Narges (Persian: نرگس) is a Persian feminine given name, meaning "daffodil" or "narcissus" in Persian. The name is ultimately derived from Greek Narkissos (see Narcissus). In Persian culture, the narcissus flower symbolizes beauty, renewal, and the arrival of spring, and the name Narges carries these connotations. Etymology and Mythological Roots The Persian word narges comes via Greek Narkissos, which may be related to the Greek word narke ("numbness" or "sleep"), referring to the narcotic properties of the flower. In Greek mythology, Narcissus was a beautiful youth who fell in love with his own reflection and eventually died, transforming into the narcissus flower. This mythological association links the name to themes of vanity and tragedy as well as beauty. Historical and Literary Significance The name Narges appears in classical Persian literature, most notably in the Shahnameh, the national epic of Persia, where it is mentioned in connection with tales of love and heroism. Renowned Persian poets such as Hafez and Saadi have also used the word narges in their verses, often as a metaphor for a beloved's eyes, symbolizing purity and allure. This literary heritage has kept the name popular in Persian-speaking regions for centuries. Notable Bearers Notable individuals with thame name include Narges Abyar (born 1970), an Iranian film director and author; Narges Ashtari (born 1988), an Iranian-British activist; and Nargess Eskandari-Grünberg (born 1965), an Iranian-German politician. The Urdu variant Nargis was famously borne by Indian actress Nargis Dutt (1929–1981), a legend of Hindi cinema. Variant Forms The name has several cognates across languages: in Azerbaijani, Nərgiz; in Bashkir, Närkäs; in Urdu, Nargis; in French, Narcisse (feminine form Narcisse, which can also be masculine); in Spanish, Narcisa; and in Uzbek, Nargiza. All stem from the same rich mythological and poetic tradition. Meaning: “Narcissus,” “daffodil” Origin: Persian, ultimately Greek Type: First name, feminine Usage Regions: Iran, Pakistan, India, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, and among Persian-speaking and Muslim communities globally