Find out how popular the first name Nilla has been for the last 12 years (from 2008 to 2019) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Nilla by gender

Based on the last 12 years of data, Nilla is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2019, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Nilla.

The history of the first name Nilla

The name Nilla has its origins in the Sanskrit language, derived from the word "nila," which means "blue" or "dark." This name can be traced back to ancient India, where it was initially used as a descriptive term for the deep blue hues found in nature, such as the vibrant colors of the sky or the rich tones of gemstones.

In Hindu mythology, Nilla is associated with Lord Krishna, one of the most revered deities in the Bhagavad Gita, an ancient Sanskrit scripture. The name is often mentioned in verses describing Krishna's divine form, adorned with the radiant blue color symbolizing his divine grace and transcendental nature.

The earliest recorded use of the name Nilla can be found in ancient Sanskrit texts and inscriptions dating back to the 5th century BCE. One notable figure from this era was Nilla, a renowned philosopher and scholar from the Mauryan Empire, known for his contributions to the study of Vedic literature and the Sanskrit language.

During the medieval period, the name Nilla gained popularity among the ruling elite and nobility in various regions of India. One prominent figure was Queen Nilla Devi, the wife of King Vikramaditya VI of the Chalukya dynasty, who ruled in the 12th century CE. She was renowned for her patronage of the arts and her support for the construction of temples and educational institutions.

In the realm of literature, the name Nilla is associated with the celebrated Tamil poet and philosopher, Nilla Theru, who lived in the 9th century CE. His works, including the influential "Nillatheru Arathanai," explored themes of spirituality, love, and the human condition, leaving a lasting impact on Tamil literature.

Another notable figure bearing the name Nilla was the 16th-century Mughal princess, Nilla Begum. She was the daughter of Emperor Akbar and played a significant role in the cultural and intellectual life of the Mughal court, known for her patronage of artists, poets, and scholars.

While the name Nilla is rooted in Indian history and culture, it has also found its way into other parts of the world, though with varying spellings and pronunciations. In modern times, the name has gained popularity across different cultures and regions, carrying with it the symbolic associations of beauty, grace, and the deep blue hues that have long been revered in ancient traditions.

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

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

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