Puja is a feminine given name widely used across the Indian subcontinent, particularly in Bengali, Nepali, Punjabi, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Tamil, and Telugu communities. The name is derived from the Sanskrit word pūjā (पूजा), meaning "honour, worship." Pūjā is the central ritual of reverence in Hinduism, involving offerings, prayers, and devotion to a deity.Etymology and MeaningThe root of the name is the Sanskrit element pūjā, which itself comes from the verb pūj meaning "to worship" or "to honor." The ritual of puja is a fundamental practice in Hindu worship, often performed in homes and temples. The name Puja thus carries profound religious significance, reflecting devotion and respect.Notable BearersWhile the brief does not provide specific notable bearers, the name is common among modern Indian women and has been used in popular culture, including in Bollywood films. A well-known bearer is Indian actress Pooja Hegde, who works in the Hindi, Telugu, and Tamil film industries.VariantsA common variant of Puja is Pooja, which is especially prevalent in Nepal and among Nepali-speaking communities. Transliteration differences between Sanskrit and English account for the variation in spelling.Cultural SignificanceThe name exemplifies the practice of naming children after concepts central to Hindu spiritual life. Puja as a given name connects the bearer to a long tradition of ritual worship and is often chosen for its auspicious and virtuous connotations.Meaning: worship, honourOrigin: SanskritType: First nameUsage: Bengali, Nepali, Punjabi, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Tamil, TeluguVariants: Pooja