Baby names by Nakshatra, explained
If you have been told your baby's name should start with a certain letter, this is where that letter comes from. This guide explains it in plain words. It describes a tradition. It does not predict anything about your child.
What is a Nakshatra?
In Indian astronomy the sky around the Moon's path is divided into 27 equal parts. Each part is called a Nakshatra, which is often translated as a lunar mansion or a star. Ashwini, Bharani, Rohini and Swati are some of them.
The Moon is in one Nakshatra at any moment. The Nakshatra the Moon was in when the baby was born is called the birth Nakshatra, or Janma Nakshatra.
What is a Pada?
Each Nakshatra is divided into four equal quarters. Each quarter is a Pada. That gives 27 times 4, which is 108 Padas in all.
Every Pada has a starting sound, also called a syllable. For example, Ashwini has the sounds Chu, Che, Cho and La. A baby born in the first Pada of Ashwini is traditionally given a name that starts with Chu.
How do families use this for naming?
Many Telugu and other South Indian families look at the birth Nakshatra and Pada and choose a name that begins with that sound. The name used in the naming ceremony is often chosen this way. The everyday name can be different.
Some families follow this closely, some partly and some not at all. Different almanacs can also list slightly different sounds for a few Padas. If your family has its own practice, follow your elders or your priest.
How to find your baby's Nakshatra and Pada
You need the date, time and place of birth. The Moon moves quickly, so the exact time matters.
- Use the AAGO Nakshatra finder with the birth time and place.
- Expecting? The due date calculator shows which Nakshatra the Moon is in on each day around your due date.
- Or ask your family priest, who will use a printed almanac (Panchangam).
From the Pada to the Rashi
Each Pada also belongs to one of the 12 Rashis, which are the Moon signs. Nine Padas make one Rashi. Your baby's Rashi is the sign the Moon was in at birth. It is different from the Western Sun sign.
Some sounds are hard to use
A few Pada sounds are rare at the start of a name, such as Jha, Nya, Kha and some hard consonants. Families usually look for a name that starts with a close sound, or pick the closest letter their priest suggests. AAGO notes which Padas have few names.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the Nakshatra the same as the zodiac sign?
No. The Nakshatra is one of 27 divisions. The Rashi, or Moon sign, is one of 12. Nine Padas make up one Rashi.
What if we don't know the exact birth time?
Use the closest time you have. If the Moon changes Pada close to that time, ask a priest, since the answer could change.
Is this a prediction about my baby?
No. AAGO shows the tradition for choosing a starting letter. It makes no predictions. Please ask your elders or a priest about your family's practice.
More guides
This guide describes common traditions in general terms. It is not religious, legal or medical advice. Customs vary, so please confirm with your elders or priest.