Find out how popular the first name Padma has been for the last 35 years (from 1988 to 2022) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Padma by gender

Based on the last 35 years of data, Padma is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2022, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Padma.

The history of the first name Padma

The name Padma is of Sanskrit origin and has roots dating back to ancient India. It is derived from the Sanskrit word "padma," which means "lotus flower." The lotus has held significant symbolism in Hindu and Buddhist cultures, representing purity, beauty, and spiritual awakening.

In Hindu mythology, the lotus is closely associated with the deities Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and Brahma, the creator god. The name Padma was often given to girls born in devout Hindu families as a way to honor these divine connections and bestow blessings of prosperity and spiritual enlightenment.

One of the earliest recorded mentions of the name Padma can be found in the ancient Hindu text, the Mahabharata, where it is mentioned as the name of a celestial nymph. In Buddhist scriptures, such as the Lotus Sutra, the lotus flower is a central symbol, and the name Padma is often associated with female Buddhist deities and female disciples of the Buddha.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have carried the name Padma. One of the earliest recorded instances is Padma Sambhava, also known as the "Lotus-Born," who was a revered Buddhist master and spiritual leader in the 8th century CE. He is credited with establishing Buddhism in Tibet and is considered a significant figure in Tibetan Buddhist tradition.

Another famous bearer of the name was Padma Shri, an Indian writer and social activist who lived from 1917 to 1997. She was a recipient of the Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian honors, for her contributions to literature and social reform.

In the realm of science, Padma Deshmukh (1917-2013) was an Indian microbiologist and biochemist who made significant contributions to the study of plant viruses and their impact on agriculture.

Padma Lakshmi, born in 1970, is a contemporary American author, actress, and television host. She is best known for her work as a host on the popular cooking competition show "Top Chef."

Padma Bhushan, born in 1931, was an Indian classical dancer and choreographer who was renowned for her contributions to the revival and promotion of the Odissi dance form. She was awarded the Padma Bhushan, one of India's highest civilian honors, for her artistic achievements.

These are just a few examples of the many notable individuals throughout history who have carried the name Padma, a name that carries rich cultural significance and associations with beauty, purity, and spiritual enlightenment.

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

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

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