his role as Kumar Patel in the popular "Harold & Kumar" film series, which explored themes of friendship, identity, and cultural stereotypes.

Lastly, Kal Yafai (born 1989) is a British professional boxer who has held multiple world titles in the super-flyweight division. Known for his tenacity and skill in the ring, Yafai has made a significant impact in the world of boxing, earning respect and admiration from fans and opponents alike.

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

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

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