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120+ Indian Cat Names {and Their Meanings!}

Choosing the perfect name for your feline companion is an exciting task–you want the name to be easy to remember (for you and your cat!), but also descriptive of your cat’s personality and perhaps even your own interests. If, like us, you’ve loved traveling in India, you just might want to consider Indian cat names for your new kitten.

In this post, we will delve into names derived from the rich cultural heritage of India and explore a variety of naming options inspired by Hindu mythology, Bollywood, Indian food and more. From traditional names rooted in ancient legends to modern names that reflect the vibrancy of Indian culture, we have curated a diverse list that may give you just the purrfect name for your new fur baby!

Indian names for cats

Cat Names inspired by Hindu Mythology

Arjuna – Meaning “bright” or “shining,” Arjuna was a warrior prince and the protagonist of the epic Mahabharata.

Bhavani – Derived from the goddess Parvati, Bhavani means “the giver of life” and represents divine feminine energy.

Chandra – Meaning “moon,” Chandra is associated with the moon god in Hindu mythology.

Durga – Representing the fierce form of the goddess Parvati, Durga means “the invincible” and symbolizes feminine power.

Eka – Eka refers to Lord Shiva, representing the concept of oneness or the ultimate reality.

Ganesha: Ganesha is known as the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom.

Ganesha – The popular deity with the head of an elephant, Ganesha is known as the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom.

Hanuman – The loyal monkey god known for his strength and devotion, Hanuman is a symbol of courage and faithfulness.

Indra – Indra is the king of gods in Hindu mythology and represents strength, leadership, and thunder.

Jaya – Meaning “victory,” Jaya is a name associated with success and triumph.

Krishna – The playful and charming deity, Krishna is considered the incarnation of Lord Vishnu and signifies love and joy.

Lakshmi – The goddess of wealth, prosperity, and fortune, Lakshmi brings good luck and abundance.

Mohini – Mohini is the enchantress form of Lord Vishnu and signifies beauty, grace, and allure.

Nandi – The faithful bull and vehicle of Lord Shiva, Nandi represents loyalty and devotion.

Omkar – Derived from the sacred sound “Om,” Omkar symbolizes the essence of the universe and spiritual awakening.

Parvati – The goddess of love, fertility, and devotion, Parvati embodies feminine strength and compassion.

Quasar – While not specifically from Hindu mythology, Quasar represents a cosmic phenomenon associated with the celestial realm.

Rama – The hero of the epic Ramayana, Rama signifies righteousness, valor, and the triumph of good over evil.

Saraswati – The goddess of knowledge, music, and arts, Saraswati is associated with creativity, wisdom, and learning.

Trishna – Meaning “desire” or “thirst,” Trishna represents the longing for spiritual fulfillment and enlightenment.

Usha – Usha is the goddess of dawn, symbolizing new beginnings, hope, and the breaking of darkness.

Vishnu – The preserver of the universe, Vishnu embodies harmony, protection, and the preservation of cosmic order.

Wali – Wali is a name associated with Lord Rama and signifies friendship, loyalty, and devotion.

Yama – Yama is the god of death and justice, representing the cycle of life and the ultimate truth.

Zara – Meaning “princess” or “radiance,” Zara is a name that can be associated with a divine and regal presence.

Geographic Names from India

Agra: Named after the city of the Taj Mahal, this name evokes grandeur and beauty.

Bombay: The name “Bombay,” the former name of the city of Mumbai, evokes a sense of energy, a cosmopolitan spirit and entertainment industry. (The beautiful Bombay Cat is actually named for Indian leopards, not the city itself.)

Chennai: Named after the vibrant capital city of Tamil Nadu, this name symbolizes energy and cultural richness.

Darjeeling: Inspired by the scenic hill station known for its tea plantations, this name reflects serenity and natural beauty.

Delhi: Delhi, the capital city of India, symbolizes a dynamic and bustling nature, perfect for a busy kitten!

Ellora: Named after the UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient rock-cut temples, this name signifies history and mystique.

Goa: Named after the popular beach destination, this name captures a sense of relaxation and adventure.

Hampi: Inspired by the ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire, this name represents a blend of history and artistic grandeur.

Jaipur: Named after the “Pink City” in Rajasthan, this name signifies royalty and vibrant culture. Kerala: Inspired by the southwestern state known for its backwaters and lush landscapes, this name embodies natural beauty and tranquility.

Ladakh: Named after the breathtaking region in the Himalayas, this name conveys a sense of adventure and ruggedness.

Mumbai: The name “Mumbai” is derived from the Marathi word “Mumbā,” which is believed to be a combination of the words “Maha” (meaning great) and “Aamba” (meaning mother).

authors in front of Taj Mahal
We had a wonderful visit to the Taj Mahal on assignment for a travel magazine.

Taj Mahal: Named after the world-famous monument of love, this name embodies elegance and eternal beauty.

Udaipur: Inspired by the “City of Lakes” in Rajasthan, this name signifies royal splendor and romantic charm.

Varanasi: Named after the spiritual capital of India, this name represents ancient traditions and mysticism.

Zanskar: Inspired by the remote region in Jammu and Kashmir, this name signifies adventure and untouched beauty.

Bollywood Inspired Names

Bollywood
Bollywood’s influence is seen throughout India. On our visit to Mumbai, we went to a Bollywood movie (even though we didn’t understand a word!)

Anushka – Inspired by Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma, this name exudes grace and elegance.

Bolly – A playful and lively name that pays homage to the vibrant world of Bollywood.

Chulbul – Named after the beloved character Chulbul Pandey played by Salman Khan in the movie Dabangg, this name represents charisma and mischief.

Ekta – A name inspired by Bollywood producer Ekta Kapoor, known for her successful TV shows and films, symbolizing creativity and innovation.

Fawad – Named after the Pakistani heartthrob Fawad Khan, this name signifies dashing looks and charm.

Ishq – Meaning “love” in Hindi, this name captures the essence of romance and passion portrayed in Bollywood movies.

Jaya – Inspired by Bollywood icon Jaya Bachchan, this name symbolizes strength and grace.

Kareena – Named after the popular actress Kareena Kapoor Khan, this name signifies beauty and confidence.

Lagaan – Inspired by the iconic Bollywood film Lagaan, this name embodies determination and triumph against all odds.

Madhuri – Named after the legendary actress Madhuri Dixit, this name reflects grace, elegance, and timeless beauty.

Naina – Derived from the song “Naina” from the movie Dangal, this girl’s name represents deep and expressive eyes.

Omkara – Inspired by the film Omkara, this name symbolizes power, intensity, and drama. P. Priyanka – Named after the globally renowned actress Priyanka Chopra, this name represents success, talent, and ambition.

Queenie – Inspired by the character “Queen” played by Kangana Ranaut, this name signifies strength, independence, and resilience.

Raj – Derived from the iconic character Raj played by Shah Rukh Khan, this name portrays charm, romance, and charisma.

Urmila – Named after the versatile actress Urmila Matondkar, this name signifies beauty and talent. Urmila means enchantress–a good name for the cat who has you under her spell.

Varun – Inspired by the charismatic actor Varun Dhawan, this name denotes energy, enthusiasm, and charm. Varun means “water god” and was derived from the name Varuna.

Waqt – Meaning “time” in Hindi, this name captures the fleeting and precious nature of moments, as portrayed in Bollywood cinema.

Xara – A unique and captivating name inspired by the glamour and glitz of Bollywood.

Yash – Named after the esteemed filmmaker Yash Chopra, this name represents creativity, vision, and cinematic brilliance.

Zoya – Inspired by the talented filmmaker Zoya Akhtar, this name signifies creativity, storytelling, and contemporary cinema.

Cat Names Inspired by Indian Food and Drink

Amrak – Derived from “amrak” meaning mango, this name captures the sweetness and vibrancy of this popular fruit. A fun name for an orange cat!

Biryani – Named after the aromatic and flavorful rice dish, this name reflects richness and indulgence.

Chai – Inspired by the beloved Indian tea, this name represents warmth and comfort.

Dosa – Named after the popular South Indian savory crepe, this name conveys uniqueness and versatility.

Gulab – Meaning rose, this name symbolizes beauty and elegance.

Jalebi – Inspired by the sweet, spiral-shaped dessert, this name is perfect for a playful and energetic cat.

Kheer – Named after the traditional Indian rice pudding, this name exudes sweetness and tradition.

Lassi – Inspired by the refreshing yogurt-based drink, this name signifies coolness and freshness.

Masala – This name, inspired by the blend of spices used in Indian cuisine, represents zest and flavor.

Naan – Named after the soft and fluffy Indian bread, this name is suitable for a cat who brings warmth and comfort.

Pani – Derived from “pani” meaning water, this name is inspired by the tangy and refreshing “pani puri” street snack.

Papad – Named after the crispy and thin lentil crackers, this name is ideal for a cat with a playful and crunchy demeanor.

Paneer – Inspired by the versatile Indian cottage cheese, this name represents softness and adaptability.

Saffron – Inspired by the precious spice, this name signifies elegance, richness, and uniqueness.

Samosa – Inspired by the popular savory pastry, this name is perfect for a cat with a playful personality.

Tikka – This name, inspired by the flavorful grilled meat dish, conveys strength and spiciness.

Turmeric – Named after the vibrant yellow spice, this name symbolizes energy and liveliness.

Upma – This name, inspired by the savory semolina dish, is suitable for a cat with a hearty and comforting presence.

Vada – Named after the deep-fried lentil fritters, this name is perfect for a cat with a crisp and lively personality.

Xacuti – A spicy curry dish from Goa, this name is unique and reflects boldness and adventure.

Zarda – Inspired by the sweet and colorful rice dish, this name conveys a vibrant and playful nature.

Female Indian Cat Names and Their Meanings

Anika – Meaning “grace” or “sweet-faced,” Anika is a name that signifies elegance and charm.

Bhavya – Derived from the Sanskrit word meaning “splendid” or “grand,” Bhavya represents beauty and magnificence.

Chitra – Meaning “picture” or “painting,” Chitra symbolizes creativity and artistic expression.

Diya – This name means “lamp” or “light,” representing illumination, knowledge, and positivity.

Falguni – Derived from the month of “Falgun” in the Hindu calendar, Falguni signifies beauty and auspiciousness.

Gauri – Named after the goddess Gauri, this name represents purity, grace, and femininity.

Hina – Meaning “fragrance” or “myrtle,” Hina represents beauty and pleasantness.

Ishita – Derived from the Sanskrit word meaning “desired” or “supreme,” Ishita signifies power and determination.

Jyoti – This name means “light” or “flame,” symbolizing brightness, wisdom, and inner radiance.

Kamala – Named after the lotus flower, Kamala represents beauty, purity, and spiritual enlightenment.

Lata – Meaning “creeper” or “vine,” Lata signifies gracefulness, flexibility, and growth.

Nisha – Derived from the Sanskrit word meaning “night,” Nisha represents the beauty and mystery of the night.

Pooja – This name means “worship” or “ritual,” symbolizing devotion and reverence.

Radha – Named after Lord Krishna’s beloved, Radha signifies devotion, love, and purity of heart.

Sanya – Meaning “distinguished” or “praise-worthy,” Sanya represents individuality and uniqueness.

Rani – This name means “queen” and signifies strength, and leadership.

Sita – Named after the central female character in the epic Ramayana, Sita represents virtue, loyalty, and resilience.

Trisha – Derived from the Sanskrit word meaning “thirst” or “desire,” Trisha signifies ambition and determination, an appropriate name for a determined kitty!

Uma – Named after the goddess Uma (Parvati), this name represents tranquility, beauty, and divine femininity.

Yogita – Derived from the Sanskrit word meaning “one who can concentrate,” Yogita represents focus, discipline, and inner strength.

Yamini – Meaning “night” or “nocturnal,” Yamini symbolizes the beauty and mystique of the nighttime.

Zoya – This name means “life” or “alive,” signifying vitality, energy, and liveliness.

Male Indian Cat Names and Their Meanings

Aditya – Meaning “sun” or “son of Aditi,” Aditya signifies brightness, power, and eternal light.

Arjun – Named after the hero of the epic Mahabharata, Arjun represents courage, valor, and strength.

Arnav – Meaning “ocean” or “sea,” Arnav represents vastness, depth, and a sense of calmness.

Aryan – This name signifies “noble” or “honorable” and is associated with ancient Indian culture and heritage.

Dev – Meaning “god” or “divine,” Dev represents devotion, spirituality, and the belief in a higher power.

Kabir – Named after the famous poet-saint Kabir, this name signifies wisdom, spirituality, and enlightenment.

Kunal – Meaning “lotus” or “one with beautiful eyes,” Kunal symbolizes purity, grace, and aesthetic beauty.

Mohan – Derived from the name of Lord Krishna, Mohan represents charm, attractiveness, and divine love.

Naveen – This name means “new” or “fresh” and signifies novelty, innovation, and a youthful spirit.

Pranav – Meaning “sacred syllable” or “primordial sound,” Pranav represents the essence of the universe and spiritual connection.

Rahul – Named after the son of Lord Buddha, Rahul symbolizes humility, compassion, and enlightenment. “Moon” in Sanskrit.

Rajiv – Meaning “lotus” or “kingly,” Rajiv represents regality, elegance, and grace.

Siddharth – Derived from Sanskrit, Siddharth means “one who has attained enlightenment” and is associated with Lord Buddha.

Varun – Named after the god of water, Varun represents fluidity, adaptability, and emotional depth.

Vihaan – Meaning “dawn” or “morning,” Vihaan signifies the beginning of a new day, energy, and vitality.

Yash – This name means “success” or “fame” and represents achievement, glory, and recognition.

Virat – Named after the Sanskrit word for “giant” or “colossal,” Virat signifies strength, power, and magnificence.

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