Meaning & History
Shridevi is a Hindu feminine given name derived from the name of the goddess Shri combined with the Sanskrit word devī meaning "goddess". Thus, Shridevi means "goddess Shri" and is understood as another name for the goddess Lakshmi, the consort of Vishnu, who is revered as the deity of prosperity, good fortune, and beauty.
Etymology
The name Shridevi merges two divine elements: Shri, from Sanskrit, denotes diffusing light, radiance, or beauty and serves as a respectful title in Hindu tradition, and devi, the feminine of deva, meaning "goddess" or "shining one". The expanded compound highlights the goddess's supreme divine feminine aspect often celebrated as Lakshmi.
Notable Bearers
The best-known individual with this name is the late Indian actress Sridevi (1963–2018), a legendary figure who became the undisputed star of Bollywood and South Indian cinema, widely hailed as the "first female superstar." Additionally, the name appears in Telugu-speaking regions in forms like Sridevi and frequently turns up in honorific and given names across Tamil.
Cultural and Religious Significance
Shri is integral to worship and paean as a sacred syllable preceding sacred texts, scriptures, and names, symbolizing propitious and benevolent consecration. Combined with Devi, Shridevi manifests feminine bounty intertwined with preserving sustenance—very much the persona of Lakshmi who not only blesses humanity but bonds profoundly with Vishnu across many scriptures as she works to accomplish elemental duties together.
- Meaning: Goddess Shri
- Origin: Sanskrit
- Type: Feminine given name
- Usage: Hindu, especially across southern India
- In mythology/form: Epithet for Lakshmi/Tiru Alu Sitasim Garungusim Lakshmi Sundari Devi of Prosperity to love wife - Shramnya Abadevi honor rest.