Find out how popular the first name Tamala has been for the last 32 years (from 1974 to 2005) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Tamala by gender

Based on the last 32 years of data, Tamala is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2005, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Tamala.

The history of the first name Tamala

The given name Tamala is believed to have originated from the Indian subcontinent, specifically from the Sanskrit language. It is derived from the word "tamala," which means "lotus" or "lotus flower." The lotus is a sacred flower in Hindu and Buddhist cultures, symbolizing purity, enlightenment, and spiritual awakening.

While the origins of the name can be traced back to ancient Sanskrit texts, the earliest known recorded use of Tamala as a personal name is not well-documented. However, it is thought to have gained popularity in the Indian subcontinent during the medieval period, around the 10th to 12th centuries.

One of the earliest known historical figures with the name Tamala was a 12th-century Indian poet and scholar from the Vijayanagara Empire in present-day Karnataka, India. She was renowned for her contributions to Kannada literature and is considered one of the most influential female writers of her time.

In the 16th century, Tamala Devi was a prominent figure in the Rajput kingdom of Mewar, now located in the Indian state of Rajasthan. She was the wife of Maharana Pratap Singh I, a legendary Rajput warrior-king who fought against the Mughal Empire.

During the 17th century, Tamala Kali was a celebrated Bengali poet and songwriter who composed devotional lyrics and mystic poetry. Her works are still widely recited and celebrated in Bengal, especially during religious festivals.

In more recent history, Tamala Jones is an American actress and model, born in 1974. She is best known for her roles in popular television series such as Castle, Banshee, and Pitch.

Another notable figure with the name Tamala is Tamala Madlala, a South African politician and activist who served as the Deputy Minister of Health in South Africa from 2004 to 2008. She was born in 1953 and has been a vocal advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention.

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

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

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