Meaning & History
Shekhar is a masculine given name common in India, derived from Sanskrit śekhara (शेखर), meaning "crest, crown, peak". The name metaphorically suggests someone who is supreme or excellent, often used as a title for a leader or a respected person.
Etymology and Meanings
The root śekhara in Sanskrit refers to a crest or crown, such as the peak of a mountain or the head ornament of a deity. In Indian traditions, it is an epithet for Shiva, the god with the crescent moon on his head, and for snakes that adorn Shiva's neck. The name thus carries connotations of eminence and divinity.
Variants and Related Names
In South India, the name appears as Sekhar (Telugu) and Sekar (Tamil), both retaining the original meaning. These phonetic adaptations reflect regional pronunciation changes. The name is also associated with the Sanskrit word śekhara as a suffix in compound names like Nagashekhara or Shivshekhar, indicating "crest of the snake" or "crown of Shiva".
Cultural and Notable Bearers
Shekhar is a popular given name across Hindi, Punjabi, Gujarati, and Marathi communities. Notable individuals include Shekhar Kapur, an acclaimed Indian film director known for Mr. India and Elizabeth; and Shekhar Gurera, a prominent Indian cartoonist. In Sikhism, the name is adopted as a first name without religious ties, appreciated for its dignified meaning.
- Meaning: Crest, crown, peak
- Origin: Sanskrit
- Type: First name
- Usage Regions: Hindi, Punjabi, Gujarati, Marathi; also Telugu and Tamil (as Sekhar/Sekar)