Channa

boyPaliBuddhist

Channa is a Buddhist boy name of Pali origin, meaning “Name of the Buddha's charioteer”.

MeaningName of the Buddha's charioteer
GenderBoy
OriginPali
PronunciationCHUN-nah
TraditionBuddhist
Used inSri Lanka

Meaning and origin of Channa

Channa (Sanskrit Chandaka) was the charioteer and companion of Prince Siddhartha. According to the traditional accounts, he drove the prince past the old man, sick man, corpse and wandering ascetic that prompted his search, and later helped him leave the palace on the horse Kanthaka. Channa afterwards became a monk known for his pride, and the texts record his eventual humility and awakening. The literal sense of the name is debated.

Is Channa a Buddhist name?

Channa is a Buddhist name drawn directly from the life story of the Buddha. It is particularly familiar in Sri Lanka, where Pali names are widely given.

How popular is Channa?

Used mainly in Sri Lanka among Sinhala Buddhist families; uncommon elsewhere.

Gifts with the name Channa

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Spellings and variants of Channa

ChandakaChana

Names similar to Channa

More Buddhist boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Channa mean?

Channa means 'Name of the Buddha's charioteer'. It is of Pali origin.

Is Channa a Buddhist name?

Channa is a Buddhist name drawn directly from the life story of the Buddha. It is particularly familiar in Sri Lanka, where Pali names are widely given.

How do you pronounce Channa?

Channa is pronounced CHUN-nah.

Is Channa a boy or girl name?

Channa is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.