Find out how popular the first name Zila has been for the last 17 years (from 2008 to 2024) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Zila by gender

Based on the last 17 years of data, Zila is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2024, there were 11 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Zila.

The history of the first name Zila

The name Zila has its origins in the ancient Sanskrit language of India, dating back to around the 5th century BCE. It is derived from the Sanskrit word "zila," which means "rock" or "stone." This name was initially given to individuals who lived in rocky or mountainous regions, or who were known for their strength and resilience.

In ancient Hindu texts, such as the Mahabharata and the Puranas, there are references to characters with the name Zila, although they were often minor figures or side characters. One notable mention is in the Skanda Purana, where Zila is described as a devotee of Lord Shiva, known for his unwavering faith and devotion.

The earliest recorded examples of the name Zila can be found in inscriptions and historical records from the Gupta Empire, which ruled over much of northern India between the 4th and 6th centuries CE. During this period, the name was particularly popular among the warrior classes and those associated with the earth or mining industries.

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals who bore the name Zila. One such person was Zila Khan, a 16th-century Afghan warrior and military commander who served under the Mughal Emperor Akbar. He was known for his bravery and skill in battle, and played a crucial role in several military campaigns.

Another famous Zila was Zila Bai, an 18th-century Indian classical dancer and courtesan from the Lucknow region. She was renowned for her grace and expertise in the Kathak dance form, and was a celebrated performer in the courts of the Nawabs of Awadh.

In the 19th century, Zila Vish was a prominent Indian social reformer and educationist. She dedicated her life to promoting education and empowerment for women, establishing several schools and advocating for women's rights in a time when such efforts were rare.

The name Zila also has a connection to the Buddhist tradition. Zila Pandit was a 10th-century Buddhist scholar and teacher from Kashmir, known for his contributions to the study of Buddhist philosophy and his translations of important Sanskrit texts.

Finally, Zila Baksh was a 20th-century Pakistani author and poet, celebrated for her works in both Urdu and Punjabi literature. Her poetry often explored themes of love, nature, and social commentary, and she was widely regarded as one of the most influential voices of her time.

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

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

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