चाणक्य

Chanakya

boySanskritHindu

Chanakya is a Hindu boy name of Sanskrit origin, meaning “Son of Chanaka; the great strategist”.

MeaningSon of Chanaka; the great strategist
GenderBoy
OriginSanskrit
Written asचाणक्य
Pronunciationchaa-NUK-yah
TraditionHindu
Used inIndia

Meaning and origin of Chanakya

Chanakya is the name of the ancient Indian teacher and statesman, traditionally identified with Kautilya, author of the Arthashastra, a treatise on statecraft. He is said to have guided Chandragupta Maurya to found the Maurya Empire in the fourth century BCE. The name is a patronymic meaning 'son of Chanaka'. Parents choose it for its connection with intelligence and strategy.

Is Chanakya a Hindu name?

Chanakya is a historical name honoured in Hindu tradition for wisdom and statecraft rather than divinity.

How popular is Chanakya?

An uncommon but recognised name in India.

Gifts with the name Chanakya

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Spellings and variants of Chanakya

KautilyaChanakyaa

Names similar to Chanakya

ChandraguptaVidurArjunVikram

More Hindu boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Chanakya mean?

Chanakya means 'Son of Chanaka; the great strategist'. It is of Sanskrit origin.

Is Chanakya a Hindu name?

Chanakya is a historical name honoured in Hindu tradition for wisdom and statecraft rather than divinity.

How do you pronounce Chanakya?

Chanakya is pronounced chaa-NUK-yah.

Is Chanakya a boy or girl name?

Chanakya is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.